As the annual PA Life Star Awards draw closer, it’s a good time to consider who you could nominate – or even enter yourself. If you have never done this before you may be unsure what to include in a nomination to ensure the best possible outcome.
The process for PA Life Star Awards 2026 nominations is quick and simple, but it’s worth keeping the following advice in mind when completing the entry form. We also ask for testimonials from your exec, boss or senior colleagues – these are important in supporting the nomination.
Our panel of judges will have the final say. All finalists are also invited for a short interview over a video call.
📅 Entries close at midnight on 18 September 2026.
Whether you’re nominating yourself or a colleague, the strongest award entries tell a compelling story backed up by evidence. Judges are looking for impact, not just a list of responsibilities.
Here are some top tips for creating a standout PA or EA award nomination:
1. Answer the criteria directly
Read the award criteria carefully and structure your nomination around them. Make it easy for judges to see how the nominee meets each requirement.
2. Focus on impact, not duties
Instead of listing everyday tasks, explain the difference the nominee has made.
Rather than:
“Manages complex diaries.”
Try:
“Redesigned executive diary management, reducing scheduling conflicts by 40% and creating an additional six hours of executive time each week.”
3. Include measurable results
Numbers bring achievements to life. Include examples such as:
- Cost savings
- Time saved
- Money raised
- Event attendance
- Project delivery
- Employee engagement scores
- Process improvements
4. Tell a story
Great nominations read like a story rather than a CV. Explain:
- The challenge
- The actions taken
- The outcome
- Why it mattered
5. Include examples from the past 12 months
Judges want recent achievements. Focus on what the nominee has accomplished during the award period.
6. Showcase initiative
Highlight occasions where the nominee:
- Solved a difficult problem
- Introduced a new process
- Took ownership without being asked
- Improved efficiency
- Led a project
7. Demonstrate influence
Today’s EAs and PAs are strategic partners. Explain how the nominee has influenced:
- Senior leadership
- Company culture
- Business decisions
- Team performance
8. Show resilience and adaptability
The profession demands flexibility. Include examples of:
- Managing change
- Supporting business growth
- Handling crises
- Delivering under pressure
9. Use testimonials
Short quotes from executives, colleagues or clients can reinforce the nomination.
For example:
“I trust them implicitly to make decisions that keep the business moving.”
🌟Here are quotes from some of our recent PA Life Star Awards winners on what an award means to them:
“I’m truly honoured to receive this award and thankful to PA Life for acknowledging my contributions. It means a great deal to me to be able to support others as they explore their career journeys.” – Claudine Martin, Senior EA at BNY Pershing
“It means a great deal; it validates the passion and commitment I put into supporting my executive and organisation. It is a nice reminder that the work EAs do matters, and I am proud to help shine a light on the profession.” – Caroline Barnard Executive Assistant at Cambridge University Press & Assessment
“Winning the award gave me confidence that the work we do is making a real impact. It has increased awareness of PLM, opened doors to new opportunities and strengthened credibility with prospective clients. Most importantly, it highlighted the value that skilled VAs bring to businesses and individuals.” – Hayley Taylor, VA and founder of Peak Lifestyle Management and Tihi Travel
10. Highlight qualities that can’t be taught
Technical skills matter, but so do attributes such as:
- Emotional intelligence
- Leadership
- Discretion
- Professionalism
- Creativity
- Relationship building
11. Don’t assume judges know your organisation
Briefly explain the business context, especially if achievements may not be obvious to someone outside your industry.
12. Avoid jargon and acronyms
Keep the language clear and accessible.
13. Be specific
Statements like “always goes above and beyond” are common. Back them up with real examples.
14. Include evidence of continuous development
Mention professional qualifications, mentoring, networking, volunteering or skills development where relevant.
15. Finish with a memorable summary
End with a strong statement explaining why this person deserves to win over every other nominee.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Listing responsibilities instead of achievements.
- Making vague claims without evidence.
- Using too many superlatives (“amazing”, “fantastic”, “the best”) without proof.
- Ignoring the judging criteria.
- Submitting at the last minute without proofreading.
- Writing in the first person when nominating someone else.
What judges really want to know
By the end of your nomination, a judge should be able to answer these three questions:
- What did this person do that’s exceptional?
- What difference did it make to the executive, team or organisation?
- Why does this achievement make them worthy of the award?
A concise, evidence-based nomination that clearly demonstrates measurable impact will almost always stand out more than one filled with generic praise.
