how to write an acceptance speech example

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How to Write an Acceptance Speech

Last Updated: March 21, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham and by wikiHow staff writer, Kyle Hall . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,099,828 times.

When you win an award or honor, it's traditional to share a few words. Writing an acceptance speech can be challenging, so it helps to brainstorm and prepare in advance. You should open your speech with a brief introduction of gratitude, move on to thanking your benefactors, and conclude your speech with some inspiration and optimism. This is your time to shine, but showing humility will leave your audience feeling truly pleased for you and your success.

Brainstorming Ideas

• After you make an initial list of people you want to thank, walk away and come back to the list later. There might be people you forgot to include that you'll remember at a later time.
• If you're worried about leaving someone important out of your speech, ask a close friend or coworker to help with your list. They might think of someone you forgot to include.

• For example, if you're receiving an award for your volunteer work, try searching “volunteer award acceptance speeches” in a search engine. If you're referencing speeches in a physical book, try to find a book that has the speeches organized by award type.

Writing Your Speech

• For example, you could write “I am so honored to be standing here today to receive this community leadership award. Serving my community has been a joy and a privilege that I am grateful for every single day. I wouldn't be able to do it if it weren't for all the amazing people in this city."

• You don't have to say someone's name to show you're thankful for them. For example, instead of thanking all of your coworkers individually, you could say “I can't express enough how grateful I am for all of my amazing colleagues.”
• You can thank the members of the organization giving you the award without listing off their names by saying something like “Thank you so much to the team at the New York Nonprofit Conference for recognizing me with this incredible award.”

• For example, if you're winning an award in recognition of your volunteer work with kids, you could mention how you think more work needs to be done to combat childhood illiteracy.
• Don't use your acceptance speech as a time to rant about your political viewpoints or talk heatedly about a controversial topic (unless it's directly connected to the award you're receiving). You'll likely alienate members of the audience and upset the organization that gave you the award.

Rehearsing Your Speech

• If there's someone mentioned in your speech that can't attend the event, invite them to practice with you. That way they get to hear your speech and you have someone to give you pointers.

• Notice how your voice sounds. Make sure you're speaking loud enough and that what you're saying is clear and understandable.

Writing Help

Community Q&A

• Make eye contact with members of the audience to appear more engaged. [11] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Bring a copy of your speech with you onstage. You might not need to use it, but it's helpful if you forget someone's name. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid reading the copy of speech, but use notes and make sure to look up at the audience more tha you read what you write. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Avoid negative or apologetic statements during your speech. They can make you seem ungrateful. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-prepare-an-accepta_b_9290348
• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.gvsu.edu/ours/oral-presentation-tips-30.htm
• ↑ https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/blog/10-tips-for-improving-your-public-speaking-skills/
• ↑ https://www.washington.edu/doit/presentation-tips-0

About This Article

To write an acceptance speech, start with a brief introduction that expresses your gratitude and makes a connection with your audience. Then, in the body of your speech, focus on the people that you want to thank. Try to avoid thanking too many people so your audience doesn't grow impatient by sticking with the people directly involved with the award and your immediate support system. Finally, conclude your acceptance speech on a brief, positive note and thank the audience one last time. To learn how to rehearse an acceptance speech, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Speech Writing

Acceptance Speech

How to Write the Best Acceptance Speech for Your Audience?

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So, you have achieved an award. Congratulations! Now you have to deliver an acceptance speech in front of an audience.

Writing an acceptance speech may not seem important initially, but it becomes challenging once you begin writing it. 

When you're in the spotlight, receiving an award or recognition, giving a great acceptance speech may seem tough. But with the right approach, it can be a rewarding experience that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

This guide is here to help you craft an outstanding acceptance speech that conveys your gratitude and connects with your audience. 

Whether it's an award, honor, or any form of recognition, these tips will make your speech shine.

So, let’s begin!

• 1. What is an Acceptance Speech?
• 2. How to Write an Acceptance Speech?
• 3. Acceptance Speech Examples 
• 4. Mistakes to Avoid When Writing An Acceptance Speech
• 5. Phrases You Can Use in Acceptance Speech Writing
• 6. Tips for Acceptance Speech Writing

What is an Acceptance Speech?

The main goal of writing the speech is to say thanks to those who've recognized your achievements. 

An acceptance speech is a special occasion speech that gives a chance for the recipient to express gratitude and acknowledge the people for the honor.

It's a way to share your vision with humility, showing appreciation for those who've honored you.

How to Write an Acceptance Speech?

Your words for an acceptance speech for an award should leave a lasting impression on your audience. 

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a memorable acceptance speech:

Immediately Start With a Thank You

Begin your speech by expressing heartfelt thanks to those who have not only supported you but also recognized your achievements. This sets a positive and appreciative tone from the very beginning, showing your gratitude for the honor.

Discuss the Organization

Take a moment to reflect on the significance of the organization that is presenting the award. Explain how this organization contributes to the community or field, and why their recognition is valuable.

Recognize Supportive People

Acknowledge the people who have played essential roles in your journey to success. This includes family members, friends, mentors, and anyone else who has provided guidance, support, or inspiration along the way.

Include Humor in Your Speech

Injecting humor into your speech can be a great way to engage your audience and make your speech more enjoyable. You can pick an entertaining speech topic to include in your speech. 

End With Impact

The conclusion of your speech is a crucial part where you can leave a lasting impression on your audience. Conclude with a statement, quote, or message that makes your speech memorable and thought-provoking.

Express Gratitude

Finally, reiterate your appreciation for the organization that presented the award and for the audience that has listened to your speech. Convey your thanks with sincerity and humility.

By considering the above-mentioned elements in your acceptance speech, you can create a memorable address that resonates with your audience and expresses your gratitude. 

Acceptance Speech Examples 

Here are some excellent speech examples for students and working professionals:

Acceptance Speech Sample

Award Acceptance Speech

Scholarship Acceptance Speech

Jennifer Coolidge Acceptance Speech

Brendan Fraser Acceptance Speech

Austin Butler Acceptance Speech

Ke Huy Quan's Acceptance Speech

Sheryl Lee Ralph's Acceptance Speech

Jamie Lee Curtis Acceptance Speech

Michelle Yeoh Acceptance Speech

Harry Styles's Acceptance Speech

Lizzo Acceptance Speech

Acceptance Speech as President of An Organization

Acceptance Speech for a Leadership Position

It is recommended to look at additional speech examples to have a better understanding of writing a speech. 

Mistakes to Avoid When Writing An Acceptance Speech

Here are some things you should avoid when writing your acceptance speech:

• Overwhelming Thank-Yous: While expressing gratitude is crucial, don't overdo it by individually thanking every person you've ever met. Keep it concise and focus on key supporters.
• Lack of Structure: Avoid a disorganized or lengthy speech. Structure your speech with a clear beginning, middle, and end to maintain your audience's attention.
• Being Negative: Stay positive and avoid any negative remarks or criticisms, whether related to the award or other aspects. Maintain a gracious and optimistic tone.
• Overusing Jargon: Use language that your audience can easily understand. Avoid excessive use of technical terms or industry-specific jargon.
• Inappropriate Humor: Humor is excellent if used appropriately, but steer clear of offensive or overly sarcastic jokes that might alienate your audience.
• Not Rehearsing: Practice your speech before the event. Avoid reading it for the first time on stage, which can lead to stumbling or a lack of engagement.

Phrases You Can Use in Acceptance Speech Writing

Here are some useful phrases you can use in your speech:

• I am deeply honored to accept this award for...
• I share this recognition with...
• I stand here today with a profound sense of gratitude for...
• I want to express my heartfelt thanks to...
• This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of...
• I couldn't have achieved this without the unwavering support of...
• This honor means the world to me, and it is a reflection of the incredible team I've had the privilege to work with.
• I accept this award on behalf of all those who believed in our vision.
• This recognition serves as a reminder that dreams can come true with perseverance and the support of loved ones.
• As I stand here, I am humbled by the collective effort of our team.
• I am excited to see where this award will take us in the future.
• This honor encourages us to continue our mission and make an even greater impact.
• I would like to acknowledge the outstanding work of my colleagues, who have been instrumental in our success.
• It is not just my award; it's a celebration of our shared dedication and hard work.
• Whether speaking to a few or many, your words can inspire and connect with those who respect your accomplishments.
• I am deeply grateful for the opportunities this award brings, and I pledge to use them to make a positive difference.

You can use these phrases in your acceptance speech.

Tips for Acceptance Speech Writing

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind while crafting your acceptance speech. 

• Start Early: Begin your speech preparations well in advance to allow time for thoughtful reflection and revisions.
• Maintain a Respectful Tone: Use polite and respectful language throughout your speech to show gratitude and appreciation.
• Keep It Brief: Acceptance speeches are typically short, so aim to be concise and to the point.
• Adapt to the Occasion: Tailor your speech to the formality and theme of the event.
• Create an Outline: Develop an outline to help you organize your speech effectively and ensure all key points are included.
• Understand Special Requirements: Inquire about any specific requirements or guidelines set by the hosting organization.
• Seek Inspiration: Study and learn from exceptional acceptance speeches online to gather ideas and insights.
• Edit and Proofread: Carefully review and edit your speech, and consider seeking input from others to refine your content.

So there you have it!

Your acceptance speech is your opportunity to shine and express your gratitude. With these guidelines and tips, you can craft an acceptance speech that resonates with your audience and leaves a lasting impact. 

Whether you're addressing a small gathering or a large audience, your words can inspire and connect with those who have chosen to honor your achievements.

Nonetheless, being a good speaker doesn't always translate to being a good writer. That's why many opt for expert assistance from professional writers.

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Written Samples

10 short acceptance speech samples.

An acceptance speech is more than a mere formality following an award or honor. It’s a unique opportunity to express gratitude, share values, and inspire others, all while acknowledging the collective effort that led to the individual achievement.

The speeches compiled here represent a range of scenarios — from industry awards to community honors, and personal achievements.

Short Acceptance Speech Samples

Each is crafted to not only express thanks but to resonate with the audience, leaving a lasting impression of the occasion and the individual honored.

Speech 1: Accepting a Lifetime Achievement Award

“a journey of persistence and passion”.

As I stand before this distinguished gathering, my heart swells with gratitude. This Lifetime Achievement Award is not just a recognition of my individual efforts but a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance and dedication. I remember starting out in this field, fueled by nothing but a dream and an unwavering resolve. Today, as I look back at the decades of challenges and triumphs, I am reminded of the countless individuals who supported me — my mentors who believed in me, my team who stood by me, and my family who sacrificed alongside me. This award is yours as much as it is mine.

Speech 2: Accepting an Industry Innovator Award

“innovation: a collective endeavor”.

Thank you for this honor. Being recognized as an Industry Innovator is a humbling experience. Innovation is not born in a vacuum; it is the outcome of relentless questioning and collaborative problem-solving. I stand here because of a culture that values bold ideas and the freedom to pursue them. This award reflects our shared commitment to pushing boundaries and creating something truly remarkable. To all aspiring innovators, let this be a reminder: your ideas have the power to shape the future.

Speech 3: Accepting a Community Service Award

“service: the fabric of our community”.

Today, I am deeply honored to accept this Community Service Award. Service, to me, is the very fabric that holds our community together. It’s about seeing a need and responding with compassion and action. This recognition is not for me alone but for all who have worked tirelessly to uplift and support our community. From organizing local drives to advocating for change, every effort counts and reflects our collective commitment to making a difference. This award is a celebration of our united spirit of service.

Speech 4: Accepting a Courageous Leadership Award

“leading with courage and conviction”.

Receiving the Courageous Leadership Award is a profoundly humbling experience. Leadership is not about titles or accolades; it’s about making decisions that are guided by courage and conviction, especially in the face of adversity. It’s about standing up for what is right, even when it is not easy. This award is a tribute to all the unsung heroes who lead by example every day, making our world a better place. I accept this with a promise to continue leading with integrity and courage.

Speech 5: Accepting an Artistic Excellence Award

“art as a mirror of society”.

Art is not just a form of expression; it’s a mirror of society, reflecting its beauty and complexities. As an artist, I am deeply honored to receive this Artistic Excellence Award. This journey has been one of constant exploration and expression, driven by an insatiable desire to evoke emotion and provoke thought. This recognition belongs to everyone who has ever dared to dream and create. May we continue to use our art to inspire, challenge, and bring about change.

Speech 6: Accepting a Best Educator Award

“educating for a better tomorrow”.

I am truly honored to accept the Best Educator Award. Education is the cornerstone of progress, and as educators, we have the privilege and responsibility to shape minds and nurture dreams. This award is not mine alone but belongs to all the educators who spend countless hours preparing the next generation for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Together, we are building a brighter future, one student at a time.

Speech 7: Accepting a Sportsmanship Award

“the true spirit of competition”.

Today, I stand here honored to accept the Sportsmanship Award. In the realm of sports, competition is intense, but the true spirit lies in how we play the game. It’s about respect, integrity, and fairness, both on and off the field. This award is a reminder that while winning is celebrated, how we conduct ourselves is what truly defines us. To my fellow athletes, let’s continue to uplift each other and honor the true spirit of sportsmanship.

Speech 8: Accepting a Breakthrough Scientific Award

“science: a beacon of hope and innovation”.

Receiving the Breakthrough Scientific Award is a moment of great pride and responsibility. Science is our beacon of hope and innovation, guiding us towards a better understanding of the world and opening doors to new possibilities. This award is a recognition of our collective quest for knowledge and our commitment to improving lives through discovery and innovation. To the scientific community, let this fuel our continued pursuit of answers and solutions.

Speech 9: Accepting a Philanthropy Award

“philanthropy: a commitment to humanity”.

It is with a profound sense of gratitude that I accept this Philanthropy Award. Philanthropy is about more than just giving; it’s a commitment to humanity, to easing suffering and creating opportunities for those in need. This award is a testament to what we can achieve when we channel our resources and energy towards the greater good. Let us continue to work together, for together, we can build a world of hope and shared prosperity.

Speech 10: Accepting a First Responder Bravery Award

“bravery in the face of adversity”.

Accepting the First Responder Bravery Award is an honor that I share with all first responders who put their lives on the line every day. Bravery is not the absence of fear but the strength to confront it, to run towards danger when every instinct tells you to run away. This award is dedicated to the courageous men and women who face adversity with valor and determination, ensuring safety and providing hope in our most critical moments. Your bravery is an inspiration to us all.

These speeches serve as templates, each reflecting the essence of its respective award while offering a personal touch that resonates with audiences. The goal is to inspire, to celebrate, and to remind us of the values that bring us together in recognition and gratitude.

Acceptance Speech Thanks Those Who Made Excellence Possible

When achievements are acknowledged with an award or accolade, the recipients should respond with a gracious acceptance speech. A well-delivered acceptance speech conveys thanks, identifies people instrumental in the speaker’s success, and inspires others to strive toward their goals. 

Whether it’s Meryl Streep and one of her many Academy Awards or John F. Kennedy and his nomination for president,  knowing how to deliver the right acceptance speech is an essential skill.

Table of Contents

What Is An Acceptance Speech

An acceptance speech is an address given by an individual recognized for their achievements or contributions in a particular field.  It serves as a way for the recipient to express gratitude and appreciation for their recognition.

Examples of these speeches can be seen at  Hollywood awards shows , such as the Academy Awards (otherwise known as the Oscars) or Golden Globes. In these ceremonies, achievements like Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress, or Motion Picture of the Year are examples of awards given.

But acceptance speeches are given in many fields for many types of achievement s. Academic achievements, sports, career advancements, and even political events like the Republican or Democratic conventions, when presidential nominees are named, require people to give acceptance speeches.

Anytime a formal recognition of success is announced, an acceptance speech should be given.  The purpose of an acceptance speech is to acknowledge those who have helped you achieve your success, whether it be family members, colleagues, mentors, or fans. It also allows you to share any insights or advice you gleaned with others.

An effective acceptance speech should be  concise and heartfelt, conveying humility, confidence, and gratitude . The speaker should  avoid being overly boastful or self-centered and instead focus on expressing gratitude and acknowledging the contributions of others.

Nominees at these events come prepared with an award acceptance speech that allows them to thank those involved with their success and the organization honoring them.

Awards are given as early as kindergarten, though responding with acceptance speeches might not start till high school.

How Do You Write A Speech About Accepting An Award?

When it comes to writing a speech about accepting an award, there are a few key elements that you should keep in mind. You will have limited time, so being prepared and precise is essential.

• Create an outline.  A well-organized speech will have an introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Introduction.  The introduction should express your gratitude for the honor you’ve received. You do so by thanking the organization or individual presenting the award and any colleagues or supporters who have helped you along the way.
• Body.  In the body, you’ll want to reflect on what the award means to you personally and professionally. Consider how it aligns with your values and goals and how it will impact your future endeavors.
•   Conclusion.  During the conclusion, you’ll share some words of inspiration with your audience. Whether encouraging others to pursue their passions or reminding them of the importance of hard work and dedication, your speech should leave a lasting impression on those who hear it.

What Is The First Step In An Acceptance Speech?

The first step in an acceptance speech is to  express gratitude . Whether it is an award, a promotion, or any other form of recognition, expressing gratitude is essential.

It’s crucial to  thank the organization or individual who bestowed the honor on you and acknowledge the efforts of those who helped you achieve it.

Thanking family, friends, and colleagues for the support and encouragement they provided is also crucial. No one achieves success alone, and recognizing everyone (or as many as possible in the given time) who has played a role in your achievement demonstrates your understanding.

Additionally, if time permits, this is an excellent time to  share your perseverance and hard work story . Your circumstances can inspire and encourage others to pursue their dreams and never give up on themselves.

What Should An Acceptance Speech Include?

A well-written acceptance speech should have a  clear introduction  that captures the audience’s attention, a  body that conveys the message effectively , and a  conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

An acceptance speech can be tricky, so preparing ahead of the event ensures you can deliver the right message quickly, even if you don’t expect an award. For someone feeling humbled and brimming with emotion, the inclination can be to talk extensively about the journey and stumble over the right people to thank.

A good acceptance speech must be both thorough and concise. This can be a tricky balance to strike.

When preparing your acceptance speech, be sure to include the following:

• A sincere expression of gratitude towards the organization or individuals who have bestowed the award.
• Recognition of family, friends, colleagues, mentors, and anyone else who has played a significant role in their success.
• An inspiring message that motivates others to pursue their dreams  and work hard to make them a reality.
• Personal experiences  highlight the importance of perseverance, dedication, and never giving up.

It’s also vital to end positively by expressing hope for the future and thanking everyone again for this recognition. A well-crafted acceptance speech can leave a lasting impression on its audience and inspire others to strive towards excellence.

What Is The Most Important Part Of An Acceptance Speech?

The most important part of an acceptance speech is undoubtedly its message of gratitude.

The proper expression of appreciation and thanks to those who supported and participated in your success creates a  personal connection with the audience.  Appearing entitled or ignoring the contributions of others will be off-putting to the audience and those who are bestowing the award.

Family, friends, and colleagues involved in another’s success may feel slighted if they are not mentioned in an acceptance speech. Nominees should come with cue cards to refer to if they win and need to give the speech!

How Do You Write A 5-Minute Acceptance Speech?

Writing a 5-minute acceptance speech can be daunting, especially if you are not used to public speaking or if it’s your first time.

Five minutes is incredibly long, yet not nearly enough time when you find yourself needing to prepare an acceptance speech.

However, with careful planning and preparation, you can create an impactful speech that will leave a lasting impression and be appreciated by your audience.

The steps below can be used as a guide when crafting your acceptance speech:

• Brainstorm . Write down everyone you think you need to thank. This may be a long list, including family members, friends, colleagues, or mentors. Acknowledging the organization or institution giving you the award is also important.
• Create a priority order of thanks.  You have limited time, so arrange your list in priority order with those essential to thank those that you can thank personally later if time doesn’t permit.
• Determine the key message that you want to convey in your speech.  You might include an inspiring story about overcoming challenges or achieving success in your field. Alternatively, it could be a call to action for others to follow in your footsteps and positively impact their own lives.
• Create a strong closing statement.  The best closing statement leaves a lasting impression on your audience. You could use a quote or personal anecdote that summarizes your message and inspires others to take action.
• Edit.  With all of these elements created, put them together and edit.
• Practice.  You have 5 minutes, so you’ll need to practice. Knowing what you’d like to say and speaking eloquently will give you the most opportunity to include all the elements you’d like to in your speech.

Writing a 5-minute acceptance speech requires careful planning and preparation . By thanking those who have helped you along the way, conveying an inspiring message, and ending with a strong closing statement, you can create an impactful speech that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

What Is An Example Of A Short Speech About Accepting An Award?

Accepting an award is a moment of great pride and honor for any individual. It is an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation toward those who have supported and encouraged us throughout our journey. A short speech about accepting an award should be concise, heartfelt, and gracious.

An excellent example of a short acceptance speech is the one given by Denzel Washington in 1990 when he won the first Oscar of his career for best male actor in a supporting role. His Oscar speech went as follows:

I want to thank the Academy. I’m gonna thank Ed Zwick, and Freddie Fields, who did a fantastic job, who made what I consider to be at least one of the best five films of the Year. I’d like to thank my friend and manager, Flo Allen. Fabulous Ed Limato. And Todd Smith and George Freeman. And God bless you, my mother. I love you. My beautiful wife Pauletta, the kids. My son said he was gonna make one of these out of clay for me; now I got the model for him. I want to thank my first agent, the late Ruth Aronson, who believed in me. I’d also like to pay homage to the 54th, the black soldiers who helped to make this country free. I thank God. I thank you.

Lorin Harrott

After years as a professional speaker and corporate trainer,Lorin Harrott has turned her attention to sharing her knowledge through writing. She's currently a writer, photographer, and mom in Sacramento, CA, with occasional speaking engagements related to education and STEM topics in the public school system.

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How to Give an Acceptance Speech

Last Updated: May 18, 2021 Approved

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 291,594 times.

Giving an acceptance speech can be a daunting task when you're naturally humble, especially if you've been working so hard earning the accolades that you haven't brushed up on your public speaking skills! Luckily, with the right planning and execution, an acceptance speech can be an opportunity to shine, rather than something that must be suffered through. By following a few basic rules of thumb during the writing and polishing stages of your preparation process and knowing basic standards of speech-giving etiquette ahead of time, you can make your acceptance speech as painless as possible — fun, even!

Sample Speeches

Writing a Great Speech

• As a general rule, the smaller your audience and the more intimately you know its members, the more casual your speech may be.

• "Hello. Thank you for honoring me this evening. As you've just heard, my name is Jane Smith. I joined this company in 2009, and since then, I've worked with the marketing, content, and analytics departments in varying capacities. Earlier this year, I had the honor of collaborating with my boss, John Q. Public, on a new data processing system, which is why we're here today."

• "I'm here today to offer my sincerest gratitude to the dozens of people without whom this experience wouldn't have been possible. I'd also like to briefly discuss the role that the idea of "going the extra mile" has played in setting this company apart from the others in the tech field."

• “As much as I appreciate this award and as grateful as I am for it, the greatest reward I’ve ever been given is the simple opportunity to help generations of kids learn how to think critically about the world around them.”

• "As we leave here today, I'd like to ask the members of the audience to take a moment to think about the importance of educating the children of this generation. Tomorrow's problems demand bright, hard-working individuals to solve them, and the only way we can create these individuals is by acting as a community to support our schools, our teachers, and the countless people that they depend on for their continued strength."

• When you're thanking people, it's a wise idea to end with something along the lines of, "and finally, I'd like to thank everyone else who supported me during my work — there are too many people to list, but I want to thank you all personally." This covers your bases in case you forget anyone who played a minor role in your success.

• As a positive example, consider Jimmy Valvano's phenomenal acceptance speech at the 1993 ESPY awards. Just eight weeks before his premature death from cancer, the famed college basketball coach delivered an immensely moving speech to an ecstatic standing ovation from the crowd. [2] X Research source
• As an example of what not to do, consider Hilary Swank's Oscar acceptance speech for "Boys Don't Cry" in 2000. Swank accepted her award gratefully, doling out thanks to all of her supporters, with the major exception of her husband , whom the cameras famously caught crying tears of joy during Swank's speech. [3] X Research source
• As an oddball example, consider Joe Pesci’s Oscar acceptance speech. After taking the podium at the 1991 Oscars for his work in "Goodfellas," Pesci said simply, "It's my privilege. Thank you." Pesci was both praised and lampooned for his five word speech.

Polishing Your Speech to Perfection

• Knowing the outline of your speech ahead of time is useful for multiple reasons. For instance, not only will this prevent certain technical snafus (for instance, a breeze carrying your speech away) from derailing your speech, but it can also help you deliver your speech more confidently. After all, if you know basically what you need to say ahead of time, what need is there to worry?

• Also, don’t forget that there may be people in the audience who were in the running for the honor you ended up receiving. Because of this, you won’t want to demean the organization that’s honoring you or jokingly imply that you were a bad choice. Maintain respect for yourself, the organization honoring you, and the audience as you accept your award.

• As you practice, time yourself. You may be surprised how much longer (or shorter) your speech is than you thought it would be. If you have a hard time limit for your speech, use the results of your timed practice to edit your speech as necessary.

Delivering your Speech with Dignity

• Rapid heartbeat: Breathe deeply and slowly. Concentrate on someone in the room you're comfortable around, like a friend or family member. Start delivering the words of your speech — you'll naturally relax once you start talking.
• Racing, panicked thoughts: Take deep breaths. Look out into the audience and see the humor in their blank, expressionless faces. Alternatively, imagine that the members of the audience are somehow unimportant or laughable (e.g., that they're all in their underwear, etc.)
• Dry mouth: Bring a bottle of water with you onstage to drink as you need it. Consider also chewing gum before (but not during) your speech. Mimicking the process of eating can have a calming effect on the emotions. In addition, it can stimulate saliva production, preventing a dry mouth.
• Trembling: Breathe deeply and slowly. If necessary, try slowly tensing and releasing the muscles in the trembling body part to work out the excess energy from your adrenaline high.
• Above all, relax . You've prepared, so you have no reason to worry about how the speech will turn out. Worrying will only make it harder to deliver the great speech that you're perfectly capable of giving.

• Hurrying or rushing through your speech.
• Fidgeting or messing with something in your hands
• Swaying from side to side.
• Coughing/sniffling excessively

• If you can remember to do so, try to gradually move your gaze from side to side as you look at your audience. Sweeping your eyes back and forth gives the members of the audience the impression that you're addressing them all individually. If this "sweeping" motion is tricky for you, try randomly picking individuals in the audience to look at for a few seconds at a time as you talk.

Expert Q&A

• Keep any jokes clean and flattering. Don't debase yourself or anyone else. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• When writing your speech, stay mindful of the audience. Your knowledge of the attire and the age group should dictate your vocabulary. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• At all costs, avoid forgetting to mention someone. It is always better to mention groups, or teams, and avoid speaking about individuals, than it is to disregard someone unintentionally. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ http://www.jimmyv.org/about-us/remembering-jim/jimmy-v-espy-awards-speech/
• ↑ http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/oscars-acceptance-speech-flubs-422360
• ↑ http://www.cypressmedia.net/articles/article/19/overcome_your_fears_and_become_a_great_speaker
• http://www.sideroad.com/Public_Speaking/acceptance_speech.html
• http://www.write-out-loud.com/acceptance-speeches.html

About this article

To give an acceptance speech, start by introducing yourself, then get right to the main theme of your speech. Keep your words simple, speak slowly and clearly, and try to center at least part of your speech around thanking those who helped you get to where you are. Explain what personal meaning the honor holds for you, then wrap up your speech with a concise, powerful ending! For tips on polishing and practicing your speech, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Acceptance speeches - without tears

U nlike some of the most publicized acceptance speeches, these do not have to be a long list of ' thank you, thank you ... ' punctuated by sobs or silence because you're scrabbling for a clean tissue. Neither do they need to be so flippant or brief they minimize the people honoring you.

Good acceptance speeches find a balance, blending gracious humility with sincere acknowledgment and perhaps, a little humor.

T hese guidelines were written as a result of my own experience. Yes, dear reader, I gulped and gawped at an expectant audience, managing a few tearful 'thank yous' before being gently steered off stage sniffling into a huge bunch of creamy-pink roses.

Not an acceptance speech I'd encourage anyone to copy!

Tips for acceptable acceptance speeches

• Prepare ahead, if possible In my example above there was little time to prepare but had I been thinking I would have realized a speech could  be called for. I wasn't, and the result was temporarily embarrassing.  If you DO know you're going to be honored, preparation will save you from a similar fate, particularly if it's likely you'll be overcome emotionally by the occasion.

She traveled 10,000 miles to say thank you! Read Birdland School Principal Olive Mumba's inspirational award acceptance speech .

Olive delivered this speech at a dinner given in her honor in Seattle where she received the 2009 Seattle Academy Arts and Sciences 'Future Building' Award for her outstanding commitment and work to give the children of her community in Lusaka, Zambia an opportunity to learn.

• Begin by finding out : - how long you are expected to speak for - whether it's formal or informal, day or night time? - who will be in your audience - who will be introducing you and what they're likely to say - and if you're expected to cover any specific subject matter.

Expected content for acceptance speeches

You'll want notes/ideas covering off:

• gracious thanks to the person and/or organization honoring you
• an acknowledgment of the audience witnessing the event
• an appreciative awareness of those who helped you without digressing into thanks for the cat, dog, next-door neighbor, the person who didn't run you off the road when you were ten years old and larking on your bike ...
• what the honor means to you
• the values the donor organization/institution espouses and how they inspire you

R emember people love stories. Tell them but keep them tight and to the point. Give them snapshots into where your life was and where it's going now, perhaps as a result of the opportunities made possible through this award. Click this link to find out more about story telling in speeches

Using humor safely

It's good to be witty and amusing but be really careful. Even self-deprecating humor can backfire badly. These people are honoring you because they thought you deserved it. Mocking yourself may take away from them as well. Click the link to find out more about how to use humor in speeches .

Speech writing

I f you need tips to help you through the writing process - to get from your notes to words flowing smoothly, this page on how to write a speech will assist.

There's also a handy down-loadable printable  fill-in-the-blanks speech outline following the standard 3-part speech format (opening, body, ending) to keep you on track.

Speech delivery

Speeches, especially brief ones, are better delivered without reading your text word-for-word. Use * cue cards to help you remember the main points and rehearse until you are fluent.

* Cue cards - Click the link for detailed information on how to prepare and use cue cards successfully. They do make a positive difference. Your speech will appear more spontaneous and direct through using them.

For smooth assured delivery you need to practice. This page will help you make the most of your rehearsal time . It is full of effective easy-to-use tips and techniques.

Lastly, enjoy the experience and congratulations on your achievement!

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How to Accept an Award

The best acceptance speeches are gracious and full of heart..

By Emily Sachs

It’s your moment of triumph. So you grab the closest pen or hairbrush and launch into an overdramatic thanking of the Academy, declaring “You like me!” and telling your kids to go to bed as the invisible orchestra drowns you out.

We’ve all played out that imaginary moment. But maybe we should stop, says San Francisco speech coach Patricia Fripp . Those famous televised award speeches are actually a “what not to do” when receiving an honor. In their brief time in the literal spotlight, most winners resort to over-the-top gushing and false modesty. Or they breeze through an uninspiring laundry list of verbal gratuities.

“Most Academy Award speeches are pathetic,” says Fripp, a frequent speaker at Toastmasters conferences and a former Toastmaster herself. “You want the emotional connection. Paint the picture. Inspire passion in others.”

If you are active in Toastmasters or your community, or are a generous philanthropist or a dedicated team member, chances are you will eventually be recognized for your time and efforts. And you might be expected to make some remarks in front of your peers when you do. Fear not, fellow Toastmaster: A good acceptance speech has the same objective as every good speech—to be gracious, powerful, and memorable—only in less time than a typical speech.

“You can have more impact with a well-crafted three- to five-minute speech than you can with 45 minutes,” Fripp says. “However, every word must count.”

Practice in Pathways

The “Deliver Social Speeches” project in the Pathways learning curriculum gives all Toastmasters the opportunity to practice receiving honors—and bestowing them—through a choice of two social occasion speeches. These are designed to be delivered in three to four minutes each. This unique project has endless real-life applications—from offering a toast at a family celebration to honoring a retiring coworker or even getting public recognition.

Pathways offers the following guidelines for award-acceptance speeches:

• Express your gratitude and be genuine.
• Demonstrate why you are deserving of the honor.
• Recognize those who helped you achieve success.
• Personalize your speech with anecdotes.
• Respect the audience and the clock.

Fripp’s failproof approach to a winning acceptance speech is to tell a story about the organization or group giving the honor If it’s a college alumni award, for instance, talk about the awe you felt the first time you visited the campus in person. For a workplace award, speak about a manager who encouraged you to stay during a difficult period. Or, in the case of a named award, reference the namesake and describe your lifelong admiration of their achievements.

When it comes to pitfalls, Fripp says to avoid these two things: trying too hard to be funny and speaking without preparation. Even her own coaching clients, many of whom are business executives, are steered wrong by award shows. “Be profound, be wise, be gracious. But don’t try to be funny if you aren’t; otherwise, it will backfire,” she says. Even an innocent, self-deprecating remark can bomb. Declaring that you don’t deserve an award or that anyone could have done what you did is not only an insult to the other nominees, but also to the prior winners and especially to those who nominated and selected you.

Will Heeman knows well the careful balance required to be both funny and respectful. The “Chief Daymaker” of Heeman’s, his family’s garden and farm business in Ontario, Canada, he has accepted three business awards in the last five years at the London (Ontario) Chamber of Commerce gala, before 1,500 other community leaders. Business events can be especially dry, and he says that industry puns—“dad jokes,” if you will—can find a receptive audience at them. In 2019, he accepted the chamber’s Environmental Leadership award on the first day of spring. “We’re so excited today,” he told the audience, “that we wet our plants!” The quip hit the mark and still gets repeated.

Preparation Is Key

As for using the big event as your “Evening at the Improv,” Fripp instead suggests being “perpetually prepared” in order to be gracious in front of your peers. We all have the opportunity on a regular basis to practice publicly expressing appreciation—whether on conference calls at our jobs, in committee huddles for our community work, or at our Toastmasters meetings.

For example, if you are asked to present a status update on a project, Fripp suggests you try saying something like, “On behalf of the dedicated three-person public relations team, thank you for the opportunity to report on our progress. You will be pleased to hear that our extra hours and late-night emails enabled us to complete our website redesign two weeks ahead of schedule. This feat wouldn’t have been possible without the generous technical assistance of the treasurer, as well as your support.” If you work this type of phrasing into your everyday speaking, it won’t be difficult to do so when called up to receive formal recognition, Fripp says. It might even plant the seed that you are a leader worthy of recognition.

Of course, being prepared also means drafting a speech ahead of any awards ceremony and practicing it with others enough times that you won’t need notes. You never know if you will have your hands full with a microphone or the award or if the lectern is unwieldy. Fripp also advises confirming ahead of time if you are expected to deliver remarks. “If you know you are going to accept an award, prepare, script, and rehearse,” she says. “If you believe you may be called to accept an award, prepare in case.”

Aaron Lee of Oxford, England, was a tuxedoed finalist sitting at the 2017 Museums + Heritage Awards ceremony when he discovered that the winners were giving speeches. A few categories later, he was doubly surprised to hear his name called as a Volunteer of the Year winner. In front of a room of 350 others, the then- university student delivered his first-ever formal remarks.

“Before I was called, I had a mental idea of what I would say,” he says, “and then you get called and that goes out the window.”

Lee admitted to the audience that he hadn’t even known he was nominated until he was short-listed. His shock quickly settled and he expressed appreciation to the audience, the sponsors, his nominators, and even the event staff serving the dinner. He won the award for his work at the Museum of Oxford, a gem of a civic museum that gets overshadowed by those of neighboring Oxford University—“which are alright,” he deadpanned to the crowd representing many of the U.K.’s most notable institutions.

These award winners agree that being honored is only the beginning. Immediately after the ceremony, you will have a room full of people waiting to congratulate you, so make it easy for them. Lee says he got positive feedback after speaking and was also invited to later do a radio interview. Heeman, the Canadian awardee with the agricultural business, says that such a speech might be your only chance to make a first impression to a room of potential customers or connections.

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Speech Writing

Acceptance Speech

Learn How to Write an Acceptance Speech like Experts

Published on: Mar 27, 2022

Last updated on: Mar 25, 2024

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A short, well-written speech is expected at a public event when you receive an award. It is the golden opportunity that you thank the awarding organization or individuals. 

However, you need proper planning and good writing skills that make your speech impressive for the audience.  

It's important to have an acceptance speech prepared before the event. However, you can avoid making mistakes by following some guidelines and proper structure, which you will find in this guide.

Thus, continue reading this guide and learn how to create a perfect acceptance speech with our professional written examples. 

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

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Acceptance Speech Definition

An acceptance speech is a type of speech given by someone receiving an award or prize. However, not all awards have speeches.

Some are other forms such as trophies and certificates that can be used to give thanks for achievements in fields like academics, engineering, science, and medicine.

When you're accepting a prestigious award, it's important to give a speech that is both concise and engaging.

However, you need to create a basic outline and a list of people you want to thank for a great speech.

Also, it is better that you take time and write a perfect speech that impresses the audience.

How to Start an Acceptance Speech?

Starting a speech can be hard when there are many different thoughts in your mind. You may not know where to start or what points should go into the introduction of your speech. Don't panic!

Follow these simple steps, and you'll get on stage with confidence:

Think hard about what you are thankful for. Then, write down a few reasons why you are grateful. The people who gave you the award want to know that you appreciate it. They want to hear your thoughts on this honor, so tell them.

Make a list of people you want to thank in your speech. Put their names on the list. You can thank organizations, people who worked on the project with you, and family and friends that supported you.

Read other people's speeches for inspiration. You can find those on the Internet or in your local library. It is important to read speeches from people who received awards similar to those you will be getting.

An outline is a plan for the speech. It will have all the ideas and headings you need. Also, follow the proper format for the outline. Therefore, you can easily write a great speech.

You can also check out this video guide on how to give an acceptance speech!

How to Write an Acceptance Speech?

A public speaking opportunity is a golden moment for any award winner. But you need to plan and work on your writing skills before the big day comes.

Here are some steps that you should follow and write a perfect speech.

1. Write an Introduction

The introduction sets the tone of your entire speech. It is also important to connect with the people in the audience at first.

You could start by telling a light-hearted joke, but do not talk about how great you are or why you deserve this award.

Also, start by thanking people who helped you in achieving your goals. The length of your introduction depends on how much time you have to speak, but try not to keep it too long.

2. Write the Main Body

The body of the speech focuses on those who deserve recognition. The bulk of your speech should be devoted to thanking those people that helped you get this award.

Reference the list you made of people who deserve recognition and thank them by name in a heartfelt way.

However, you don't need to thank everyone in your life, just the people who deserve it. Therefore, make sure you only give thanks to those involved with your award and family/friends close to you.

Also, you can add humor to your speech and make it interesting. However, do not make your speech humorous; it will lose its real expression.

3. Write the Conclusion

Conclude your speech with a positive message that makes a great impact on the audience. Also, keep the speech conclusion short and brief.

Summarize the group of people who have helped you in accomplishing the goal. You can also suggest a call to action to inspire the audience.

Highlight the few organization’s achievements if you received an award for your work from an organization. Also, thank the audience in your last sentence for their time and efforts.

4. Rehearsing and Proofread

After writing the speech, proofread it and remove all the mistakes. The most important thing to remember when giving a speech is to practice.

Reading your speech is important because it tells you to see what the listener will hear. You should read aloud while noting any sections that sound awkward or confusing.

To make it easier to pronounce, remove words and phrases which are hard.

Ask someone you trust, such as your friend or partner, to help you rehearse and give constructive feedback. Then, keep practicing until both of you feel that it is perfect with no flaws at all.

Acceptance Speech Examples

Examples are always helpful, and they can help give you some ideas for writing an acceptance speech. Therefore, for your help, we gathered some professionally written examples that make your writing phase easy.

Acceptance Speech Sample

Acceptance Speech for Student Council President

Acceptance Speech As President Of An Organization

Acceptance Speech After Election

These are some Nobel Prize acceptance speech examples:

Acceptance Speech For The Nobel Peace Prize

Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech Summary

Martin Luther King Jr. Acceptance Speech

You can check out our descriptive list of acceptance speeches for award examples here: 

Jennifer Coolidge Acceptance Speech

Brendan Fraser Acceptance Speech

Will Smith Acceptance Speech Oscars 2022

Austin Butler Acceptance Speech

Ke Huy Quan Acceptance Speech

Troy Kotsur Acceptance Speech

Jamie Lee Curtis Acceptance Speech

Sheryl Lee Ralph Acceptance Speech

Michelle Yeoh Acceptance Speech

Acceptance Speech Writing Tips

The following are the tips that you should follow to create a well-written speech that impresses the audience.

• Know your audience: Research the audience and occasion to get a sense of the tone and expectations. Understanding your audience can help you tailor your speech to their interests and needs.
• Keep it concise and focused: Avoid going off-topic or rambling. Keep your speech concise and focused on the message you want to convey.
• Practice, practice, practice: Practice your speech multiple times to get comfortable with the content and delivery. This will also help you identify areas where you may need to revise or clarify your message.
• Be authentic and sincere: Speak from the heart and convey genuine emotion. Authenticity and sincerity can help you connect with your audience and make your message more impactful.
• Acknowledge and thank others: Don't forget to acknowledge and thank those who have supported you along the way. This can help you demonstrate humility and gratitude and show that you recognize the contributions of others to your success.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in an Acceptance Speech 

When delivering an acceptance speech, it's important to remember that the audience is not only interested in your achievements. But also in your ability to convey gratitude, humility, and inspiration. 

To ensure that your acceptance speech hits the right notes, it's important to avoid these common mistakes:

1. Focusing solely on oneself and neglecting to thank others:

An acceptance speech is not just about you; it's also about the people who have supported you along the way. 

Failing to acknowledge their contributions and express gratitude can make you appear self-centered and ungrateful.

2. Rambling or going off-topic:

While it's important to convey your gratitude and address the occasion, it's equally important to keep your speech concise and focused. 

Going off-topic or rambling can make your speech difficult to follow and leave your audience disengaged.

3. Using inappropriate language or humor:

An acceptance speech should be professional and respectful, regardless of the occasion. 

Using inappropriate language or humor can offend or alienate your audience. It detracts from the message you are trying to convey.

Now, you get all the information about the acceptance speech. You can start crafting your own with the help of our essay writer !

But sometimes, not every good speaker is a great writer. So many people hire professional writers to do their work for them.

CollegeEssay.org is the place where you can get professional help for your college essay and professional speeches.

So, contact us now and avail the best online essay writing service at affordable rates. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should acceptance speeches be.

Acceptance speeches can vary in length. But typically they're pretty short because everyone wants to turn their attention back to what's really important. 

How do you end a speech?

When ending a speech, it's important to summarize the main points of your message. Don't just repeat what was said earlier; paraphrase the key themes and arguments you have just presented.

What do you say in an acceptance speech?

Here are some key points that will help you and give you a better idea of what you need to say in your speech. 

• Be genuine. 
• Keep your remarks short. 
• Don't apologize. 
• Conclude with an inspirational note. 

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

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How to Write Great Acceptance Speeches

by Jezra on August 2, 2023

For the past few years, I’ve had the honor of writing speeches with some of America’s greatest (American) football players.

And I’ve also had the honor of being featured in a New York Times article about that work.

How can that be? (you might ask), when I know almost nothing about football or, in fact, any sport besides lying on the couch reading romance novels?

It can be because we are writing acceptance speeches

Are All Acceptance Speeches Created Equal?

A speech that you would give to accept an Academy Award or enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame is not the same as a speech you would give to accept an honorary degree or thanks from a local charity.

But they’re not that different, either, because they’re all about the gratitude you feel toward the community that’s honoring you .

So—at the risk of making myself obsolete by sharing these professional secrets—I’ve sketched out an approach to expressing that gratitude in an organized way, in a limited amount of time.

The Elements of Good Acceptance Speeches

You don’t need to hit all of these beats, and you don’t need to deliver them in this order. But if (like my clients who are being enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, you have dozens and dozens of people to thank), this outline will help you pull that off.

1. “Housekeeping”

(So called because it’s not part of the body of your speech)

• Greet the audience. Let them know how much you appreciate their presence.
• Thank the organization that’s honoring or recognizing you.
• If this is relevant, comment on how proud you are to be part of the long tradition of exceptional people who’ve received this honor before you.
• And if you’re inclined to thank God, this is a good place to do that, too.

2. Share a Little Background

• If it’s appropriate and you have time, share a little bit about what started you on the path to this award.
• This could be as short as 30 seconds or as long as several minutes.
• If you have a charming or funny story about your early involvement with the topic, now is the time to tell it.

3. Acknowledge Your Debt to Others

• Let the audience know that you know that you couldn’t have made it this far without help from many, many other people—some of whom are present today. (Don’t list them all right now, that will come soon. 🙂
• Lots of people thank and/or talk about their parents at this point in their acceptance speeches. Whether your folks drove you to football practice or gave you a moral foundation that helped you excel, they helped put you on the road to success.

4. Now Talk About the People Who Helped You Develop and Grow

• Begin with the people who helped mold you into the person you are today. They deserve the most recognition, and if you have time, a brief comment about what makes them so special to you.
• Then, as you go down the list, you can start putting slightly less important people into groups (“all of the great line coaches I worked with, including…”). Here, you’re mostly listing people, since you don’t have time to share a personal detail about each one.
• Finally, thank people in categories (“the great back office team,” “all of our fine training staff,” etc.)
• And don’t forget your audience members, fans, or volunteers who helped you achieve your success . (You wouldn’t anyway! :-)) Without them, you would literally be nowhere.

5. Finally, Thank Your Family

• Your spouse, your children (if any), maybe your siblings, your parents (if you haven’t already spoken about them), and again, God, if God is central to your life, all deserve public gratitude.
• Say a few words about what your family members have sacrificed, how they’ve stood by you during the hard times, and how they are the best spouse/kids/siblings anyone could ever have! (Assuming that all of this is true. If it’s not, don’t say anything! :-))

6. If You Want, Get Big Picture

• If you want to share advice, or a philosophy of success, now’s a good time to do that.
• And if you told a personal story at the beginning, does it tie back to your advice? (“Watching my Dad work in the fields helped me understand how to be a success in life…”)
• Make your advice (or the values you’re recommending) simple and to the point.

7. Close with More Thanks

• “So I just want to say again how much I appreciate being part of this great community. Thank you for being here with me today; I’ll never forget it.”
• “All of you are the reason I’m getting this award, and I wish I could share it with each and every one of you. So thank you again, and let’s keep winning together.”

Ready to Write Your Acceptance Speech?

Even though acceptance speeches generally hit these traditional beats, they should still be highly individual. Your speech should convey your feelings , and your thoughts, in a way that nobody else but you could express.

Writing acceptance speeches isn’t rocket science— but it is a skill that, as the New York Times pointed out, speechwriters like me have worked hard to perfect.

So if you find out that you’re going to be honored, congratulations!

And if you want a hand with your acceptance speech, just give a yell.

You May Also Want to Read...

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Mastering award acceptance speeches: winning tips, winning tips for award acceptance speeches.

Winning an award is a great feeling, but it is only half the battle. The other half is delivering an acceptance speech that resonates with your audience and makes them feel connected to you. Crafting an inspiring speech requires careful thought and planning, as well as practice and rehearsal . In this blog, we will explore the key elements of an effective award acceptance speech, including storytelling, humor, and balance. We will also discuss practical tips for delivering your speech with confidence and managing stage presence. Lastly, we will touch upon common pitfalls to avoid while giving an acceptance speech. By the end of this blog, you will have all the tools you need to write and deliver a winning award acceptance speech that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Understanding the Importance of an Award Acceptance Speech

An award acceptance speech, whether at the Oscars or the Golden Globes, serves as a platform to express gratitude and humility. When crafted well, it leaves a positive impact on the audience and provides an opportunity to thank specific individuals. Keeping the speech concise and impactful is key, with elements of gratitude, congratulations, and humility. Standing behind the lectern, like Oprah does, can add gravitas to your words and enhance the overall impact of your speech.

The Impact of a Well-Delivered Speech (even if you’re not Oprah or giving on at the Oscars)

Crafting an impactful award acceptance speech goes beyond words; it’s about engaging the audience on a deeper level. Maintaining consistent eye contact establishes a connection, allowing the speaker to convey sincerity and confidence. Integrating storytelling into the speech captivates the audience, leaving a memorable impression and evoking emotions. Examining speech examples from events like the Oscars and the Golden Globes exemplifies the power of a well-delivered address. Adequate preparation and practice at the lectern are essential for a compelling delivery, as demonstrated by iconic figures such as Oprah Winfrey.

The Role of an Acceptance Speech in Building Your Image and Showing Gratitude

Crafting a compelling acceptance speech is more than just a formality; it plays a significant role in shaping one’s public image. An inspiring and impactful speech has the potential to enhance an individual’s reputation and add value to their persona. These speeches are not just routine events; they are celebrated and remembered, making them crucial opportunities for personal branding. Therefore, it is essential to devote ample time to the preparation and delivery of an acceptance speech, as it holds the power to leave a lasting impression on the audience and contribute to the overall public image.

Key Elements to Crafting an Inspiring Acceptance Speech

Crafting an inspiring acceptance speech involves understanding the purpose of the address, striking a balance between gratitude and inspiration, and managing stage presence. Using humor strategically can engage the audience, leaving them on a positive note. Incorporating storytelling and maintaining eye contact establishes a connection with the audience, creating a lasting impression. Additionally, considering the impact of the speech on one’s public image is crucial, as award acceptance speeches contribute significantly to an individual’s reputation, making them memorable in events like the Golden Globes and Oscars. Standing confidently at the lectern, akin to Oprah, can enhance the overall delivery, making the speech impactful and unforgettable.

Establishing the Purpose of Your Speech

Establishing the purpose of your speech is essential. It’s about expressing gratitude sincerely and inspiring others with humility. Acknowledging the support and contributions you’ve received sets the right tone for acceptance and gratitude, leaving a lasting impression. Crafting an award acceptance speech involves understanding the significance of conveying humility and gratitude. This purpose goes beyond winning awards; it’s about recognizing the impact of others in your journey.

Using Storytelling to Engage the Audience

Incorporating personal experiences can add relatability to an acceptance speech, engaging the audience on a deeper level. By infusing storytelling with emotions, an acceptance speech becomes more heartfelt and resonates with the listeners. Employing narrative techniques not only captivates the audience but also makes the speech memorable. A well-crafted acceptance speech often revolves around a personal story, drawing the audience into the speaker’s world. Engaging storytelling has the power to capture and hold the audience’s attention, leaving a lasting impression.

Balancing Humour and Seriousness

Balancing the light-hearted with the profound is key to crafting a compelling award acceptance speech. By infusing appropriate humor, you can create an uplifting atmosphere, engaging the audience and lightening the mood. On the other hand, integrating seriousness adds depth to the speech, making it impactful and resonant. The combination of humor and seriousness makes the speech dynamic, ensuring that it strikes the right balance between gravitas and lightheartedness. This balanced approach captivates the audience, leaving a lasting impression. When delivering your speech at events like the Golden Globes or Oscars, standing behind the lectern, you can take cues from renowned speakers like Oprah to master this art of balancing and keep your audience engaged throughout.

Practical Tips for Delivering an Award Acceptance Speech

Regular practice is crucial for delivering a powerful award acceptance speech. Managing stage presence and body language holds significant importance during the delivery. Additionally, practicing confident eye contact enhances the impact of the speech. Confidence and poise play a major role in effectively delivering an award acceptance speech. It requires substantial time for preparation to ensure a polished delivery. Incorporating personal anecdotes can make an acceptance speech relatable. Balancing humor and seriousness adds depth to the speech, creating a dynamic and impactful delivery. Engaging storytelling techniques can make the speech memorable and capture the audience’s attention.

Importance of Regular Practice

Regular practice plays a significant role in boosting confidence when delivering an acceptance speech. It ensures a polished and refined delivery, reducing the risk of nervousness. Consistent practice is essential for achieving an impactful speech delivery, refining the nuances of the speech. Through regular practice, speakers become better equipped to engage with the audience effectively. The thorough rehearsal of an acceptance speech leads to a more confident and compelling delivery, enhancing the overall impact of the speech. By dedicating time to regular practice, speakers can refine their skills and master the art of delivering an award acceptance speech seamlessly.

Managing Stage Presence and Body Language

A well-delivered award acceptance speech relies heavily on effective stage presence and body language. Mastering these elements enhances the impact of the speech and creates a commanding presence on stage. Confidence in speech delivery is reflected through poised body language, conveying gratitude and confidence to the audience. It’s important to convey genuine emotions through body language and maintain a strong presence at the lectern. The ability to effectively manage stage presence and body language is essential in delivering a memorable and impactful acceptance speech.

What to Avoid While Giving an Award Acceptance Speech?

To deliver an impactful award acceptance speech, avoid rambling and keep it concise. Instead of reading a long list, make eye contact with your audience. Thank event organizers, nominators, and those who supported you. End on a positive note to leave a lasting impression.

Overcoming Common Pitfalls in Award Acceptance Speeches

Overcoming common pitfalls in award acceptance speeches involves thorough preparation and genuine delivery. Practicing acceptance speech examples is essential for readiness, while ensuring that the speech remains heartfelt and not rehearsed. Additionally, incorporating humor, when suitable, can captivate the audience’s attention and create a memorable experience. Structuring the speech with a compelling opening further engages the audience, setting the tone for the rest of the speech. Drawing inspiration from award acceptance speeches on platforms like YouTube can provide valuable insights. By implementing these strategies, speakers can navigate common pitfalls and deliver impactful award acceptance speeches.

In conclusion, delivering an award acceptance speech is an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your audience. It is important to understand the significance of this moment and how it can contribute to building your image. A well-delivered speech has the power to inspire and engage the audience through effective storytelling and a balance of humor and seriousness. To ensure a successful speech, regular practice is key, along with managing stage presence and body language. It is also important to avoid common pitfalls such as going off-script or being overly self-centered. By following these winning tips, you can deliver an award acceptance speech that leaves a lasting impact.

Short Award Acceptance Speech Examples: Inspiring Examples

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How to Give an Award Acceptance Speech to Thank, Inspire and Impress

Let’s say you got nominated for an award and now you have to give an acceptance speech. It’s pretty important to give a good speech, no matter what you’re being awarded for. Looking good doesn’t hurt either!

So, how do you give a good acceptance speech for your award? First off, you should ask yourself what message you would like to convey to your audience.

Generally, an acceptance speech provides the speaker with an opportunity to not only thank the individuals who helped you win the award but also highlight ideas and issues that you care about and even inspire people to do something even bigger.

Which is why it’s important that you don’t mess up.

Writing a good speech, any kind of speech, requires a lot of time and preparation, in order to ensure that you are well prepared and have included any important details that you would prefer to not leave out.

Here are a few practical tips on how you can draw up your award acceptance speech.

What is an Award Acceptance Speech? 

This is a type of speech given by an individual who’s receiving a prize, honor or an award. It is an unwritten tradition to share gratitude to individuals who you’d like or acknowledge or thank by giving a few words.

Your audience may be made up of your family and friends but also individuals in your industry who you respect and admire, so when giving an acceptance speech, ensure you make the best of it. 

As compared to other speeches, an acceptance speech does not include a beginning , body or conclusion and doesn’t need a PowerPoint display. In addition to this, acceptance speeches aren’t allotted a lot of time as you would with a keynote speech, so you will have to make it short.

Acceptance speeches also provide you, the speaker who’s accepting the award, an opportunity to either make a great impression , no impression or a terrible one. So, you have to be careful with how you write up and give your speech.

What are the m ain Goals of an Acceptance Speech?

Your goals with regard to this speech should be to;

• Thank the individuals who helped you in whatever you did or in your career
• Center on one idea that you want to leave your audience with, whether it’s motivating them to work hard or inspiring them to follow their dreams
• Make a great impression

Since you’ll only have a few minutes to give your speech, focusing on one point or one of the most important lessons you’ve learnt in life is a good way to go.

Additionally, your speech should give your audience a favorable impression about you while also letting them know that you’ve thought about what you’ve said and that you’re respectful.

How to Write a Great Acceptance Speech

Most individuals who win an award start by thanking the individuals who helped them when they accept it.

There are many different ways of thanking people, so which one is applied in this context?   Being as specific as possible when thanking individuals is the best way to go.

Therefore, you should start by:

Be Specific

Thank people by telling them exactly what they did that assisted you

You should do this in a way that is meaningful. Saying “Thank you for your support” doesn’t really mean anything.

So instead, you should look at the individuals you mention and while addressing them by their names, thank them while telling them what exactly you are thanking them for.

For instance, you can say, “Lisa, you encouraged me after being rejected by 7 different publishing houses, you were there for me.”

This will make your speech much more interesting to your audience while also appearing sincere.

Pro-Tip: Make eye contact when thanking every individual while mentioning their name, as it will not only convey respect but also sincerity.  

Tell a story

Great award acceptance speeches usually tell stories. While the time allotted to give your speech may be short, 30 seconds is enough time to give a short story.

You can either;

• Recount an actual conversation you had with someone; be it a family member colleague or friend, about a challenge you had, how you conquered it and its relevance to the award you’re accepting.
• Talk about an encounter that happened

Keep in mind though that if you’ll be telling a story , ensure that its relevant to the award, it’s brief and that you tell it in a way that captivates your audience.

Now that we’ve discussed how to prepare for and write your acceptance speech, we can now look into how you will deliver that speech.

How to Prepare for an Award Acceptance Speech?

Nothing is worse than having no speech prepared when you win a major award; fumbling on stage in front of an audience is not a good thing for anyone.

It also shows the individuals who nominated you that you do not respect them, so take some time and prepare.

First and foremost,

Make your speech memorable

Many of the speeches given at award shows are short, so if it isn’t memorable, it can easily be forgotten.

Good thing is you have a lot of resources at your disposal, the biggest being the internet. Thank heavens for technology! Everyone, including yourself, wants to give a great speech . Looking up great acceptance speeches on YouTube will provide you with amazing examples of great speeches.

Most of these examples are short, as acceptance speeches should be. Besides this, they also seen genuine, contain an emotional moment and are funny.

You may not have a funny bone in your body, which is okay as being funny will entirely be dependent on what you’ll be talking about in your speech. So, no pressure.

Rehearse your speech

It may sound ridiculous to practice your acceptance speech, especially considering that it’s brief. However, this is a great way to modify your speech to your liking.

You can do this by recording yourself giving your speech using your camera or phone.

Looking through the recording will help you pick out what you don’t like and what you like about it. This allows you to repeat your speech as many times as you want while implementing the changes you’d like until you feel happy and comfortable with its final form.

Once you are satisfied with your final take, know you already have it in the bag; you’re going to give a great speech!

Pro-Tip: Practicing helps get rid of the jitters and helps you feel more confident in both yourself and your speech.

How To Deliver Your Acceptance Speech

When delivering your acceptance speech, ensure that it’s at least entertaining . It doesn’t have to make the audience laugh so much that their ribs hurt. However, it also shouldn’t be so boring that people doze off or make conversation while you address them.

So, first off,

Don’t Be Boring

If your speech doesn’t have a few jokes in it or isn’t funny, at least try to include some emotion or a dramatic moment. Boring speeches make people want to gorge their eyes out and seal their ears, so they don’t have to look at you and hear you drone on. Don’t subject your audience to unnecessary torture.

Be entertaining. At the very least, say something entertaining, interesting or amusing, even if you’ll be making fun of yourself.

If you are going to show emotion, don’t go overboard

Blubbering through your speech isn’t interesting, so try to keep it together. This is where practicing your speech comes in, it helps you show just the right amount of emotion while still conveying your message to the audience.

Pro-Tip: A little emotion goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.

Using what we have so far discussed, you should be able to not only write a great speech but also present your speech to your audience in a memorable way.

Now, let’s look at a few things to avoid when giving your acceptance speech.

What to avoid in an Award Acceptance Speech

• Do not tell your audience you don’t have a lot of time

This only uses up more time. Instead, use the time you’ve been given to the maximum advantage.

• Do  not tell your audience that you’re nervous

Even though you might be nervous , other people may not recognize that you are. So, there’s no need to waste valuable time.

By the way, deliberately pausing or speaking slowly helps you overcome any jitters you may have. Thank me later once you try this trick of the trade.

• Do  not thank too many people

Given that you’ll only have a few minutes to give your speech (at most), try to thank no more than five individuals.

You can send the people you didn’t thank on stage personal notes; that’s why such notes exist.

• Do  not read your speech from a piece of paper

Not only is this devoid of sincerity, emotion and personality but it also looks scripted . Again, practicing helps you capture your main points in mind.

In conclusion, it all comes down to being genuine when thanking individuals, entertaining and leaving your audience with a good life lesson or something that inspires them. Show your audience that you, indeed, were worthy of getting that award!

Module 11: Speaking to Entertain and for Special Occasions

Award and acceptance speeches, learning objectives.

Define the characteristics of award speech.

Identify characteristics of an acceptance speech.

Presenting an Award

In an award speech, a speaker or emcee introduces an award and the winner. The introduction is meant to build excitement, and often the winner is not known until just before the award is to be presented.

Introduce yourself and thank the group or organization asking you to speak. Then name the award and explain briefly about the award you are presenting. Be sure to include the scope of the award, be it local, regional, national, or international.

Next explain what the winner accomplished to win this award. Did they write a paper or did they lead for a cause? Did they grow the largest pumpkin, finish first in a marathon, or bring community groups together to fight for justice? Your job is to present the facts and summarize the story behind their story.

Lastly, if there are other people in attendance who were competing with the winner, make sure to acknowledge them in the time you were allotted. Be sure to finish with the actual award presentation to the person or team, raising your voice and starting the applause after inviting them to receive their award.

Accepting an Award

An acceptance speech often follows an award speech and is given by the winner of the award.

An acceptance speech, like any other speech, should be prepared in advance. Thanking the givers of your award is your first order of business. State how much and why you are grateful for this honor, and if possible, name the people in the organization individually.

Then thank and give credit to those who helped you achieve the award including family, friends, mentors, and others who supported you in this endeavor. Include their names, their roles, and how their combined efforts made it possible for you to receive this honor. If you can’t name all the individuals, name the groups as time will allow.

Briefly share what the honor of the award means to you, and be generous with your praise and your gratitude toward your colleagues and the organizations involved. Smile and carefully look for directions on leaving the stage.

To Watch: Berta Cáceres, Goldman Prize acceptance speech

Environmental and indigenous-rights activist Berta Cáceres, co-founder of the Council of Popular and Indigenous Organizations of Honduras (COPINH), won the Goldman Prize for grassroots environmental activism is 2015 after organizing the Lenca people of Honduras to force the world’s largest dam builder to pull out of the Agua Zarca Dam project on the Río Gualcarque. Tragically, Cáceres was assassinated the following year.

You can view the transcript for “Berta Caceres acceptance speech, 2015 Goldman Prize ceremony” here (opens in new window) .

What to watch for:

In the case of winning an award for a social cause (in this case, environmental activism), it is common to focus on the severity of the problem at hand—that is, to shift the focus from yourself to the problem you are fighting against. Note how Cáceres begins by framing the cause within the belief system and worldview of the Lenca people. She then explains the mission of the organization she helped to found. Next she turns to her call to action: “¡Despertemos¡ ¡Despertemos Humanidad¡ Ya no hay tiempo.” (Let us wake up! Let us wake up, humanity! We’re out of time.) The ending of her speech reminds us that gratitude and humility are the most important elements of an acceptance speech. If thanks aren’t in line with the gravity of the topic, a dedication can serve a similar purpose: “Dedico este premio a todas las rebeldías, a mi madre, al Pueblo Lenca, a Río Blanco y a las y los mártires por la defensa de los bienes naturales.” (I dedicate this award to all the rebels, to my mother, to the Lenca People, to the Río Blanco, and to all the martyrs who gave their lives in the struggle to defend our natural resources.)

• Berta Caceres acceptance speech, 2015 Goldman Prize ceremony. Provided by : Goldman Environmental Prize. Located at : https://youtu.be/AR1kwx8b0ms . License : Other . License Terms : Standard YouTube License
• Award and Acceptance Speeches. Authored by : Patricia Atkinson with Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution

Here’s How I Wrote an Acceptance Speech for My Big Day

Hrideep barot.

• Speech Writing

Hey there! Before Writing an acceptance speech, we must know what it is. Ever wonder what those fancy “thank you” speeches are all about when someone wins an award or does something awesome? Well, they’re called acceptance speeches, and they’re like a way of saying, “Hey, thanks for noticing my hard work!” Let’s dive in and see what makes these speeches special.

What Is An Acceptance Speech?

What is the purpose of an acceptance speech .

• Ways I Used To Write Acceptance Speech For My Big Day.

 Strategies I Used To Confidently Deliver My Speech.

Examples of how i wrote an acceptance speech for my big day.

• Some Iconic And Memorable Acceptance Speech Examples From Various Fields.
• Conclusion.

An acceptance speech is a formal statement given by an individual or a group of individuals who have been awarded or recognized for an achievement. During an acceptance speech, the speaker typically expresses gratitude, acknowledges the efforts of those who contributed to the achievement, and may share reflections on the significance of the award.

Acceptance speeches vary in length and style, but they generally convey appreciation, humility, and sometimes the speaker’s perspective on the work or accomplishment that led to the recognition.

Acceptance speeches are prevalent in various fields, including entertainment, sports, business, and academia, among others. In the context of entertainment, for example, actors may deliver acceptance speeches at awards shows. In business, leaders may give acceptance speeches when receiving industry accolades or recognition for corporate achievements.

The purpose of an acceptance speech is multi-faceted and extends beyond the mere act of acknowledging an award or recognition. Here are some key purposes:

1. Expressing Gratitude:

One of the primary purposes of an acceptance speech is to express gratitude. Recipients use this opportunity to thank individuals, groups, or organizations that played a role in their success . This can include colleagues, mentors, family members, and supporters.

2. Acknowledging Contributions:

Acceptance speeches allow awardees to recognize the efforts and contributions of others who have contributed to the recognized achievement. This acknowledgment not only shows appreciation but also highlights the collaborative nature of many accomplishments.

3. Connecting with the Audience:

Acceptance speeches provide a platform for the recipient to connect emotionally with the audience. By sharing personal reflections, stories, or sentiments, the speaker can create a more meaningful and memorable experience for those in attendance or watching.

4. Sharing Insights:

Awardees often use acceptance speeches to share insights into their journey, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they learned. This can be inspirational for others facing similar challenges and can contribute to a sense of shared experience.

5. Enhancing Professional Image:

A well-delivered acceptance speech can enhance the professional image of the recipient. It provides an opportunity to showcase not only the achievements being recognized but also the recipient’s communication skills, humility, and ability to connect with an audience.

6. Inspiring Others:

Acceptance speeches can serve as a source of inspiration for others in the audience or those who may later hear or read about the speech. The speaker may offer words of encouragement or share insights that motivate others to pursue their goals.

7. Celebrating Achievements:

Ultimately, acceptance speeches are a means of celebrating achievements. They allow individuals or groups to publicly revel in their success, creating a moment of joy and recognition for the hard work and dedication that led to the award.

An acceptance speech serves as a powerful communication tool that goes beyond a simple acknowledgment of an award. It is an opportunity for the recipient to connect with others, express gratitude, share insights, and inspire, contributing to a richer and more meaningful celebration of achievement.

Ways I Used To Write An Acceptance Speech For My Big Day.

1. begin with gratitude:.

Start your acceptance speech with a genuine expression of gratitude for the honor or award you are receiving. Convey your appreciation for being recognized, and consider mentioning the significance of the accolade in your personal or professional journey. This sets a positive tone for your speech and immediately engages the audience with your genuine emotions.

2. Identify Key Thank You’s:

Make a list of the individuals, groups, or organizations you want to thank. Delve into specific reasons why each person or group is being acknowledged. Share anecdotes or instances that highlight their contributions, making your expressions of gratitude more meaningful and personal. This not only shows your appreciation but also helps the audience connect with the people who have been instrumental in your success.

3. Personalize Your Thanks:

When expressing gratitude, personalize your thanks by sharing stories or moments that illustrate the impact of the support you received. Whether it’s a mentor’s guidance, a colleague’s collaboration, or a friend’s encouragement, adding a personal touch enhances the emotional resonance of your speech and makes it more memorable.

4. Acknowledge the Team:

If your achievement is a result of teamwork, emphasize the collaborative effort that contributed to the success. Acknowledge the collective dedication and hard work of your team members. Highlight specific instances of collaboration and cooperation , showcasing the strength of working together toward a common goal.

5. Share Your Journey:

Briefly share key aspects of your journey that led to this moment. Focus on significant milestones, challenges overcome, and pivotal moments. This narrative not only provides context for the audience but also adds depth to your speech, allowing them to connect with your experiences and better understand the journey that led to your recognition.

6. Highlight the Significance:

Explain why this recognition holds particular significance for you. Connect the award to your personal or professional values, goals, or aspirations. Share how it aligns with your passions or the mission that drives you. This adds depth to your speech, allowing the audience to appreciate the meaningful connection between you and the recognition you’re receiving.

7. Inject Humor (if appropriate):

Adding a touch of humor can make your speech more engaging and endearing. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the humor is contextually appropriate for the occasion and audience. Consider incorporating lighthearted anecdotes or playful remarks that align with the celebratory atmosphere, being mindful not to detract from the significance of the moment.

8. Be Concise:

Keep your acceptance speech concise and focused. While it’s essential to express your gratitude and share insights, avoid going into excessive detail or wandering off-topic. Aim for a speech that is impactful but not overly lengthy , respecting the time constraints of the event and maintaining the audience’s interest throughout.

9. Practice Your Delivery:

Practice delivering your speech to refine your tone, pace, and pauses. This ensures a smooth and confident presentation, allowing you to connect with the audience effectively. Pay attention to your body language, gestures, and overall delivery, making adjustments as needed to enhance your communication and convey authenticity.

10. Consider Your Audience:

Tailor your speech to the specific audience and occasion. Consider the atmosphere of the event, the expectations of the audience, and the nature of the recognition. Adjust your tone, language, and content to resonate with the people in attendance, creating a speech that feels relevant and relatable to the moment.

11. End on a Positive Note:

Conclude your speech on a positive and uplifting note. Express your excitement for the future, convey your commitment to building upon the success that led to the recognition, or share inspiring words that leave a lasting impression. Ending on a positive note leaves the audience with a sense of celebration and optimism.

12. Express Genuine Emotion:

Allow your genuine emotions to come through in your speech. Whether it’s joy, gratitude, humility, or a combination of emotions, authenticity enhances the impact of your words. Share your feelings with sincerity, allowing the audience to connect with the real and human aspects of your experience. Genuine emotion creates a more profound connection and resonates with the audience on a personal level.

1. Thorough Preparation:

Confidence is rooted in thorough preparation. By extensively researching your topic, gathering relevant information, and organizing your thoughts, you build a solid foundation for your speech. Rehearsing multiple times allows you to internalize the content, ensuring that you can deliver it smoothly and with conviction. Preparedness provides a safety net, helping you feel in control and ready to address any challenges that may arise during your presentation.

2. Visualize Success:

Visualization serves as a mental rehearsal, allowing you to envision yourself delivering a successful speech. By vividly imagining positive outcomes, you create a positive mindset that counteracts anxiety. Visualizing success helps build confidence by reinforcing your belief in your ability to deliver a compelling and impactful presentation.

3. Controlled Breathing:

Deep and controlled breathing is a proven technique to manage anxiety and enhance composure. Before stepping onto the stage, practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves. During the speech, incorporate controlled breathing pauses to maintain a steady rhythm and project confidence. Controlled breathing serves as a physiological anchor, helping you stay focused and composed.

4. Effective Body Language:

Confident body language is a non-verbal communication tool that complements your spoken words. Maintain good posture to exude confidence, make purposeful gestures to emphasize key points, and establish eye contact with the audience to convey authenticity. Thoughtful and intentional body language enhances your overall presentation, fostering a sense of confidence and connection with your listeners.

5. Connect with the Audience:

Establishing a connection with your audience is pivotal for a confident presentation. Make eye contact with different individuals, smile, and gauge the audience’s reactions. Building a rapport with your listeners creates a supportive atmosphere, boosting your confidence and making your delivery more engaging and relatable.

6. Focus on the Message, Not Perfection:

Rather than striving for perfection, focus on delivering your message authentically . Embrace the natural flow of conversation and understand that minor imperfections contribute to your human appeal. Prioritizing the authenticity of your message over flawless delivery enables you to connect with your audience on a deeper level, fostering confidence in your ability to communicate effectively.

7. Know Your Audience:

Tailoring your speech to the preferences and interests of your audience is key to a confident presentation. Understanding their expectations allows you to adjust your tone and content, making it more likely that your message will resonate and be well-received. Connecting with your audience on a personal level contributes to a confident and impactful delivery.

8. Utilize Visual Aids (if applicable):

If your speech includes visual aids, ensure they are well-prepared and seamlessly integrated into your presentation. Practice incorporating them into your speech, maintaining a smooth flow, and avoiding disruptions. Confidence in handling visual aids enhances the overall professionalism of your presentation, contributing to a more assured delivery.

9. Seek Constructive Feedback:

Actively seeking constructive feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors is a valuable strategy for continual improvement. Constructive feedback provides insights into areas for refinement and enhancement, allowing you to address any concerns and refine your delivery. This iterative process contributes to increased confidence in your speaking abilities over time.

 You can read this if you want powerful ways to write a speech. 

Let’s imagine a scenario where you’ve won an award for your outstanding contributions to your community. Here are some examples of how you might write an acceptance speech for that big day:

Example 1: Gratitude and Community Focus

Thank you all so much! I am beyond honored to receive this award. First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the amazing community that I am proud to be a part of. It’s the support and collaboration of each person here that has made all the difference. Big thanks to [Name] for believing in me and [Name] for being my constant cheerleader.

This award is not just for me; it’s for all of us who come together to make our community stronger. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this incredible honor. Let’s continue working hand in hand for the betterment of our community.

Example 2: Personal Stories and Acknowledgments

Wow, this is truly unexpected! I want to share a little story with you all. A while back, [mention a personal story or challenge]. It was your unwavering support that got me through those tough times. So, this award is as much yours as it is mine.

A massive shout-out to [Name] for being my rock and [Name] for those inspiring conversations that fueled my passion. To my family and friends, your encouragement kept me going. Thank you for being my pillars of strength.

Example 3: Humor and Appreciation

Well, well, well, this is a surprise! I’ve always dreamed of being on this stage, but I never thought I’d be holding this shiny trophy. Thanks a bunch! I have to say, this award is like the cherry on top of the sundae, and you all are the sprinkles that make it extra special.

To the incredible team I get to work with every day, you guys are the real MVPs. And to my [mention a supportive person], I owe you a lifetime supply of coffee for those late-night brainstorming sessions. Thanks for keeping me caffeinated and inspired! Cheers to us!

Feel free to mix and match elements from these examples based on the tone and style you prefer for your acceptance speech.

Some Iconic And Memorable Acceptance Speech Examples From Various Fields .

1. oprah winfrey – golden globes (2018):.

In her acceptance of the Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award, Oprah Winfrey delivered a powerful and inspiring speech addressing issues of injustice, inequality, and the #MeToo movement, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against abuse.

“I want all the girls watching here and now to know that a new day is on the horizon, and when that new day finally dawns, it will be because of a lot of magnificent women, many of whom are right here in this room tonight, and some pretty phenomenal men, fighting hard to make sure that they become the leaders who take us to the time when nobody ever has to say ‘Me too’ again.”

2. Steve Jobs – Stanford University Commencement Speech (2005):

While not a traditional award acceptance speech, Jobs’ commencement address is widely regarded as one of the most motivational and impactful speeches. He shared personal anecdotes, and lessons learned, and encouraged graduates to pursue their passions and stay hungry for success.

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.”

3. Tom Hanks – Academy Awards (1995):

Tom Hanks, upon winning the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in “Forrest Gump,” delivered a heartwarming speech, expressing gratitude to his family and colleagues. He also humorously acknowledged the heavy competition and the “young man” who lost to him, suggesting he’d get another chance.

“I am standing here because the woman I share my life with has taught me and demonstrates for me every day just what love is. […] You’re a dope if you don’t steal from everybody you ever worked with, and I have stolen from the likes of the people that only need one name like Meryl, Denzel, and Meg. Even, I’m sorry, even Wilson the volleyball.”

4. Emma Watson – MTV Trailblazer Award (2013):

Emma Watson’s acceptance speech for the MTV Trailblazer Award focused on gender equality. She urged both men and women to embrace feminism and spoke about her journey as an actress and activist, emphasizing the importance of unity in achieving social change.

“I think it’s right I’m standing here because I’m an English girl and I love English weather, but I moved to America, and I did believe that I’d left all of British politeness and reserve across the Atlantic. […] This is not a game. It’s a real and important movement that is happening right now. It’s really exciting. I’m thrilled to be part of it.”

5. J.K. Rowling – Harvard University Commencement Speech (2008):

J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, delivered a commencement address at Harvard. She spoke about the benefits of failure and the importance of imagination and empathy, offering valuable life lessons to the graduating class.

These speeches stand out for their sincerity, eloquence, and often for addressing broader societal issues. They serve as examples of how acceptance speeches can go beyond simple acknowledgments and resonate with audiences on a deeper level.

Conclusion .

Alright, so when it’s your turn to step up and give an acceptance speech, think of it as your time to shine even brighter. It’s not just about saying thank you; it’s about making everyone feel the joy and excitement that comes with your achievement.

Remember, keep it short and sweet. Share a laugh if you can, and wrap it up on a positive note. Your speech is like the cherry on top of your big day, making it even more special. So, go ahead, speak from the heart, and let your gratitude and happiness light up the room. Congratulations again on your awesome accomplishment, and may your speech be the talk of the town!

Powerful speech opening lines set the tone and mood of your speech. Hence you can listen to this to learn more about ways to hook your audience-

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What Not to Do If You Win an Oscar

A Hollywood speechwriter on what makes for a great—or a terrible—moment at the mic

The moment an artist wins an Oscar or a Grammy or a Tony, they are handed two things: some kind of statue (sure, nice) and, perhaps more important, 45 seconds—maybe a minute, two tops—of live, relatively unbridled stage time with millions of people watching. They can use that time however they choose, thanking their parents, thanking their agents, thanking God, advocating for causes, crying. After that the music will play.

Wendy Shanker is a writer with a niche skill: She helps celebrity clients draft acceptance speeches so that they can maximize these high-adrenaline, high-profile moments.

Shanker told me that she once found herself moved to tears when a client seemed to be forgoing the drafted speech in favor of something else—only to suddenly realize that Shanker herself had in fact written the words in question. “She’s such a phenomenal actress that I didn’t even recognize my own writing,” Shanker said.

Ahead of this weekend’s Oscars, Shanker and I caught up by phone to discuss the art of acceptance speeches (keep the thank-you list short, she says) and her biggest pet peeve (reading off a phone).

Our conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity.

Caroline Mimbs Nyce: Let’s pretend you get hired by a new A-list client tomorrow. Walk me through your process.

Wendy Shanker: My process is to try and do a lot of research and to get to know that person’s voice as well as I can before I actually connect with them directly. So I’m reading interviews and watching videos. The best is when I do get to work directly with that client as opposed to going through a publicist or a manager. Just even having a really brief conversation with somebody, I can really hear really, really quickly what it is that they want to say and the voice that they want to say it in. And I can also provide a little bit of guidance to them on what might work and what might not work.

A good example of this would be I wrote an acceptance speech—this wasn’t a televised show; this was a private event. A woman was being honored, and her team had said, “Look, whatever you do, don’t talk about her mother.” Her mother is also famous. “Don’t make this about her mother.” I went, “Okay, okay, okay.” And then I got 10 minutes with my client on the phone. And the first thing she said is, “I really just wanted to talk about my mother.”

Read: The speeches that saved the Golden Globes

Nyce: Do you think they were trying to keep her from it?

Shanker: I don’t think they were trying to keep her from it. I just think nobody knows the heart and soul of what that person wants to say in the moment except for that person.

Nyce: Do you ever get intervening agents telling you, “Don’t let them say that. Cut that line”?

Shanker: Yeah, that happens a lot. Most representatives are trying to protect their clients. But a lot of what I do is get this very busy person to focus in on this thing they know is coming and haven’t really thought about. Just like any of us lowly humans, they procrastinate. The conversation with me gives them time to shut out all the other noise and focus on What is it that I really want to say?

Nyce: About how long are acceptance speeches usually?

Shanker: It depends on the show. For a network show that’s airing live, the time is tight; it is 45 seconds or 60 seconds. While the person on the stage is accepting the honor, there are the producers backstage trying to figure out how long they’re going to let them talk. Maybe it says 45 seconds on the clock, but if you’re saying something really good or you’re a legend in the industry, they’re going to let you go a little longer. I’ll also say from the producing side of it that nobody ever wants to cut anybody off.

A lot of people don’t want to prepare because they think they’re going to hex it. And I would like to congratulate anybody who thinks they have the magical-thinking power to win or lose an Oscar by preparing a speech or not preparing a speech.

Nyce: How much can you fit into 45 seconds?

Shanker: I advise clients to have one central thought, especially one that could be connected to your performance or your album or the theme of the project that you were in—something that speaks to a social or cultural issue connected to the work that you are being honored for.

I really, really encourage people to limit the thank-you list. If there’s one special thank you that you want to give out—to your parents or to your fifth-grade theater teacher or to the real-life person whom you were portraying on screen—great! But we don’t need to hear about your agent’s assistant’s assistant’s Uber driver. If you are going to go the list way, write them down, practice it, get everybody in there. “Oh, I’m going to forget somebody!” I should never hear that from you onstage.

Read: My favorite awards-season ritual

Nyce: This gets at the question of “Who are award speeches for?” The people in the room or the audiences at home?

Shanker: We all know that the numbers of people watching awards shows are sinking. And I think that’s because we have so much access to a lot of these people that we laud all the time. The Oscars might have been the only time in a year when I would get to hear Barbra Streisand say something. But now Barbra’s tweeting.

I think people get excited about the pageantry of it. I think people still get excited about films and albums and Broadway shows that mean something to us and mean something to the culture, that give us something that we didn’t have before.

And there’s still so much coverage of these shows. We get excited when our beloved film wins and frustrated when it goes the wrong way. So they continue to have a lot of cultural worth, even if they’re losing the numbers.

Nyce: What have you noticed about the acceptance speeches this season? Are there any that have stood out to you?

Shanker: I do think there’s real joy in seeing people who have been in the industry for a long time and haven’t been recognized speak. Ke Huy Quan has this amazing comeback story, and that’s what a lot of his speeches have centered on. Michelle Yeoh is talking about inclusion and representation in a really wonderful way. It’s thrilling and exciting to hear Jamie Lee Curtis say , “I’m 64, and this is just amazing.” Sheryl Lee Ralph bursting into song —completely memorable. Watching Jennifer Coolidge get a lot of awards in this cycle has been super fun because she’s another person who’s worked for decades in an industry that hasn’t always been kind and generous to her or to her talent. When she’s up there, I think she’s being very genuine, and she’s also savvy about giving the audience what they want.

Nyce: What are some of your acceptance-speech pet peeves?

Shanker: My No. 1 pet peeve is going onstage with your cellphone. To me, it just seems unprepared and casual; it doesn’t step up to the intensity and honor of the moment.

The other thing that really bugs me is false humility. When people approach and go, “I just didn’t think I’d … Who, me?” It’s like, You were nominated. You campaigned for it. You’ve spent months wining and dining and talking to people. You’ve been standing in front of a mirror with a hairbrush since you were 4 years old. This is not a shock. Humility is wonderful, but false humility is annoying.

How to Craft the Perfect Elevator Speech in 2024 (With Examples)

• The Speaker Lab
• May 6, 2024

Table of Contents

Have you ever gotten onto an elevator with someone important and wished you had more time to talk to them? Or maybe you’re at a networking event and only have a few short minutes to introduce yourself to someone you’ve always wanted to connect with. In life, there are many situations where you only have a few seconds to make an impression that lasts. That’s where your elevator speech comes in. Today, we’ll explore the art of crafting the perfect elevator pitch—one that’s clear, concise, and compelling. Here’s how to make every second matter so that you’re unforgettable to anyone lucky enough to cross paths with you.

What Is an Elevator Speech?

You’ve probably heard the term “elevator speech” thrown around, but what exactly does it mean? An elevator speech (or elevator pitch) is a brief, persuasive speech that you use to introduce yourself, your product, or your company. In addition, you should also try to provide a short overview of your own background and experience.

As the name suggests, your elevator speech should be short enough to present during a quick elevator ride. Practically, that means you only have about 30-60 seconds to communicate your unique skills and what you can offer to a company or organization. The goal? To share your knowledge and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don’t know you.

Importance of Having a Strong Elevator Speech

Think of an elevator speech as a personal sales pitch. Having a strong, well-crafted elevator pitch can help you stand out from the crowd, whether you’re at a networking event, job interview, or just meeting someone new. It’s a great way to make a positive first impression and leave people wanting to know more about you.

You can use your elevator pitch in a variety of situations, such as:

• Job interviews
• Career fairs
• Networking events
• Professional conferences
• Social gatherings

Basically, anytime you need to introduce yourself professionally, an elevator pitch comes in handy. It’s a valuable tool to have in your career toolkit.

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Key Elements of a Memorable Elevator Speech

So, what makes a good elevator speech? All told, there are several key elements, such as clarity, an explanation of your unique skills, a call to action, and confidence. Let’s break down these key components and look at them more closely.

Clarity and Conciseness

Firstly, your elevator pitch should be clear and concise. Avoid using industry jargon or complex language that might confuse your listener. Keep it simple and to the point.

Unique Value Proposition

What sets you apart from others in your field? Your answer to this question forms your unique value proposition (UVP). In your elevator speech, highlight your UVP—in other words, anything that makes you stand out. For instance, maybe you have a special skill, experience, or perspective. Focus on what makes you memorable and valuable.

Call to Action

End your pitch with a specific call to action. What do you want the person to do after hearing your pitch? Do you want them to visit your website, schedule a meeting, or connect on LinkedIn? Make it clear what the next steps are.

Confidence and Enthusiasm

How you say it is just as important as what you say. Accordingly, deliver your pitch with confidence and enthusiasm. Smile, make eye contact, and speak clearly. Let your passion for what you do shine through.

Crafting Your Elevator Speech

Now that you know the key elements of an elevator speech, let’s talk about how to actually craft one.

Identifying Your Target Audience

Before you start writing your pitch, think about who you’ll be delivering it to. Are you targeting potential employers, clients, or investors? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your message to their needs and interests.

Highlighting Your Skills and Experiences

Your elevator pitch should showcase your most relevant skills and experiences. Think about what makes you unique and valuable to your target audience, then use specific examples and achievements to back up your claims.

For example, instead of saying “I’m a great communicator,” you could say “I have five years of experience in public relations, and I’ve secured media placements in top publications like Forbes and The New York Times .”

Tailoring Your Pitch to the Situation

You may need to slightly adjust your pitch depending on the situation. For example, your pitch for a job interview might focus more on your work experience and career goals. In contrast, your pitch for a networking event might focus more on your personal brand and interests.

Practicing and Refining Your Pitch

Once you have a draft of your elevator pitch, practice delivering it out loud. Time yourself to make sure it’s no longer than 60 seconds. Along the way, pay attention to your pacing, tone, and body language.

Ask a friend or colleague for feedback and keep refining your pitch until it feels natural and compelling. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel delivering it in real-life situations.

Delivering Your Elevator Speech Effectively

Once you’ve crafted a killer elevator speech, it’s time to deliver it with impact. But how do you do that? Below we have some tips for perfecting your delivery.

Body Language and Nonverbal Communication

When giving your elevator speech, your body language can speak louder than your words. Stand up straight, make eye contact, and smile. Use hand gestures sparingly in order to add emphasis to your points. Finally, avoid crossing your arms or fidgeting, as these can make you appear nervous or closed off.

Speaking Clearly and Confidently

Speak at a moderate pace and enunciate your words clearly. Vary your tone and inflection in order to keep your listener engaged. Most importantly, project confidence even if you’re feeling nervous. Remember, you know your stuff!

Engaging Your Listener

Tailor your pitch to the person you’re speaking with. For instance, use their name, ask them questions, and try to make a personal connection. Show genuine interest in their thoughts and feedback. The more engaged they are, the more likely they’ll remember you and your message.

Being Prepared for Follow-up Questions

Your elevator speech is just the beginning of the conversation. Once you’ve shared about yourself and your work, be ready to expand on your points and answer any questions the person may have. Anticipate common questions and have thoughtful responses prepared.

If you don’t know the answer to something, don’t give in to nervousness! Instead, be honest and offer to follow up with more information later. The goal is to keep the conversation going and build a relationship beyond the initial pitch.

Examples of Effective Elevator Speeches

Crafting an elevator speech can be tricky if you’ve never done it before. To help you out, we’ve come up with a few example pitches. While they might not match your situation perfectly, they’ll definitely give you a good place to start.

For Job Seekers

“Hi, my name is Sarah and I’m a recent graduate from XYZ University with a degree in marketing. During my internship at ABC Company, I led a social media campaign that increased brand engagement by 25%. I’m passionate about digital marketing and I’m excited to apply my skills to help companies grow their online presence. I saw that your company is looking for a social media coordinator and I think I’d be a great fit. I’d love to schedule a time to discuss further how I can contribute to your team.”

For Entrepreneurs

“Hi, I’m Tom and I’m the founder of 123 App, a mobile app that helps busy professionals manage their time more effectively. Our app uses AI technology to create personalized schedules and to-do lists based on the user’s goals and habits. We launched only six months ago but have already gained over 10,000 active users. Our user engagement and retention rates are three times higher than the industry average. We’re currently seeking investment to scale our marketing efforts and expand our team. I’d be happy to share more details about our growth plans and revenue projections.”

For Professionals Seeking Career Advancement

“Hi, I’m Maria and I’m a sales manager at XYZ Corporation. I’ve been with the company for five years and have consistently exceeded my sales targets by an average of 20%. Last quarter, I led my team to close the biggest deal in the company’s history, bringing in $2 million in new revenue. I’m looking for opportunities to take on more leadership responsibilities and eventually move into a director role. I’m particularly interested in your company’s plans for international expansion and I think my experience could be an asset. I’d love to grab coffee and discuss potential opportunities.”

For Students and Recent Graduates

“Hi, I’m Alex and I’m a senior at XYZ University majoring in computer science. Last summer, I interned at ABC Tech where I worked on developing a new software feature that reduced processing time by 30%. I also served as the president of our university’s coding club, where I organized hackathons and coding workshops for over 500 students. I’m passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems so I’m excited to start a career in software development. I admire your company’s mission and the innovative products you’re creating. I would love the opportunity to learn more about your team and any entry-level positions you may have available.”

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Elevator Speech

In addition to including key elements to your elevator speech, it’s just as important to avoid common mistakes. For instance, being vague, talking too fast, and failing to practice your pitch are all things you want to avoid.

Being Too Generic or Vague

Avoid using buzzwords or generic statements that could apply to anyone. Instead, focus on what makes you unique and provide specific examples to back up your claims.

Talking Too Fast or Rambling

You only have about 60 seconds to make an impression in your elevator speech. However, that doesn’t means you should try to talk fast so you can say more. Instead, speak clearly and concisely, and don’t try to cram too much information into your pitch. In addition, practice beforehand and time yourself to ensure you’re staying within the appropriate time frame.

Failing to Tailor Your Pitch to Your Audience

One size does not fit all when it comes to elevator pitches. As such, make sure you’re tailoring your message to the specific person or audience you’re speaking to. Do your research ahead of time in order to find common ground or shared interests.

Neglecting to Practice and Refine Your Pitch

Whatever you do, don’t wing it. The more you practice your elevator pitch, the more natural and confident you’ll sound. Seek feedback from friends, colleagues, or mentors and keep refining your pitch until it feels authentic and compelling.

Adapting Your Elevator Speech for Different Situations

Your elevator pitch is not a one-and-done deal. You’ll likely need to adapt it for different situations and audiences. Below, we’ve laid out some common scenarios where you might use a slightly different version of your pitch.

Networking Events and Career Fairs

At networking events and career fairs, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a lot of people in a short amount of time. Your pitch should be brief and memorable, focusing on your key skills and career goals. Be ready to follow up with a request to connect on LinkedIn or grab coffee to discuss further.

Job Interviews and Career Conversations

In a job interview or career conversation, you’ll have more time to expand on your elevator pitch. Be prepared to go into more detail about your experiences and accomplishments, and how they relate to the specific role or company you’re interested in. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in order to structure your examples.

Social Settings and Casual Encounters

Not every elevator pitch will be formal or business-related. For instance, you might find yourself chatting with someone at a social event or in line at the coffee shop. In these casual settings, focus on building rapport and finding common interests. Your pitch might be as simple as “I’m a graphic designer who loves working with startups. What about you?”

Online Platforms and Virtual Interactions

In today’s digital age, your elevator pitch might take place over email, LinkedIn, or even Twitter. When crafting an online pitch, focus on brevity and clarity. Use strong subject lines, bullet points, and clear calls-to-action. Include links to your website, portfolio, or LinkedIn profile for more information.

No matter the situation, remember that your elevator pitch is a starting point for a larger conversation. So be authentic, be memorable, and be ready to adapt on the fly. With practice and refinement, you’ll be able to craft an elevator pitch that opens doors and helps you achieve your career goals.

FAQs on Elevator Speeches

What is an example of an elevator speech.

“I’m a digital marketing expert with 5 years boosting website traffic by 70%. Let’s chat about skyrocketing your online presence.”

What are the 3 parts of an elevator speech?

The three parts: Hook them in, showcase your value, and close with a call to action.

What is a good 30 second elevator speech?

“I blend tech skills and sales insight to increase B2B software sales. I’ve helped my current team exceed targets by 40% for two years. Want to know how I can do this for you?”

What is the elevator speech approach?

This approach means selling yourself or your idea quickly and effectively during brief encounters—think making big impacts in short chats.

A strong elevator speech is a powerful tool that you can use to build strong connections and grow your career or business, but creating one is harder than it looks. If you follow these simple tips, you’ll end up with an elevator speech that will open doors, spark conversations, and leave a lasting impact. It’s time to go be great!

• Last Updated: May 6, 2024

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Promotion Acceptance Speech

It goes without saying, a promotion is always something employees look forward to. Especially those who have worked for years,  and have been working hard to get to a certain level. So what happens if you are chosen for the promotion? Does one expect to say a few words and thank everyone? It may be to some but a few or some employers expect their employees to make a speech . If this is the case, here are some 3+ promotion acceptance speech examples you can download. 

3+ Promotion Acceptance Speech Examples

1. promotion award acceptance speech.

Size: 121 KB

2. Reading Promotion Acceptance Speech

Size: 109 KB

3. Promotion Achievement Acceptance Speech

Size: 118 KB

4. Promotion Acceptance Reception Speech

Size: 17 KB

Defining Promotion

Defining the term promotion , this refers to the whole set of activities. The act of inspiring people to do something or to inspire something to happen. Another definition also means to raise someone to a higher rank in a company. To ascend to a better place or role. To be given a better job position than the one they are currently in.

Defining Acceptance

Acceptance means the act of receiving something that has been offered to you. This could be a positive or a negative thing offered. In this case, a promotion on the job. Another meaning could be the action of believing or accepting something that is said to you. Whether this may be a theory or a fact.

Defining the Word Speech

To define the word speech in a simpler one, this means a form of uttering a language or a dialect. The ability to speak or talk. Speech can also mean a formal lecture often given by people during social gatherings.

Importance of Acceptance Speeches

The purpose or the importance of making an acceptance speech is to simply say thank you. To show you are grateful for the opportunity that was given to you. Acceptance speeches are mostly given during social events where you are taking an award or a promotion from work.

Tips for Writing Acceptance Speeches

It is without a doubt that once you accept something whether it is a promotion from a job, or an award for doing a good job, people expect you to make a speech. Writing speeches is easy if you have something to follow or to use as a guide. Here are some tips for you to know how to write a good acceptance speech for that job promotion . 

• Think What You Want To Say : Before you write that thank you speech, think about what you want to say. To whom are you  addressing the speech for. What is the purpose of your speech? Once you have done the thinking, draft your speech.
• Draft and Check: Once you draft your speech . Make sure you add everything that you want to say. Also check the tone of your writing. Do not sound too pompous nor too passive. Make the tone sound professional.
• Write the final piece:  Drafting and checking if your ideas are all in one place, start writing the final piece. This is where you are going to be finalizing and placing your ideas in the right place.
• Revision is Key: After the draft and checking everything is in place, only revise your speech if you think there is something that needs to be done. Revise if you think it’s time consuming, if it’s too short, if the tone of your speech makes you too pompous or too passive.
• Practice: Practice once you are done writing. Ask a friend to help you with this and let them give you feedback.

Tips for Presenting Your Speech

Once you are done writing your acceptance speech, the next thing you are about to do is to present it. So here are some tips you can use to learn how to present your speech .

• Make Eye Contact: The best way to engage with your audiences is to make eye contact. Draw your audience in. Even a single person can make a ripple effect. If you are able to bring one person’s interest with simple eye contact, chances are you will be able to bring the rest of the audience’s attention to you. To do this, eye contact has to be consistent.
• Voice and Tone: Your voice has to be loud enough for everyone to hear. But do not shout. Also avoid whispering as this can cause your audiences to question you. Chances are, they may lose interest if they cannot hear you. Watch your tone as well. When you present your speech, do not sound too proud or too self belittling. Keep everything as professional as possible .
• Share your experience: Share some of your experiences in achieving this promotion to your audience. Let them feel and understand that with all you have done, you were able to be where you are now.
• Share a quote: To lessen the dead air when you make your speech, share a quote or an anecdote that is connected with what you are talking about.
• Copy of Speech: As much as possible, be familiar with your speech. Avoid bringing the whole page of your speech in front. Eye contact is still a must here.

Why should I not be proud about my promotion?

Do not be too proud of the fact you got promoted, rather be professional. Your boss has the right to take away the promotion if he or she sees you are not fit for the promotion. Be professional.

Can I avoid doing a speech when accepting my promotion?

Your boss may want you to make a speech or say a few good words. But in case you need to say something, it’s best to be ready.

Can I share my tips to getting promoted to my fellow employees through my speech?

Yes. It is actually nice to be able to share some ways of getting a promotion to your fellow colleagues.

Do I need to sound engaging in my speech?

Yes. As much as possible, engage with your audience as well.

How can I memorize a speech I just made?

Be familiar with your speech.

Congratulations to the people who have achieved great success, and to those who are still on the run, don’t give up. This introduction can also be a part of your speech as you are encouraging your fellow colleagues. But remember, a good acceptance speech comes from within. Be grateful, be thankful, encourage others and simply have fun.

Promotion Acceptance Speech Generator

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Create a promotion acceptance speech for a new manager position

Help me write a promotion acceptance speech for a lead teacher role