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The Deloitte Technology Fast 50, now in its eighth year in Ireland, is an awards programme  honouring business growth, technological innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. 

Sponsored by The Irish Times, the programme ranks the fastest-growing technology companies in Ireland.

Applications for the 2007 Deloitte fast 50 awards is now open - the closing date for nominations is September 3, 2007. And what’s even better is that unlike many awards today, there is no cost for entering or nominating an entry.

For more details on the background and entry requirements read the Deloitte Fast 50 FAQ’s.

If you are or know of a business in technology then I highly recommend you consider entering the Deloitte Fast 50 – entering for awards is not just about the winning.

Here are five benefits you can realise from entering for awards:

• it ups your game – by entering for awards you have the opportunity to stop and reflect on the actions you have taken and what areas you can improve against. So often we are busy with the here and now we don’t get a chance to stand back from the business and reflect on what strategies are proving the most successful
• it can build your employer brand – with the ever increasing challenging market for great people, being an award winner can help you attract the best of the best. When you were on your way up the corporate ladder didn’t you aspire to work for leading edge companies?
• it can enhance your personal brand – as the leader of the organisation, being cited as a finalist or even the winner of an award will enhance your personal reputation and lead to greater professional and personal success
• it can build your corporate brand - entering for an award if you are in the short list will ensure that you get profiled by the media – just think all that free PR! That alone will help you enhance your profile and potentially lead to more clients and strategic joint ventures
• it encourages you to celebrate success – all to often it is easy to forget the challenges we face on the road to success. Taking time out to reflect and celebrate success with your team will ensure that your people feel recognised and valued for their contribution to your success.

So head on over to check out the entry requirements for the Deloitte Fast 50, 2007 – and be sure to let me know if you are in the finalists won’t you!