The HFPA determines the winners through a secret ballot, in which each member may vote for one nominated film or television show in each category. Only current members of the HFPA may vote, and they are required to have seen all of the nominated films and television shows in order to cast a valid vote.
The Golden Globe Awards are not based solely on critical acclaim or box office success; instead, the HFPA considers a variety of factors when making their selections, including the overall quality of the film or television show, the performances of the cast and crew, and the social or cultural impact of the work.
The results of the voting are tabulated by Ernst & Young, a global accounting firm, and the winners are announced at the Golden Globe Awards ceremony, which is typically held in early January.