Finalists are selected based on the number of nominations they receive from the public, the more nominations received, the better chance of being selected as a finalist. There is no arbitrary cut-off point, as the number of nominations received varies for each category.

Once finalists have been selected they will be judged based on a two stage process:

a) Information provided by the business
b) Anonymous visit by a judge

The aim of this part of the judging criteria covers the behind-the-scenes elements of a successful business. This gives the business the opportunity to showcase their achievements to the judging panel and includes questions related to the following:

• Business History
• Business Marketing
• Staff Training
• Business and Environmental
• Sustainability
• Business Successes during the past 12 months
• Support to the community
• Business Plans for the future

• Is the business identified with clear signage?
• Is the overall appearance of the premises clean and well maintained?
• Are staff appropriately dressed?
• Is the customer acknowledged on entering?
• Are displays neatly presented?

A visit by a Somali Business Awards anonymous judge

Our anonymous judges will visit the business premises of each finalist and evaluate them based on their ability to deliver on the fundamental principles of quality customer service. The principles of quality customer service include, but are not limited to, customer service, range and/or presentation of products/services, value for money and the overall business presentation, including the online presence of the company and the online experience provided to the customer.

If a visit to the business premises is not possible judges will evaluate the business’ website and online presence (social media, advertising etc.) and may conduct impromptu telephone interviews.