Recognition Is Great — Results Matter More
Awards and rankings can validate great work, but they’re not the true measure of an agency’s value. What matters most is whether strategy translates into real-world business results—stronger positioning, higher retention, accelerated growth, and brands that outperform their competitors. Recognition is a bonus; impact is the goal.
By David Kippen, PhD | CEO, Evviva Brands
Awards and rankings are nice. Being named a “Clutch Champion” and ranking in the top 10 % of global agencies is a point of pride for our team. But accolades only mean something if they reflect real client outcomes. Our focus is on the latter.
What matters is whether a new positioning helped a challenger brand outrun incumbents, whether an employer‑brand program boosted retention or whether a naming strategy unlocked a new product category. External reviews help keep us honest and are a signal of trust for new clients. But we treat them as by‑products, not goals.
The learning here is simple: don’t confuse reputation with capability. Ask your partners to show the connection between their work and business impact. Look at long‑term relationships, repeat engagements and client satisfaction. And expect your agency to celebrate success quietly and own mistakes openly. Humility is a competitive advantage.
