Send in those Workplace Excellence nods

If you think you clock in at one of the Yuma area's greatest places to work, then nominate your place of employment for one of the Workplace Excellence awards.

The annual contest, organized by the Yuma Sun, is looking for more nominations through this week. Workplace Excellence awards will be given in small, medium and large size categories, in addition to the grand overall prize. There is also a special Inspiring Greatness award for the business that best inspires its employees.

“This is a great opportunity for you to have your workplace recognized as a great place to work,” said Yuma Sun human resources manager Justin Cook.

Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. Friday. They must be submitted online. A panel of independent, out-of-town judges will make the final decisions.

All nominees are recognized at the awards reception, which is attended by more than 250 area business professionals. This year's reception will be on April 17.

Owners, presidents, CEOs and top human resources managers cannot nominate their businesses, but all other employees, including managers, can. Chain businesses are eligible as long as they have a physical location in Yuma. And go ahead and nominate your workplace even if it's been named the overall winner before. It can't win the top prize but it is still eligible to compete within its size category.

Each nominated business will be invited to complete a more in-depth application, allowing judges to review human resources practices and the chief executive officer's statements. Judges are looking at impact of human resources on business strategy, innovation, excellence in implementation, and results. The nominations may also be considered.

Last year's overall winner was Hospice Compassus. The 2010 winner was Desert Veterinary Clinic, while the 2009 winner was Booth Machinery Inc.

Visit www.yumasun.com/sections/contests and click on “Workplace Excellence” to find the nomination form and other contest information. For more information, contact Cook at jcook@yumasun.com or 539-6812.

Hillary Davis can be reached at hdavis@yumasun.com or 539-6857. Find her on Facebook at Facebook.com/YSHillaryDavis or on Twitter at @YSHillaryDavis.