PayrollOrg's Chapter of the Year (COTY) award is a special recognition that celebrates the hard work and success of local chapters within the organization. This contest allows chapters of all sizes to showcase their achievements, share their stories, and inspire others with their dedication to the payroll profession. This prestigious recognition goes beyond simply identifying the top local chapter; it serves as a platform for all chapters, regardless of size, to showcase their successes, innovation, and dedication to the payroll profession. The COTY contest is not just about winning—it's about inspiring growth, sharing best practices, and contributing to the collective advancement of the payroll community.
Why the Chapter of the Year Contest Matters
- Encourages Best Practices and Excellence
The COTY contest provides chapters with the opportunity to reflect on their achievements and share their strategies for success. By highlighting best practices, chapters contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, driving excellence across the entire payroll community. The detailed contest submissions, which include photos, quotes, and comprehensive answers, allow chapters to present well-rounded insights into their activities, inspiring others to adopt innovative approaches.
- Promotes Community Engagement and Collaboration
Participation in the COTY contest encourages chapters to engage with their members and local communities actively. Whether through educational events, government liaison activities, or collaborative projects, chapters that participate in the contest help to strengthen the bonds within the payroll profession. This engagement not only benefits the chapter but also enhances the overall sense of community within PayrollOrg.
- Recognizes Leadership, Innovation, and Creativity
The COTY contest is an excellent platform for chapters to demonstrate their leadership and creativity. In addition to the COTY award, four Gavel Awards are given to chapters that excel in specific areas: Innovator, Mentor, Facilitator, and Communicator. These awards recognize chapters that have successfully implemented new ideas, provided exceptional guidance, facilitated crucial activities, or communicated effectively with their members and communities. This recognition sets a benchmark for others and motivates chapters to continually push the boundaries of what's possible.
- Boosts Chapter Visibility and Growth
Being recognized as a Chapter of the Year or a Gavel Award winner significantly enhances a chapter's visibility within PayrollOrg. This recognition can attract new members, create opportunities for collaboration, and position the chapter as a leader within the organization. Additionally, the Chapters’ Choice Award, which is determined through an anonymous poll on PayrollOrg's Facebook page, allows chapters to gain further recognition through the collective voice of the community.
- Fosters Professional Development and Goal Setting
One of the most valuable aspects of the COTY contest is the opportunity it provides for self-evaluation. As chapters compile their entries, they assess their procedures, accomplishments, and areas for improvement. This process not only highlights their achievements but also helps set clear goals for the future. The focus on professional development ensures that chapters continue to offer valuable training, resources, and networking opportunities to their members, enhancing their skills and careers in payroll.
Conclusion
The PayrollOrg Chapter of the Year contest is much more than a competition—it's a celebration of excellence, leadership, and community within the payroll profession. By participating in the contest, chapters not only showcase their achievements but also contribute to the growth and development of the entire PayrollOrg community. Whether through the main COTY award or the various Gavel Awards, every chapter can inspire others, share their journey, and pave the way for future success. So, if you're part of a chapter, take the leap, share your story, and apply for the Chapter of the Year award today!
Carlanna Livingstone, CPP is PAYO’s Region 3 Board of Advisor. She serves on several PAYO committees including the Social Networking Committee, Strategic Payroll Leadership Task Force (SPLTF) Best Practices Subcommittee, Government Relations Task Force (GRTF) State and Local Topics, GRTF Federal Issues Subcommittee, and Ask an Expert Committee.
Annual Chapter Contest Deadlines
All Chapter of the Year entries are due February 7, 2025. All Chapter Pictorial, Best Chapter Website, and Best Statewide or Regional Meeting entries are due March 7, 2025. See all contest flyers and COTY PPT Template here.
