Recognition of Civic Excellence
A Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting a Standout Submission
Since 2003, the National Association of Civic Officers (NACO) has celebrated excellence in civic service through the Civic Office of the Year Award. From large city councils to small town offices with just one part-time officer, The NACO Civic Office of the Year award, honours dedication, innovation, and impact.
Your Civic Office works tirelessly — often behind the scenes. This award is your opportunity to shine a light on your team’s achievements and tell your story with pride.
Before You Begin
- Understand your council’s mission:
Align your submission with the ethos and goals of your corporate plan. - Plan ahead:
Gather evidence, testimonials, and visuals early. - Know the rules:
Submissions must be no more than ten pages, submitted electronically. Anything longer will not be judged. - Read the 3 highlighted (winning) nominations here
Writing Your Submission
1. Stay Focused
Stick to the topic and avoid repetition. Write clearly and concisely. Judges appreciate creativity—include photos, videos, or even audio clips to bring your story to life.
2. Use a Template
Request the the judging criteria template from the NACO Secretary, and use it to structure your submission. This helps ensure you cover all required areas.
3. Be Honest
Avoid exaggeration. Focus on what truly makes your Civic Office stand out. Use strong, truthful language and ensure all facts are accurate.
4. Quantify Your Impact
Use data to support your claims. Include statistics, event outcomes, and lessons learned. Visuals like charts or infographics can make your case even stronger.
5. Edit Thoroughly
Proofread multiple times. Ask a colleague to review your submission—they may catch errors you missed and offer valuable feedback.
6. Submit on Time
Don’t wait until the last minute. Aim to submit a few days before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
(the deadline will be announced in advance)
Final Checklist
✅ Write a clear and compelling introduction
✅ Break your submission into manageable sections
✅ Use bullet points for key messages
✅ Highlight award-worthy accomplishments
✅ Support claims with evidence and testimonials
✅ End with a confident statement about your team’s future
Closing Thoughts
Award submissions can be challenging, but with thoughtful planning and a compelling narrative, your Civic Office can stand out. Let your achievements speak—and let your submission lead the way to recognition.