NOMINEES & FINALISTS & WINNERS

The winner demonstrated a robust focus on employer branding goals and objectives that are tied directly to significant business impacts. Their objective for the project was not just an employer brand marketing goal, but also an indication of the effective use of employer branding as a leadership tool.

The realistic brand value objectives brought tangible short-term business results, such as reducing investment in headhunting. The clear and relevant KPIs further strengthened this strategy. The message was clear and engaging, sparking interest and leaving a strong impression. Their forward-looking approach to their employer branding journey is also praiseworthy.

Photo by Petri Mast

This award celebrates not just engagement but a culture where every employee feels valued, heard, and integral to the company’s narrative. The initiative that captivated us this year did something extraordinary. It wasn’t just about creating buzz; it was about creating a wave – an Orange Wave, to be precise.

This vibrant, catchy campaign rolled through the company, bringing genuine reactions and a flood of video content that painted the workplace in bold, bright strokes of orange. It was like watching a grey canvas come alive with colour, each brushstroke a story of engagement and pride. While the juries admired the campaign’s strategic alignment and creative push, they noted it as a budding garden of potential. It’s a program in its early days, eager to branch out into new waves and embrace an even broader spectrum of diversity. The promise of a lush, vibrant future was undeniable. So, without further ado, it is my great pleasure to present the Engaging Employee Advocacy Initiative Award to a group that has started to change the landscape of employee engagement with creativity and inclusivity.

Photo by Petri Mast

Mehiläinen

The chosen winner in this category, is a positive message of encouragement, for students to choose their future professional path dedicated to taking care of others. And at the same time, it is a joyful celebration of those, who have already chosen to do so, embarking on a lifelong mission. As we all know, the citizens of the world are getting older – some of us sooner and others later. And so, the general need for practical healthcare will be on the increase for decades to come. Despite that, the shortage of healthcare professionals has been an ongoing topic of discussion already for years. And as we know from the news, every employer in the field is facing challenges of how to attract and keep the current workforce.

The messaging and visuals of this campaign treat genders, age groups, ethnicities, and languages with diversity and equity, and so this campaign has reached a wide spectrum of both potential and existing employees. In addition, it’s been able to raise both awareness and interest towards the occupation promoted. And, on top of that, it has increased the amount of people choosing to become one.

Photo by Petri Mast

Sitowise

It is a campaign that has demonstrated the effectiveness of innovative communication in facilitating important organizational changes. The campaign’s strengths lie in its unique and emotionally intelligent approach. The use of humour and empathy to overcome internal resistance to change is simply a brilliant move.

The strategy was notable for its clear articulation of business needs and the creative approach to addressing them. It successfully engaged stakeholders, setting clear objectives and KPIs. The campaign’s creative flair, particularly its humorous take on overcoming resistance to change, has been both inspiring and cost-effective. The potential cost of not transitioning smoothly to the new (ERP) system was wisely averted through this strategic initiative. As we acknowledge the success of this campaign, we also reflect on the valuable lessons it has imparted.

Change can be embraced with creativity and a touch of humour, making the process not just bearable but also enjoyable.

Photo by Petri Mast

Nora Nykänen

Photo by Petri Mast

Reetta Rautkivi

Photo by Petri Mast

Aristotle once said, “Excellence is not an act, but a habit.” As we, the jury, decided on who should receive the Grand Prix trophy this year, we asked ourselves: Which organization has shown us that employer branding is not just a one-time effort but continuous part of their work?

While many candidates stood out, there can only be one winner. The winning organization has consistently demonstrated embedding employer branding into its culture in ways that resonate both within and beyond its walls.

Photo by Petri Mast