Judging of the St George Local Business Awards has started, as hundreds of finalists prepare for a visit from secret judges.
Shops and offices are getting an extra polish on the door handle and staff are putting some extra pizzazz into their smiles, not knowing if the next person to walk through the door will be one of the awards' anonymous judges.
Precedent Productions managing director and awards founder, Steve Loe, said thousands of entries were received for this year's awards.
''We have finished the enormous task of tallying the results and determining this year's finalists,'' he said.
''The anonymous judges will visit each finalist, where they will consider all aspects of their customer service, including greeting and customer acknowledgement, detailed product knowledge and value for money.
''They may also look at other aspects of the business, such as its website.''
Finalists can also submit information about themselves to be considered by the judges including: the history of the business, staff training and motivation, work in the local community and environmental sustainability efforts as well as customer testimonials.
The full list of finalists will soon be available at www.thebusinessawards.com.au.
Mr Loe said the finalists also had another task ahead of them - planning what to wear to the presentation ceremony.
''The awards ceremony is the night of nights on the small business calendar each year,'' he said.
''Finalists tell us how much they and their staff look forward to the evening as an opportunity to enjoy each other's company is a fun, social atmosphere, with great food and entertainment, as well as the excitement and suspense as the winners of each category are announced.
''Once again the awards ceremony will be held at Sharkies Leagues Club.
''It's a great venue, with superb catering and excellent service, so we're thrilled to have them on board again as our venue.'' The awards presentation will be held on Wednesday, May 8.
''Tickets to the event are available and are expected to sell quickly,'' Mr Loe said.
To book tickets call Precedent Productions on 8363 3333 or visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au
