what to include in an acceptance speech

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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 1,104,505 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 A Good Acceptance Speech?

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Achieving an award is an incredible honor. Now comes the moment to deliver an acceptance speech before an audience. 

While it might seem straightforward at first, writing an impactful acceptance speech can be tough. Standing in the spotlight, ready to express your gratitude, can be nerve-wracking. 

However, with the right guidance, your acceptance speech can become a memorable and heartfelt experience for both you and your listeners. This blog will provide you with examples and tips to help you write an outstanding acceptance speech that genuinely reflects your appreciation for your audience.

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

 Let's get started!

• 1. What is an Acceptance Speech?
• 2. Steps to Write an Acceptance Speech
• 3. Acceptance Speech Examples 
• 4. Acceptance Speech Ideas
• 5. Tips for Acceptance Speech Writing

What is an Acceptance Speech?

In speech writing an acceptance speech is basically a speech you give when you receive an award or recognition. It’s your chance to thank those who helped you get there, share your feelings, and maybe even inspire others. 

It’s not just about saying thanks; it’s about connecting with your audience and leaving a positive impression. 

An acceptance speech is distinct from other types of speech in its purpose and focus. While it does share elements with special occasion speech and commemorative speech , its primary aim is to express gratitude upon receiving an award.

The Elements of Good Acceptance Speeches 

Good acceptance speeches share several key elements that make them memorable and effective:

• Gratitude: Sincerely thank supporters and contributors.
• Humility: Acknowledge collective efforts.
• Personal Touch: Share relatable anecdotes.
• Inspiration: Offer positive messages and lessons.
• Clarity and Conciseness: Stay focused and avoid excess.
• Emotional Connection: Speak with sincerity and passion.
• Memorable Closing: End with impact or lasting impression.

Steps 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:

Step 1: Immediately Begin With a Thank You

Start 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.

Step 2: 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.

Step 3: 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.

Step 4: 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. 

Step 5: 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.

Step 6: 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's a sample of the best short acceptance speech :

Short acceptance speeches like this one are concise yet convey sincere gratitude and humility, leaving a positive impression on the audience.

Here's an example of the longest acceptance speech . Let's use it to contrast with the short one.

Let’s take a look at some more excellent examples in PDF format:

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. 

Famous Acceptance Speeches 

Here are five famous acceptance speeches known for their memorable and impactful nature:

• Oprah Winfrey - 2018 Golden Globe Awards : Oprah Winfrey's acceptance speech for the Cecil B. DeMille Award highlighted issues of racial and gender inequality, making it a powerful call-to-action.
• Emma Watson - 2013 MTV Movie Awards : Emma Watson's acceptance speech for the Trailblazer Award focused on gender equality and the importance of breaking stereotypes.
• Tom Hanks - 1994 Academy Awards : Tom Hanks' acceptance speech for Best Actor in "Philadelphia" included a touching tribute to those affected by HIV/AIDS, emphasizing compassion and understanding.
• J.K. Rowling - 2008 Harvard University Commencement : J.K. Rowling's acceptance speech for the Harvard Alumni Association's Annual Meeting focused on the benefits of failure and the importance of imagination.
• Ellen DeGeneres - 2012 Mark Twain Prize for American Humor : Ellen DeGeneres' acceptance speech for the Mark Twain Prize was heartfelt and humorous, reflecting on her journey as a comedian and the impact of laughter on society.

Some may confuse farewell speeches with acceptance speeches due to their shared themes of gratitude and reflection, but their distinct purposes—farewell to bid adieu versus acceptance to acknowledge recognition—set them apart.

Acceptance Speech Ideas

Here are ten ideas for acceptance speeches that you can consider:

• Gratitude for an Award or Recognition
• Reflections on Personal Growth and Achievements
• Acknowledgment of Supportive Individuals or Teams
• Impact of the Award on Career or Personal Journey
• Commitment to Further Excellence or Contribution
• Inspiration from Role Models or Mentors
• Importance of the Award in Professional Development
• Reflections on Challenges Overcome to Achieve the Award
• Impact of the Award on Community or Industry
• Vision for the Future and Goals Moving Forward

Best Acceptance Speech Quotes

Here are some quotes you can use as prompts to begin your acceptance speech.

• "Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul." - Henry Ward Beecher
• "Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance." - Eckhart Tolle
• "Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success." - Albert Schweitzer
• "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." - Winston Churchill
• "It takes a village to raise a child." - African Proverb
• "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." - Steve Jobs
• "Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well." - Voltaire
• "The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness." - Dalai Lama
• "Gratitude turns what we have into enough." - Anonymous
• "The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate." - Oprah Winfrey

Acceptance Speech Starters

Here are some acceptance speech starters to begin your speech with impact:

• "Thank you all for this incredible honor..."
• "I am deeply humbled to receive this award..."
• "I am honored and grateful to stand before you today..."
• "It is with great humility that I accept this prestigious award..."
• "I am truly privileged to be recognized in this way..."
• "I want to express my sincere gratitude to [organization/event] for this recognition..."
• "What an incredible moment this is for me..."
• "I am profoundly thankful for this meaningful recognition..."
• "I am filled with gratitude as I accept this award..."
• "I am both honored and humbled to receive this distinguished award..."

Tips for Acceptance Speech Writing

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

• Start Early: Begin preparing your speech well ahead of time to allow for reflection and revisions.
• Respectful Tone: Use polite language throughout to show appreciation and respect.
• Keep It Brief: Aim for brevity; acceptance speeches are typically short and to the point.
• Adapt to the Occasion: Tailor your speech to fit the event's formality and theme.
• Create an Outline: Organize your thoughts with an outline to ensure you cover all key points effectively.
• Understand Requirements: Clarify any specific guidelines from the organizers before writing.
• Seek Inspiration: Learn from great speeches online for ideas and insights.
• Edit and Proofread: Review and refine your speech carefully, and get feedback if possible.

Mistakes to Avoid When Writing An Acceptance Speech

Here’s what to steer clear of when crafting your speech:

• Overwhelming Thank-Yous: Express gratitude without listing everyone; focus on key supporters.
• Lack of Structure: Keep your speech organized with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
• Being Negative: Stay positive and avoid criticism, keeping a gracious tone.
• Overusing Jargon: Use language that everyone can understand; avoid technical terms.
• Inappropriate Humor: Use humor cautiously and avoid anything offensive or sarcastic.
• Not Rehearsing: Practice your speech beforehand to ensure smooth delivery and engagement.

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.

MyPerfectWords.com stands as a reputed essay writing company , offering genuine support for your academic assignments and professional speeches.

Just reach out to our customer service to buy speech of the best quality!

Frequently Asked Questions

How to start off an acceptance speech.

Begin your acceptance speech with a heartfelt thank you to the organization or individuals presenting the award. You can also start with a brief, personal anecdote related to the award or express your emotions about receiving the honor. Starting with gratitude sets a positive tone and immediately engages your audience.

What to say in an acceptance speech?

In your acceptance speech, focus on expressing genuine gratitude to those who supported and contributed to your success. Acknowledge the significance of the award and the organization presenting it. Share personal insights, anecdotes, or reflections that highlight your journey and the impact of receiving the award. End your speech with a memorable conclusion that reinforces your appreciation and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

What is the typical length of an acceptance speech?

Acceptance speeches typically range from 1 to 5 minutes, depending on the event's guidelines and schedule. They aim to be concise while expressing gratitude and acknowledging supporters effectively.

How to write a 2-minute acceptance speech?

To write a 2-minute acceptance speech;

• Start with gratitude
• Only focus on key points
• Mention the significance of the award.
• Acknowledge support
• End with appreciation & heartfelt thank you 

How to present an acceptance speech?

To present or deliver an acceptance speech;

• Prepare beforehand
• Start strong
• Maintain eye contact
• Stay focused
• Conclude effectively

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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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 291,900 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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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.

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How to Write a Winning Acceptance Speech

If you've been awarded an honor, recognition, or prize, it's common practice to deliver an acceptance speech during the ceremony. It's an opportunity to express gratitude, acknowledge the contributions of others, and share your personal journey. Crafting and delivering a winning acceptance speech can be challenging, but with a little practice and preparation, you can deliver a speech that leaves a lasting impact. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of writing and delivering a winning acceptance speech.

Understanding the Purpose of an Acceptance Speech

The first step towards delivering a great acceptance speech is understanding the purpose of the speech. This speech isn't just about you, it's about the recognition or honor you've received. Keep in mind that the audience wants to be entertained, inspired, and informed. Your speech should be gracious and appreciative, but also engaging and interesting. It should convey your gratitude and express how you plan to use your recognition or honor to make a difference.

When you receive an award or recognition, it's important to remember that it's not just a personal achievement. It's a reflection of the hard work and dedication of those around you. Your acceptance speech should not only express your gratitude, but also acknowledge the contributions of others who have helped you along the way.

Expressing gratitude

Your acceptance speech should begin with a sincere expression of gratitude. Thank the organization or individuals who presented you with the award and recognize the hard work and dedication of those who contributed to your success. Take time to reflect on the support you've received from friends, family members, colleagues, and mentors.

Remember that your gratitude should be genuine and heartfelt. The audience will be able to tell if you're just going through the motions. Take the time to think about what this recognition or honor means to you and how it has impacted your life.

Acknowledging others' contributions

Chances are, you didn't achieve this recognition or honor on your own. Take time to acknowledge the contributions of others who have helped you along the way. This could be family members, mentors, colleagues, or other supporters. Be specific in your acknowledgment and express your appreciation for the ways in which they have contributed to your success.

It's important to remember that success is rarely achieved alone. There are always people who have supported and encouraged you along the way. Your acceptance speech is a great opportunity to publicly acknowledge and thank these individuals.

Sharing your journey

Your acceptance speech is an opportunity to share your personal journey with the audience. Reflect on the challenges you've overcome, the lessons you've learned, and the experiences that have shaped you. Your story will help the audience connect with you on a more personal level and give them a glimpse into how you've achieved success.

Remember that your story doesn't have to be perfect. It's okay to share your struggles and failures, as these are often the experiences that have taught you the most. Be honest and authentic in your storytelling, and the audience will appreciate your vulnerability.

By sharing your journey, you can inspire others to pursue their own goals and dreams. Your acceptance speech is not just about you, but about the impact you can have on others.

Preparing for Your Speech

Once you understand the purpose of an acceptance speech, it's time to start preparing your speech. The preparation phase is critical to delivering a memorable and effective speech.

Researching past speeches

Take time to research past speeches from people who have received similar recognition or honor. Analyze their speeches to understand the elements that made them successful. Pay attention to the structure, tone, and language used in their speeches. This will help you to identify key points that you should include in your speech.

Identifying key points to include

Identify the key points that you want to make in your speech. These points should be relevant to the recognition or honor you've received and reflect your personal journey. Create an outline that highlights these key points in the order that you want to deliver them.

Creating an outline

Once you've identified the key points, create an outline for your speech. Include an introduction, body, and conclusion. Be strategic in organizing your thoughts and keep your audience in mind as you select your main points. This will ensure that your speech is engaging, informative, and effective.

Crafting Your Speech

With your outline in hand, it's time to start crafting your speech. A great acceptance speech should be interesting, engaging, and memorable. Here are a few tips to help you craft your speech:

Starting with a strong opening

Your opening should capture the audience's attention and set the tone for your speech. You could start with a quote, a story, or a personal anecdote that relates to the honor or recognition you've received.

Telling a compelling story

Your story should be engaging, relevant, and memorable. It should convey the challenges you've faced, the lessons you've learned, and the people who have inspired you. Use descriptive language to paint a picture for your audience and keep them engaged.

Balancing humor and sincerity

A great acceptance speech should have a balance of humor and sincerity. Humor can lighten the mood and make your speech more enjoyable. Sincerity, on the other hand, will make your speech more meaningful and impactful.

Keeping it concise

Your speech should be concise and to-the-point. Don't ramble or go off-topic. Stick to your main points and keep your message clear and concise.

Delivering Your Speech with Confidence

Once you've crafted your speech, it's time to start practicing and refine your delivery. Delivering your speech with confidence will help to hold the audience's attention and give you the best chance of delivering an effective speech.

Practicing your speech

Practice your speech until you're comfortable with the content. Practice in front of a mirror or with friends to get feedback on your delivery. Record yourself and listen to your speech to identify areas where you can improve your delivery.

Engaging with your audience

Engage with your audience by making eye contact, moving around the stage, and maintaining good posture. You want to captivate your audience and ensure that they stay engaged throughout your speech.

Using body language effectively

Use body language to your advantage. Use hand gestures to emphasize important points. Walk around the stage to connect with different sections of the audience. Use your body language to convey confidence and authority.

Overcoming stage fright

Stage fright is common, even among experienced speakers. If you're feeling nervous, take deep breaths, and remind yourself that you're prepared. Focus on your message and the impact you want to make with your speech. Remember that the audience wants to hear what you have to say and that they are on your side.

In conclusion, delivering a winning acceptance speech requires preparation, practice, and confidence. Keep the purpose of your speech in mind and ensure that your message is engaging, interesting, and relevant. By following the tips outlined in this article and investing time in preparing and practicing your speech, you'll be well on your way to delivering a speech that leaves a lasting impact on your audience.

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Acceptance Speech

Chatgpt prompt.

Compose a speech that expresses your gratitude and acceptance of an award, acknowledging the significance of the recognition and the efforts of those who contributed to your success. Be sure to include personal anecdotes or reflections that demonstrate your appreciation and convey the impact of the recognition on your career or personal life.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

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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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Tips for Crafting an Impactful Acceptance Speech for Your New Position

Stepping into a newly elevated role is thrilling. It marks a culmination of years of hard work and unwavering belief. When it’s time to address your peers and mentors, the words you choose can leave a lasting impression. This is a unique opportunity to exhibit humility, demonstrate heartfelt thanks, and connect with others on a deeper level.

Firstly, be yourself. There’s no need to go overboard with complex language or overemotional expressions. A touch of humor never hurts, as it can ease the tension and make the moment memorable. Sharing specific anecdotes that highlight key experiences helps create a personal touch. This makes your comments relatable and genuine.

When crafting this moment, remember to be prepared. Think about the core message you want to convey. Focus on keywords that resonate with your audience. This is not just about the milestones you’ve achieved, but about the people who have supported you along the way. It’s about years of shared experiences and the mutual respect that’s built over time.

During your speech, balance between public acknowledgment and personal gratitude. Mentioning specific individuals by name can make a significant impact. For example, acknowledging “Quan’s unwavering support” or expressing how “the academy provided the essential resources needed” shows that you don’t take your journey lightly. Remember, it’s in these small details that sincere appreciation is felt.

Lastly, don’t be afraid of emotions. Addressing changes and embracing new responsibilities inherently involves a mix of excitement and nostalgia. Words that come from the heart can resonate in the hearts of others. It’s okay to express how much this opportunity means to you, both personally and professionally. Authenticity is key.

We’ve all seen examples where speakers go off-script and speak candidly. These moments often turn out to be the most touching and memorable. Time and again, it’s been proven that people connect with vulnerability and honesty. So, take that risk, and speak from a place of genuine feeling. Your audience will appreciate your candor.

Understanding Your Audience

Recognizing who will be sitting in front of you as you give your talk is essential. It’s more than knowing names and titles; it’s about understanding what drives them, what inspires them. Once you figure this out, everything else falls into place. You wouldn’t talk about rock music gigs to an academy hall of seniors, would you? Though that could be memorable for different reasons.

Steps Towards Knowing Your Audience

Start by acknowledging the incredible recipients who have graced the stage before you. This shows respect and sets a good tone. Are there family members or colleagues you should recognize? The emotions they share are your stepping stones. If possible, conduct preparation sessions – talk to a few people who will be in the audience. Their insights can shape your narrative in a more personal and inspiring way.

Wouldn’t it be great to include anecdotes that resonate with them? Your audience may include seniors and juniors alike, so your speech should find a common ground. Share stories that highlight your path to this point, but also connect with their experiences. Use this opportunity to acknowledge not just your journey, but everyone who supported you. This leaves an impact and makes your speech more relatable.

Personal Touches and Emotional Connection

Add a template of shared experiences and victories. Good emotions are contagious, and they create an energy in the hall that’s hard to forget. When you talk about challenges faced, ensure you highlight the collective strength of the team. It’s not just about “I did this,” but “We achieved this together.” Your role may be the center stage, but your tales should include the entire band of behind-the-scenes heroes.

In conclusion, tailor your words to be inclusive, acknowledging every soul that has contributed. The purpose is to make your speech memorable and impactful. The right words can turn those few minutes on stage into an inspiring memory. The key is to be prepared, be personal, and always be genuine. So, are you ready to give a speech that leaves a mark now and for times to come?

Structuring Your Message Effectively

When delivering a speech at a significant event, like receiving an award or stepping into a new role, structuring your message is crucial. Organized content can captivate the audience and leave a lasting impression. Let’s explore some key practices to organize your message seamlessly.

Identify Your Key Points

Start by brainstorming your main points. Think about the milestones in your journey, from your early days to the present. Identify the stories that encapsulate your experience. This isn’t just about outlining what you did; it’s also about how these moments shaped you. Acknowledge those who supported you along the way. Ensure your points highlight the importance of your position within the organization.

Example Structure:

Incorporate Storytelling

Storytelling adds a personal touch to your narrative. Share anecdotes that resonate with the listeners and encapsulate your journey. Whether it’s a late-night brainstorming session or a pivotal meeting with the organization’s chancellor, these stories humanize your experience. This approach ensures that your message isn’t just heard; it’s felt. Devise a way to blend humor or emotional elements, making it relatable and memorable.

To keep the audience engaged, vary your sentence structure and length. This technique prevents monotony and keeps listeners on their toes. When writing, review each section to ensure clarity and flow. Memorize key parts but leave room for natural expression. Talk about the challenges and how you overcame them. Recipients of such honesty are more likely to connect with you. All of these practices culminate in a message that’s coherent, impactful, and genuine.

Moving forward, consider addressing some FAQs at the bottom of your speech. This could be a chance to talk about frequently discussed topics within the organization or event. Engaging with these questions shows that you value broader conversations and are attuned to the organization’s needs and aspirations.

Engaging With a Personal Story

To leave a lasting impression, sharing a personal story can be incredibly powerful. It adds a unique touch to your narrative and embodies your authentic self. When done well, it not only connects you with your audience but also acknowledges their support. Balance the tone to keep it both relatable and inspirational. By doing this, you draw people in and make them feel part of your journey.

Begin With a Relatable Theme

Starting with a relatable theme immediately captures attention. Whether it was a moment of doubt or a significant challenge, such themes are universally understood. Sharing how you overcame an obstacle or discovered a new passion in 2023 can be both motivational and uplifting. This approach also serves to show you’re just like everyone else, facing everyday struggles while striving to reach your goals.

• Choose a moment that embodies your core message.
• Connect the story to the current context of 2023.
• Ensure it complements the overall tone of your speech.

Acknowledge Those Who Supported You

Within your story, it’s crucial to include acknowledgments of the people who’ve been supportive. This can be colleagues, family members, or mentors. By recognizing their efforts and expressing your debt of gratitude, you not only honor them but also create a more inclusive narrative. Kim, Quan’s, and others who stood by you aren’t forgotten, and their support is celebrated alongside your achievements.

• Mention specific names and their contributions.
• Highlight the importance of their roles in your journey.
• Express deep gratitude towards each individual.

In conclusion, a well-crafted personal story in your speech does more than just engage . It connects on a deeper level, making the audience feel valued and involved. By acknowledging and celebrating the supportive people in your life, you underscore not only your accomplishments but also their vital role in your journey. This way, you create a template that’s relatable, heartfelt, and powerful.

Expressing Gratitude Sincerely

The cornerstone of any memorable address is genuine sincerity when acknowledging those who’ve supported you. Avoid generic statements. Be authentic. Personalize your messages. This will connect better with your audience.

Begin by expressing your immediate gratitude. Say thank you. Simple, but effective. Next, talk about those who’ve been particularly supportive. For example, mention colleagues, mentors, or family members who’ve helped during critical times. Highlight specific instances where their support made a difference.

One effective approach is to mention a moment or event unique to your journey. This demonstrates that your gratitude is not just a formality. Instead, it’s a heartfelt appreciation rooted in actual experiences. Avoid the pitfalls of sounding rehearsed or insincere. It’s crucial that your delivery feels natural and well-thought-out.

Let’s look at a sample of how this can be structured:

For instance, “I would not be standing here today without the unfaltering support of my team at Innosource. We’ve weathered many storms together, and your dedication keeps inspiring me. One particular evening, right before the Grammy awards, we pulled an all-nighter on a project that ended in our greatest accomplishment. John, your advice during that time was invaluable.”

Remember to avoid “housekeeping” comments that do not add value to your message. Stay focused on those who’ve affected your journey. Their understanding and support merit earnest recognition. Acknowledging them sincerely will not only honor them but also inspire those listening. Genuinely saying thank you goes a long way in making your address memorable and heartfelt.

Highlighting Your Vision and Goals

When stepping into a new role, articulating your vision and goals can set the stage for an impactful tenure. Sharing your vision doesn’t merely inspire but also builds trust. It shows that your plans are thoughtful, grounded, and aligned with everyone’s best interests. This section will guide you on how to present your future plans thoughtfully and clearly, ensuring your message resonates deeply with your audience.

• Outline Your Vision: Get prepared by thinking about the big picture. Consider what the future looks like under your guidance. Make it memorable by being specific and relatable.
• Set Clear Goals: Your audience should understand what you aim to achieve. Focus on measurable objectives and explain how you intend to implement these plans. This step is crucial in making your vision tangible.
• Express Emotion: Delivery is everything. Speak with genuine passion. Show that you are deeply committed to these goals. Emotion can be powerful in making your vision credible and inspiring.
• Theme Consistency: Stick to a central theme that ties your vision together. It could be innovation, growth, or community. A consistent theme makes your speech more coherent and impactful.
• Acknowledge Challenges: Recognize the hurdles you might face. Share ways you plan to overcome them. This doesn’t just show foresight but also preparedness and resilience.

Don’t underestimate the power of anecdotes, especially in a speech setting. Share a story that underscores your plans. Maybe you’ll talk about someone who inspired a part of your vision. Or perhaps there’s a moment that clarified your goals. Stories make abstract concepts relatable. They’re great tools for keeping the audience engaged.

Think about the delivery. Prepare extensively and practice your speech multiple times. Even the most incredible visions can fall flat if not presented right. Consider doing a “housekeeping” check: are all the major points included? Are they in an appropriate order? This prepares you to articulate your vision compellingly and coherently.

Finally, your thank-yous should be well-placed, showing gratitude to those who supported you. Find moments in your speech to incorporate them seamlessly. This not only shows humility but also respect.

• Start with a Strong Opening: Catch their attention from the get-go.
• Maintain Focus: Stay on topic and keep the audience engaged.
• Recognize Others: Thank those who helped you along the way.
• Conclude Effectively: End on a high note, leaving a lasting impression.

In summary, articulate a clear, passionate vision. Set measurable goals that reflect your commitment and capability. Recognize potential challenges and show your preparedness. Remember, a well-prepared speech that effectively delivers your vision can be a powerful tool in motivating and uniting your new team.

Practicing Your Delivery

Mastering the art of delivery is an essential part of any notable speech. You want to ensure that your words resonate, your gratitude feels genuine, and your message is clear. Years of effort and dedication culminate in moments like this. It’s crucial you feel prepared. Avoiding pitfalls and crafting the perfect delivery can truly make a difference. Let’s delve into helpful techniques that can give you the confidence to shine on that special night.

Key Techniques to Focus On

Before you get to the stage, review your speech multiple times. Doing so helps you find areas that need refinement. Practice in front of a mirror to get a sense of your body language. Pay attention to your gestures. They should complement your words, not distract from them. Experiment with different tones and volumes. These adjustments can add layers of meaning to your words. Once you feel comfortable, record yourself. This allows you to see yourself from the audience’s perspective. Analyze the recording and make necessary changes.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Many people underestimate the power of pauses. Taking your time by pausing in the right moments can add emphasis to your major points. Avoid rushing through your speech; it can make you appear nervous and unprepared. Remember to breathe! This will help you stay calm and focused. If you’re prone to nervousness, practice relaxation techniques beforehand. Deep breathing or meditation can work wonders. Engage with your audience. Make eye contact to establish a connection. This shows sincerity and helps in delivering an impactful message.

Let’s break it down with some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that can further assist you in nailing your delivery:

Remember, whether you’re an executive addressing the whole organization or a chairman thanking a particular team, your delivery should be a reflection of your excellence and personal style. By focusing on these areas, you’ll be ready to deliver an outstanding speech that leaves a lasting impression within the hearts of everyone present. You’ve put in the time, and now it’s your time to shine!

Using Humor Wisely

In any speaking engagement, humor is a double-edged sword. Think about it: a well-placed joke can break the ice or lighten the mood. But go overboard, and you might alienate your audience. The key is understanding your recipients and respecting their sensitivities. Humor should be genuine, never forced.

First off, consider the context. Are you sharing your humor in a formal corporate setting or a more relaxed environment? The appropriateness of jokes varies widely. Next, keep it inclusive. Avoid jokes that could be considered offensive or divisive. Instead, aim for humor that unites people and embodies shared experiences.

Timing is crucial. A funny remark may work wonders, but only if delivered at the perfect moment. Practice makes perfect, even in comedy. Think about the pacing of your speech. We’ve all laughed harder at well-timed humor, and felt awkward at poorly timed jokes. So, take a moment to find that sweet spot.

Acknowledge the efforts of those who helped you along the way. This is where a touch of humor about shared experiences can do wonders. Moreover, being thankful while adding a bit of levity shows a willingness to share your gratitude in a light-hearted manner.

Sharing a humorous anecdote often makes your speech more memorable. Recipients are likely to remember the feeling you invoked rather than the words you said. Therefore, start by writing down funny moments that resonate with your journey, then choose which to include.

Here’s a sample: “Imagine the reaction when I told my director, ‘Sure, I can do that task in just five minutes!’ Clearly, I was thinking it was the perfect way to impress. And I’ve been in debt to the coffee machine ever since.”

Remember, humor is an art. Incorporate it wisely, and it will create a genuine connection with your audience. After all, good humor equals good impact when delivered with understanding and respect. So go ahead and be funny, but always keep your audience in mind. Follow these steps, and you’re likely to be a successful speaker and moderator.

Concluding With Confidence

In the final moments of talking to your audience, you need to leave a lasting impression. This is your opportunity to underscore the key points and values that got you to this moment. Stay poised. Remain engaging. Acknowledge those who have supported and inspired you. Give your words a personal touch.

Thanking Your Support Network

Think about the people who helped you climb the ladder. Thanking them genuinely will not just honor their support but also show your humility. Oprah once said, “A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself.” Express gratitude to mentors, colleagues, and anyone else who stood by you. This is your chance to sing their praises.

Looking Ahead

Now pivot to the future. Share what exciting projects lay ahead for you and your organization. You can say something like, “We’ve got some exciting initiatives planned in the coming months.” Paint a picture of the journey you and your team are about to embark on. Signal your readiness and enthusiasm.

As you near the end, be sure to rehearse what you’ll say. Rehearsing gives you the confidence to speak fluidly and without hesitation. Review any key points that showcase your professional milestones and personal growth. Reiterate the powerful narratives that weave through your journey.

End with a strong closing statement. Here’s where you encapsulate your message in a memorable way. Remember, “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else,” as Judy Garland wisely noted. Make sure every word you say expresses just how prepared and willing you are to take on this new role with glory.

Again, thank everyone who made this night special. Leave everyone feeling inspired and appreciative. There’s nothing quite like concluding a speech with the same energy with which you started it. Good luck!

Question-answer:

What are some key elements that should be included in an impactful acceptance speech.

An impactful acceptance speech should include several key elements to make a lasting impression. Firstly, express genuine gratitude by acknowledging the people and organizations that have supported you. This includes mentors, colleagues, and family members. Secondly, share a personal story or anecdote to create a connection with your audience. Thirdly, articulate a clear vision or goals for your new position. This helps to set expectations and inspire confidence. Lastly, end on a positive and hopeful note, encouraging collaboration and looking forward to future successes.

How much time should I spend brainstorming ideas for my speech?

While the exact amount of time can vary depending on the individual, it is generally recommended to spend at least a few hours brainstorming ideas for your acceptance speech over the course of a few days. This allows you to thoroughly consider what messages you want to convey, gather any relevant stories or anecdotes, and reflect on how you can best thank and recognize key contributors. Additionally, taking breaks between brainstorming sessions can help you gain fresh perspectives and refine your ideas.

Is it important to incorporate humor in an acceptance speech?

Incorporating humor in an acceptance speech can be beneficial if it suits your personality and the context of the event. Humor can make your speech more engaging and memorable, and it can help to put both you and your audience at ease. However, it is important to ensure that any jokes or humorous anecdotes are appropriate and respectful. Avoid humor that could be divisive or offensive. If you are unsure, it might be best to keep your speech sincere and heartfelt, focusing on gratitude and inspiration.

How should I handle stage fright or anxiety when delivering my acceptance speech?

Handling stage fright or anxiety when delivering an acceptance speech involves a combination of preparation and mental strategies. Firstly, practice your speech multiple times until you become comfortable with the content and delivery. Familiarity can significantly reduce anxiety. Secondly, consider using deep breathing exercises or short meditation techniques before you go on stage to calm your nerves. Finally, try to focus on the positive aspects of the experience, such as the opportunity to express gratitude and share your vision, rather than the potential for mistakes. Remember that your audience is there to support you.

Can you suggest some ways to personalize my acceptance speech?

Certainly! Personalizing your acceptance speech makes it more engaging and meaningful. Start by sharing personal anecdotes or stories that highlight your journey to this position. Mention specific people by name and describe how they have contributed to your success. Additionally, reflect on any challenges you have overcome and how they have shaped your perspective. Acknowledge the unique qualities of the organization or team you are joining, and tailor your vision or goals to resonate with them. Personal touches like these help to create a deeper connection with your audience.

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Acceptance Speech

Learn How to Write an Acceptance Speech like Experts

Published on: Mar 27, 2022

Last updated on: Jul 23, 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. 

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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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5 Tips to Give the Perfect Award Acceptance Speech

• James Haynes
• September 19, 2022

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Congratulations! You’ve won an award. Maybe you’ve been selected for the prestigious  National Speakers Association’s Speaker Hall of Fame . Maybe you’ve been named volunteer of the year for your local service club. Whatever you’ve won, now you may be wondering: how do I give an award acceptance speech? what kind of a speech am I supposed to give? Where can I find award acceptance speech examples ? How do I make sure my speech is memorable in a good way?

Maybe you’ve never given a speech before, and after toiling for years far from the spotlight, being put on stage is a nerve-wracking prospect for you. One of the best ways to minimize those nerves is to do your homework beforehand so you know exactly where you’re going with your talk, and reading this article is a great start! (For more on managing  nerves when you speak, check out this episode of The Speaker Lab podcast .)

Even if you’re a seasoned speaker, the structure and format of an award acceptance speech may not be what you are used to. To master the shortened format and time limits you may have, you’ll need to structure your speech in a more specialized way. For more on how to do so, read on.

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Determine the goal of your speech

First of all, what is the goal of your acceptance speech? The starting point for most, if not all, acceptance speeches, should be a humble “thank you” for whatever they have received. It may also be appropriate to highlight particular experiences or individuals who helped you to get where you are. But this can be overdone; fake modesty and a long list of thank-yous to people the audience doesn’t know can cause your audience to tune out just as much as a braggy or even vindictive diatribe. How do you strike the balance?

One way to start could be watching others’ acceptance speeches, and ideally not just speeches from the Academy Awards. Award acceptance speech examples can be found on Youtube, Vimeo, and other video-sharing sites. Learn from others but don’t mimic – You’ve probably watched a lot of speakers before haven’t you? You know the things they do that work. It’s easy to want to just duplicate what you saw them do since you know it works. But don’t do that. Learn from why it worked and how you can incorporate a similar (but not copied) methodology into your own talks.

Structuring your speech

Another tip: figure out from the event organizer what the time restrictions are for your talk. You don’t want to plan a 20-minute overture when the event organizers expect you to speak for just a minute or two! This will also set the tone for your talk.

Remember that your speech is supposed to be  shorter  than your typical speech. You shouldn’t have that much to write out. Once you’ve determined a few people you’d like to thank, maybe a story you’d like to tell, and determined the overall goal or vibe of your talk, you should start structuring your speech.

Perhaps you could begin by breaking down your speech into a few sections. For example, you could structure the speech as follows: Introduction, thanking a few specific people, telling a story or an anecdote, and conclusion. This should all take no more than 3-5 minutes. And it will  fly by .

Consider telling stories

Want to tell a story in your acceptance speech? It’s a good idea. Humans relate to stories. We connect to stories. Funny stories. Sad stories. Inspirational stories. We love stories. So tell them. Lots of them. Stories will keep your audience engaged and are also easier for you to memorize.

There’s nothing wrong with telling a 3rd person story or using some case study or example. But especially for an award you’re receiving, telling a story that you lived and experienced generally makes the story better for you and the audience. For the audience, they can oftentimes find themselves in your story. For you as the speaker, it’s much easier (and more powerful) to tell a story that you lived versus one you read in a book.

What kind of story to tell

In an award acceptance speech, any such story should be short and sweet. One way to keep an eye on the length is to try timing yourself telling the story out loud. As Harriet Turk discusses in our  podcast on creating your talk , “If you practice out loud, you learn a whole lot more about what the story hits on and what parts need to be told.” Turk goes on to say that sometimes we find that we try to tell a story the way we wrote it, but authoring a story is much different than presenting a story. A story that reads well in a book may not work as well on stage.

Some examples of stories or anecdotes that you could do well to include would be about a setback you overcame in your role, or how someone helped you in a particularly meaningful way. If that person who helped you is one of those you want to thank, it would serve as an incredibly powerful testament to their character to include such a story. Of course, if something about that story is sensitive, it would be prudent to notify them in advance that you plan to tell that story. Even if not, it could be polite to give them a heads-up, particularly if they will be in the audience for your acceptance speech.

Using humor: advantages and pitfalls

You might wonder whether or not humor is appropriate in an award acceptance speech. Generally, humor is not a bad thing to include if you want to liven up your talk. However, keep in mind that you are being spotlighted as an individual accomplishing something in an award acceptance speech, and harsh joking about other people, in particular, may reflect poorly on your deserving the award. Negative jokes about the organizer, your collaborators, or others in the audience are no-nos.

On that point, as we cover in our 100 speaking tips article,  you don’t need to be crude or inappropriate just for a laugh. It’s not worth it. If you deliver a killer keynote and are flawless throughout, but you make one inappropriate remark, nobody will remember anything else you said. There’s nothing wrong with using humor or making a strong point on something, but don’t do it at the expense of crossing the line and turning people off.

On the other hand, a dash of humor, such as light self-deprecation, can be perfectly good at keeping your speech from sounding sanctimonious or stuffy. When you tell a joke or deliver a punchline, give the audience time to laugh. Sometimes speakers like to rush to the next point, but don’t do that. You need to give the audience a chance to respond to what you just said (in this case to laugh), but also if you rush on to the next thought while the room is still laughing, nobody will hear what you’re saying.

Practice makes perfect

You’re not going to have a Powerpoint. You’re probably not going to have any visual aids. So how are you going to stay focused and find cues for your award acceptance speech?

Consider writing your speech out and timing yourself to ensure you don’t go way over any time allotments you might have. And if you don’t have time limits, consider your audience – they will almost certainly tune out after 15+ minutes of seemingly-endless acknowledgments…

Remember: Professional speakers don’t just make stuff up. They don’t write a few thoughts on a notecard and then shoot from the hip for an entire presentation. They take the time to write and carefully craft their material.

As Harriet Turk discusses in our  podcast on creating your talk , bullet points can be one way to succinctly outline a talk in a way that you can rely on, even when you’re on stage and nervous. “Bullets are easy because they trigger what it is that you’re really wanting to do,” she said, “Whereas if you write it out and then you memorize it, you could have stage fright, or you’ve practiced it so much that you get to a point that you’re nervous and you forget.”

Although you shouldn’t just be reading from a page the whole time, writing out specific names of people you want to thank can help keep you from forgetting anybody.

When you’re on stage

So you’ve written, practiced, and are headed to your acceptance speech venue to give your killer talk. What should you remember when you’re standing on the stage?

As we outline in our 100 speaking tips piece,  remember that on stage, you can be an amplified version of yourself. The bigger the venue, the bigger you need to be on stage. The way you would communicate to a group of 10 people is very different than how you would need to communicate to a room of 10,000. Both should be an authentic version of you, but simply amplified to the setting. The bottom line is don’t try to be something you’re not on stage. Be you.

Keep it slow and steady. When you are talking really fast, it becomes difficult for the audience to follow. It’s hard to keep up and process. Plus the faster you talk, the harder it is to understand what you’re saying. So slow down and enunciate. Give the audience the chance to keep up with where you’re going.

Don’t be afraid of the silence. Silence, to a speaker, can feel deafening but it can be powerful. Silence shows confidence that you’re in control of the talk and the room and you’re continuing to guide them towards a common purpose. When you make a strong point, don’t rush to the next line. Stop and let it hang there. The silence is your friend.

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All in all, giving an award acceptance speech is a great opportunity to practice your speaking skills while simultaneously a big honor! Whether you’re an experienced speaker or haven’t given one for years, these tips and processes can help you conceive of, outline, and deliver an awesome acceptance speech.

If you found this piece helpful, we have a  great podcast with Grant Baldwin on how to create your talk.  He tells us how he prepares for talks, what makes a talk good versus another talk, and what types of structures you can use to organize your content. You can listen to this  podcast on creating a talk here . Want to read more about speaking tips? Take a look at our  100 tips for motivational speaking for any speaking engagement ! Happy speaking!

• Last Updated: May 7, 2024

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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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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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How to Give an Award Acceptance Speech?

• Filed under: Featured articles , Public speaking articles , Public speaking tips and tricks , Speech preparation

You’ve been nominated for an award and now you have to give an acceptance speech. It might be an Academy Award where the whole world is watching or it might be an award for the best coach in your little league. Regardless, it’s still important and you would like to look good while giving this speech.

So, how to give an award acceptance speech? It is an opportunity to put a spotlight on ideas you care about, to thank the people who helped you win the award and to give your audience at least one take away.

Therefore, don’t blow it. Don’t wait until the last minute with the preparation and don’t make excuses.

And if you don’t win… well, maybe you will use the acceptance speech next year or next time. So, today I am going to give you practical tips on how you can prepare for your award acceptance speech.

But there’s a lot more to public speaking you should know so I wrote an article about best public speaking books to read. Check out these books here .

Table of Contents

What is an acceptance speech?

An award acceptance speech is a speech given by a person who is receiving an award, honor or prize. When you win something, then it is a tradition to say a few words and share some gratitude toward those you would like to thank or acknowledge.

In the audience are your friends, family and perhaps people in your industry who you respect, so make the best of it.

Let’s start off by focusing on your goals for this speech because, after all, an award acceptance speech is still the same as any other speech. Now, it might be a short one. It might only be 60 seconds long before that music comes in and you’re asked to get off stage…but it’s still a speech.

How is award acceptance different from other speech types?

Well, it is different in a lot of ways. For example: you’re not going to have a PowerPoint display. You’re not going to have a beginning, middle and end, and you’re not going to share funny stories.

Also, you’re not going to walk around the stage and talk for 50 minutes like you would in a keynote speech.

Acceptance speech gives you an opportunity to make:

• A great impression
• An awful impression
• No impression.

Main goals of the acceptance speech

Your goals are not to just get through this. Also, your goal is not to thank your tax attorney and 29 other service providers.

Therefore, your goal should be to:

• Make a great impression
• Thank the people who were relevant in helping you in your career or whatever it is you did
• Try to focus on just one idea that you want to leave people with, whether it is inspiring people to follow their dreams or maybe motivating people to work hard, etc.

This is not an opportunity to communicate five points or more. Instead, it is an opportunity to focus on one of life’s lessons or on one really important idea.

Give people a favorable impression of you and let them know that you’re respectful and that you’ve thought about this and planned.

Recommended books

How to Deliver a TED Talk: Secrets of the World's Most Inspiring Presentations

Jeremy Donovan

Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences

Nancy Duarte

Confessions of a Public Speaker

Scott Berkun

Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds

Carmine Gallo

The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right

Atul Gawande

The First 20 Hours: How to Learn Anything... Fast!

Josh Kaufman

Throughout your short award speech, let them know that you’ve got a particular idea you want to communicate and that you thank the people who helped you get to the point where you’re getting this award.

How to prepare for an acceptance speech?

There’s nothing worse than someone winning a major award (whether it is an Emmy Award or just a local club member of the year award) and sort of getting up and fumbling around, “Oh, God – I never thought I would win. So, I didn’t prepare anything…”

Show the people who took the trouble of nominating you a little respect. Do them justice and prepare. It doesn’t really take that long.

Learn from the best

Let’s face it – most acceptance speeches are not memorable. They’re instantly forgotten and they’re perfunctory.

That shouldn’t be your role model. Your role model should be great speeches. Here’s what I want you to do. I want you to go to YouTube and type in “great acceptance speeches” or “great Academy Award acceptance speeches.”

You’ll find tremendous speeches. Most of them are brief because they are acceptance speeches on TV. They’re usually always funny. They have an emotional moment and they seem genuine.

Now, you might be receiving a speech for the best accountant in your county and therefore you might not feel the need or the ability to be wildly funny, but you can still learn from the masters.

Practice your speech

I know, now you want to say, “What? It is ridiculous to practice an acceptance speech!” But actually, it is not. The best way to practice your speech is by recording yourself.

Therefore, grab a phone or camera and record yourself. Next, take a look at the recording and write down everything you liked about it and everything you didn’t like about it.

After, repeat this process as many times as needed until you’re feeling comfortable and happy. If you do that, I guarantee you’re going to deliver a great speech.

Also, don’t be afraid of jinxing yourself. Prepare to accept the award and prepare to give the speech.

How to write an acceptance speech?

The first thing most people do when they win an award is to thank the people who helped them. Of course, you should thank people but remember that there is a particular way of thanking people.

Thank people in a meaningful way

Thank people in as specific a way as possible and tell them exactly what they did that helped you. Don’t just say, “Thank you for your support.” Support is too generic. It’s abstract and doesn’t really mean anything.

What you should do is:

• Look at the people you mention
• Address them by name
• Thank them and tell them what you’re thanking them for. For example: “John, you were there for me when no one else was and when I couldn’t raise a penny to get this idea going. You wrote the first check.”

If you do that then it’s going to be so much more interesting to everyone. It will be meaningful and it will come across as sincere. That’s much more effective than just rattling off a long list of names.

Tell people exactly what you’re thanking them for. Look them in the eye if they’re around. Give specific examples; this way, your thanks has real meaning.

Make a point, tell a story

The best award acceptance speeches always tell a story. Now you may ask, “Well…how is there time for a story?” But I assure you that you can tell a story in 30 seconds.

• Talk about something that happened
• Recount a real conversation (with a friend, a colleague or a family member) about a challenge, how you overcame it and how it’s relevant to the award.

Main rules for the story you’re going to tell:

• Make it brief
• Make sure it’s relevant
• Tell it in a compelling way

If you do that, you have a good story for your acceptance speech.

How to give an acceptance speech?

When you’re giving an acceptance speech, especially if it’s for anything in the creative field, keep in mind that you’re an entertainer. Therefore, something in your speech should be entertaining.

Don’t be dull – be entertaining

Now, ideally your speech should be funny but if it’s not, at least have a dramatic moment or something with a little emotion . It’s always disappointing when people who are known as world-class entertainers seem, during their acceptance speech, about as entertaining as if an accountant were reading the phonebook to you.

Remember who you are and what your strengths are. Use those strengths to entertain. You’re not going to give a humorous speech for an hour, but you do have a minute where you can say at least something amusing, interesting or entertaining.

So, plan on having something entertaining even if you’re just making fun of yourself.

Show some emotion but don’t overdo it

A little emotion goes a long way. If you’ve had a tough life and now you win some important award it’s understandable to have some emotion…but you need the right amount.

It is not very interesting if you’re out there blubbering. So, keep it together. This is one of the beauties of having rehearsed your acceptance speech – you can show the right amount of emotion and the words can still come out rather easily because you thought of it, you planned it and you rehearsed it.

But if you just take the attitude of, “Oh, I don’t want to jinx myself. I’m not going to plan anything to say – I’ll just get up there,” and then the actual emotion of the moment may overwhelm you and you just can’t say anything. Instead you kind of look like an idiot – especially if it’s on TV for the whole world to see.

So, you want emotion but not so much that you’re just blubbering.

What to avoid while giving an acceptance speech?

Here are a few things that you really need to avoid when giving an acceptance speech.

#1 Don’t read your speech

One thing I would suggest you do is to avoid reading your speech from a piece of paper. It’s just awful – it’s devoid of personality, emotion, and sincerity. So don’t read.

It’s OK to have some notes, but you certainly should not have a word for word scripted out.

#2 Don’t thank more than five people

Also, I really don’t think you should thank more than five people. If you have more people than that to thank then send them a personal note.

Don’t give a long laundry list of names and don’t read because those are the two biggest blunders that people make in the major awards shows when they are receiving awards.

#3 Don’t tell people you’re nervous

You may not know this but no one even recognizes that you’re nervous. You can tell your family and friends later that you were nervous but don’t waste valuable time.

#4 Don’t tell people that you don’t have much time

Speaking of time – don’t waste your time by telling people that you don’t have much time. “Oh my gosh, I don’t have much time. I don’t know where to start because…”

Don’t ever comment on the time. Simply use your time to maximum advantage. Use every second. Say something interesting to the audience and don’t waste time talking about the fact that you don’t have much time because now you have even less time.

So, if you avoid these pitfalls, it gives you more time to focus on saying something interesting. Perhaps something lighthearted or thanking people in a sincere way.

Final thoughts: What to say in an acceptance speech?

If I got to vote for you, I would. I’m pulling for you. I hope you win this award so you can show off your public speaking skills and give a great award acceptance speech.

It really all comes down to:

• Be genuine in your thanks. Don’t just list names.
• Have one interesting or entertaining thing to say.
• Share one little story
• Focus on your audience and don’t talk about how you’re nervous or scared.

Finally, the most important tip of all: practice your short speech in advance on video as many times as it takes so that you see in advance the speech you want to give. And then once you win, you can simply deliver the speech that you’ve already practiced. Do that and you will be in absolutely great shape.

Related questions

How long is an acceptance speech? It depends on the event but usually, it is between 45 and 60 seconds.

How do you outline a speech? Have your speech ready with nice gigantic text so you don’t have to memorize anything. Ideally, it fits on a single sheet of paper. That way you can simply glance down, scoop up a few words and keep going. This keeps you on track. (Full article here)

Useful reading

• How to deliver a ceremonial speech? A Full Guide
• How to Introduce Yourself in a Presentation Without it Being Awkward?
• How to Use a Teleprompter During your Speech? A Complete Guide

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7 ways to rock your next acceptance speech

Your audience will thank you if you skirt the predictable – and instead give them something to think about or act upon after the evening is over..

First, the good news:

“Congratulations! You’ve won an award for your outstanding achievements!”

(And now the bad news):

“You’ll have about five or 10 minutes to deliver an acceptance speech after receiving your award.”

Yikes! Five or 10 minutes?

How will you start? What will you say? How will you say it? Whom will you thank? How will you end?

To calm your fears, event planners sometimes make light of their request for your remarks by telling you something like this:

“Don’t worry, Joe. We’ll start out with a video highlighting your accomplishments. So your acceptance speech is really more of a ‘thank you’ to whomever you see fit.”

But is it really?

Unfortunately, we’ve all sat through way too many awards nights where the acceptance speeches have been … well … downright boring. Predictable. Forgettable.

Don’t get me wrong. Winners try. They try really hard. But they get stuck in a loop of what they think an acceptance speech should be. Not what it could be.

When you think about what could be, the possibilities are endless!

Acceptance speeches can be an opportunity to change the way people think by persuading them to consider something they’ve never considered before.

Or, they can be an opportunity to change the way people behave by inspiring them – (based on the road you’ve traveled) – to do something even greater.

Now. Are you feeling a little more jazzed?

Here are seven tips to get you thinking differently about your next acceptance speech.

1. Be truly grateful. And mention others.

So think long and hard about this.

Who in your circle deserves your authentic mention – and more importantly – why ?

A few years ago, when a chief technology officer accepted a competitive business award on his company’s behalf, his humility shone forth. Why? Because he named specific people – and thanked them one by one – for their specific contributions to the company’s success:

• He thanked the awarding organization for taking the time to recognize manufacturing innovation.
• He thanked his 63 employees “for your genius that drives us forward.”
• He thanked his majority partner for “believing in us to invest in us.”
• He thanked his organization’s founder “for risking it all to start the company in 1995.”
• And he thanked his wife “for being my rock on our journey to improve people’s lives with laser processing technology.”

But gratitude’s only part of it.

2. Be a tad unpredictable.

What else might you say to change the thoughts or behaviors of the particular people expected to be in your particular audience?

• Are they clients?
• Potential customers?
• Stakeholders?
• Industry colleagues?
• Business associates?

When planning your acceptance remarks , think strategically about One Big Idea you want to share that has real meaning to the unique audience you will address at the awards event.

Earlier this year, Oprah Winfrey did just that by tying One Big Idea to a current event. When she became the first African-American woman to receive the Cecil B. De Mille Award at the Golden Globes, she indeed thanked people: Dennis Swanson, Quincy Jones, Gayle King and Stedman Graham.

But she did something else.

In the end, Oprah seized the groundswell of the #MeToo movement, passionately inviting entertainers in the audience to be the “magnificent women” and “phenomenal men” fighting hard to become “the leaders who take us to the time when nobody ever has to say ‘Me too’ again.”

3. Decide what your acceptance speech needs to do .

If you want to change the way people think , then persuade your audience to consider something they may have never considered before.

In his acceptance speech for a Business Hall of Fame award , Rick Schwartz of Winsupply suggested that business leaders in the audience renew their commitment to our nation’s free enterprise system because it gives people with desire the chance to earn their own success:

I believe that Dayton’s continued prosperity – in every economic, cultural or civic program we undertake – depends on people who believe in free enterprise and are willing to help others participate in it.

As business leaders in Dayton, all of us need to do whatever it takes to create jobs and opportunities for others so they have the chance to work hard, pursue happiness and earn their own success.

• It is this difference that has defined the course of Dayton’s history. • It is this difference that has molded Dayton’s heritage, tradition and success. • It is this difference that helps everyday, ordinary people flourish.

In his acceptance speech for the Julian Marcus Lifetime Achievement Award given by Employment for Seniors, Chad Delligatti of InnoSource told his own story to inspire the audience to “make a choice to advocate for the mature job seeker” over the age of 50 by getting connected – or reconnected – to Employment for Seniors:

A minute ago, I told you the reason I said “yes” to Rocky Parker and decided to help Employment for Seniors in the first place.

It’s because I have a soft heart for people facing difficult circumstances through no fault of their own.

Plus, my company, InnoSource, has human resources expertise that I could bring to the table.

But that’s not the whole story.

Rocky’s 2003 invitation came two years after the September 11 terrorist attacks. By then, 2.5 million people in this country, many over the age of 50, had lost their jobs.

That included members of my family, and fathers of my friends.

So I saw what happens to people over the age of 50 who were displaced, but still wanted to work. In fact, they still needed to work – not only to support their families but also to keep a meaning and a purpose in their lives.

I saw for myself the havoc that a job loss can wreak on breadwinners and families through downsizings and rightsizings, mergers and acquisitions. Circumstances beyond a person’s control.

I felt a deep compassion for these men and women who were stunned, lost, alone and afraid, paralyzed with fear by their own new fork in the road.

Many of them had worked at the same place for 30 years, so they had no resume. No interviewing skills. And often no experience with new technology.

As we know, many people identify themselves based on what they do. So if they lose what they do, they also lose who they are.

That’s why I decided it was worth the fight to help keep Employment for Seniors whole and healthy.

4. Share something about yourself that your audience does not know.

To connect heart to heart with the people in the audience who are coming to cheer you on, give them a window to your world.

Several years ago, when executive Barbara Hayde received a YWCA Dayton Women of Influence Award, she wanted people to know the impact you can have on someone with just a few simple words of encouragement. So she shared this :

Back in the 1980s, when I ran the Dayton operation of Ohio Works – a program that moved women from welfare to work – I hired a young African-American man by the name of Robert E. Johnson.

After a year, I told Robert I wanted to promote him to my second-in-command – quite a well-deserved promotion!

He just stared at me.

His slow-to-arrive response was, “I just don’t think I can do that job.”

I said, “Robert – I know you. When you try hard enough, there isn’t anything you can’t do.”

Today Robert E. Johnson is not only a Ph.D., but he’s the president of Becker College in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Not long ago I caught up with Robert, who told me something I’ll never forget.

He said to me:

“You are the reason I have advanced to this point. “You are the person who told me I could do whatever I wanted to do. “Your encouraging words changed my life.”

5. Give your remarks a title that embodies your theme.

Even though the title of your award acceptance speech will never be revealed during the event, coming up with just the right title is still a good idea.

Here’s why:

A title will not only help you solidify that One Big Idea in your head (see tip 2) but also help you focus on your message as you deliver your remarks on the big night.

Here are a few examples of award acceptance speech titles that helped executives get more clarity on their message:

• “When You Come to a Fork in the Road, TAKE IT!”
• “Where Will Our New Leaders Come From?”
• “Aunt Peg Would be Proud”
• “Imagine the Impact You Can Have”
• “We Must Give Everyday, Ordinary People the Chance to Earn Their Own Success”

6. Link your remarks back to the organization and the event.

If you are truly grateful to the organization for bestowing this honor upon you, show it.

Then decide what you can say about one or more of these threads. This is classy and shows profound respect for the people who are putting you in the limelight.

During his acceptance speech for a prestigious civic award, businessman Ron Budzik told a story about Jim “Mac” McSwiney, a mentor of his and CEO at the former Mead Corp. (now MeadWestvaco). Mac had won the same award from the same organization 28 years ago:

In 1985, Mac stood on this stage and accepted the Citizen Legion of Honor award.

I remember that day well, and I remember what Mac spoke about.

Servant Leadership.

It’s a concept that Mac brought to us at Mead – he was just so passionate about it! – and one that continues to encourage and inspire me, in the work that I do alongside so many of you, to help create opportunities for others with very few resources to succeed.

I remember the day Jesse Phillips, one of Dayton’s great business owners and philanthropists, came to Mead seeking a million dollars for a community project.

Mac asked me, “Ron – can we do a million bucks?”

I told him flat out, “Mac – we don’t have it.”

And then Mac said to me, “But Ron – we just can’t walk away from this.”

And we didn’t.

We identified other funders – other leaders willing to step up – and together with the Mead Foundation came up with a million dollars for Jesse’s project.

That was Mac: He’d put you on the spot, persuade you to get engaged and compel you to figure out a solution – no matter what the problem was.

He pushed. And by continuing to ask me, he empowered me …

7. Talk like a real person.

Like any speech, a great acceptance speech requires spending time in thought well ahead of the big event. So devote some time to just thinking. Map out your thoughts. Then draft your script.

When it’s time to rehearse, make it conversational, like you’re chatting over cocktails with a tableful of trusted friends.

Practice in front of your spouse or a colleague – someone who will be honest with you if you’re coming across less than humble, and more like a preachy preacher or an executive droid.

So to wrap up, remember these seven ways to rock your next acceptance speech:

• Be truly grateful. And mention others.
• Be a tad unpredictable.
• Decide what your acceptance speech needs to do.
• Share something about yourself that your audience does not know.
• Give your remarks a title that embodies your theme.
• Link your remarks back to the organization and the event.
• Talk like a real person.

Do you have more ways to rock an acceptance speech? Let’s chat! Email me at [email protected]

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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 Example

As a college instructor and communication expert with extensive nonfiction and educational writing experience, Mary shares tips and advice related to a wide variety of topics.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

If you receive an award that's presented at a public event or membership gathering, you will be expected to deliver a short acceptance speech. This speech is your chance to say thank you to the awarding organization or individuals and also serve as an inspiration to others who may have goals similar to yours.

Template for an Acceptance Speech

Writing an acceptance speech doesn't have to be difficult, especially if you start with this fill-in template as a foundation on which to build. Open the template by clicking the image below. If the document doesn't open right away, use the tips in this guide for printables to troubleshoot.

• Impactful Volunteer Appreciation Speech Samples & Tips
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• Student Council Speech Ideas & Tips to Help You Win

After the document launches, click anywhere in the highlighted area to make text changes using your keyboard and mouse. You can change as much or as little of the wording as you like, being sure to fill in the areas between the brackets ([ ]), as they represent spots where you'll need to specify information relevant to your individual situation.

When you're finished customizing the document, use the toolbar commands to save, then print.

Acceptance Speech Writing Tips

Even though this template can give you a head start on writing your speech, the final document will have to be customized to your particular situation. Key tips to keep in mind include:

• Before going to the award ceremony, find out if the winner will be expected to deliver a speech and ask how much time is allocated for the individual to speak. This will help you determine how long your remarks should be.
• Be a gracious winner, acknowledging others who were nominated for the award (if you have access to that information) and saying thank you to the awarding organization and individuals who helped you along the way with whatever it is you are being recognized for.
• Put careful thought into deciding who you need to acknowledge when delivering your remarks. It is much better to spend time up front making sure you include everyone rather than having to apologize for leaving someone out after the fact.
• Avoid coming across as arrogant. Instead, be sure that you accept the award in a spirit of humility and gratitude.
• End with a focus on the future, addressing what may come next for you as a result of experiencing the honor of receiving the award.

Accepting an Award With Style

Delivering a sincere, quality acceptance speech will guarantee you come across as a consummate professional who is both humble and accomplished. Practice your remarks carefully ahead of time, and take your notes with you so you have them to rely on when delivering your speech.

How to Write A Good Acceptance Speech: Great Example

How do you write a good acceptance speech.

Start early, be yourself, honor those who’ve helped you, state your connection to the organization giving you the award, and rehearse…again…again and again.

Every year the American Payroll Association honors their Man and Woman of the Year. The next year at the annual conference call Congress they deliver a five-minute speech to almost 2,500 of their peers. I’ve had the honor of speaking at twenty-one APA’s Congress events and working with APA’s leaders and speakers. Dan Maddux, the APA’s very creative Executive Director , and his convention team always have amazing themes and sets. As you can tell the 2018 theme was James Bond and Pay for Another Day .

David Wakeling’s Payroll Man of The Year Speech 2018

As an executive speech coach and long time partner with APA, one of my favorite projects for the is helping the Man and Woman of the Year with their presentations. David Wakeling came with a superb idea of the approach he wanted to take. Eny the video and script. “Once upon a time, there was a painfully shy introvert who was raised on a small farm in northeastern Nevada near a town of 200 people. This young man attended a four-year high school with a total enrollment of 27 students. For lack of a better name, let’s call this young man Dave. Even though he had been a supervisor or manager for most of his working career, Dave had very little confidence and was even terrified to hold a department staff meeting. After working at Los Angeles County Metro for ten years in the Financial Reporting Section of the Accounting Department, George, the Controller called him into his office and said, “Dave, as you know, the Payroll Manager is retiring in two weeks. I would like for you to run the Payroll Department. Are you interested?” Without giving it a thought, Dave said, “Yes.” George explained, “There is a Payroll Learning Series being taught at Chapman University that prepares individuals to pass the American Payroll Association CPP exam to become highly respected payroll professionals. Why don’t you attend and become certified?” At the first class, Dave met the instructor, a gorgeous, vivacious, blonde woman, Sondra Dougherty. By the end of that first class, Dave was in love. Madly in love! Sondra, however, was happily married, as was Dave. Oh, now, before you start spreading rumors, let me clarify. Dave was in love with Sondra’s teaching style . Even after a hard day at work and having to drive an hour each way in Los Angeles’s stop-and-go traffic, Dave looked forward to the Thursday night payroll classes. Why? Sondra made learning fun by teaching these strategies: Using mnemonics to help remember key concepts Teaching the class tips and tricks for solving complicated payroll calculations Incorporating court cases to validate the material, and Inspiring the students to love payroll One day after the class term was finished, Sondra called Dave and said: “Dave, congratulations on passing the CPP exam! I have been teaching the Payroll Learning Series for the past six years and would like to move on to other projects. Would you be interested in taking over?” His reply: “Wow, would I ever.” This was an opportunity of a lifetime, to be able to teach a university class. Sondra willingly shared her materials and continued to mentor Dave. As a result, Dave taught the Payroll Learning Series for the next 12 years at Chapman University and relished seeing his students become Certified Payroll Professionals. Throughout this time, Sondra continued to be his mentor. Based on his engaging teaching style, Dave was invited to become a member of the APA Speakers Bureau. This gave him the opportunity to follow in his mentor’s footsteps and teach APA seminars in major U.S. and Canadian cities. Dave joined the APA Strategic Payroll Leadership Task Force Government/Public Sector Subcommittee. The Committee Chairman was a handsome young man, Ron Moser (2007 Payroll Man of the Year). Ron is a visionary with great ideas who unceasingly shares his time and talents with the APA. Ron took Dave under his wing and became a great mentor and friend. Ron also gave Dave opportunities to co-present workshops with him at Congress and also APA Webinars. Good training and mentoring began with Sondra Dougherty. From there, Ron Moser and numerous others have encouraged Dave to become involved. A pivotal moment in Dave’s self-confidence and APA involvement came the first time he was teaching an APA seminar in New York. This was the moment when this terribly shy introvert with no confidence from Lund, Nevada, suddenly realized, at 37 floors high above Times Square in New York City, that, metaphorically, he was on top of the world and had made it. That’s when Dave turned into the dynamic, charismatic, charming, confident man standing before you today. All I really needed to know about becoming an outstanding Payroll Professional, I learned at the APA. After twenty years of involvement, I am where I am today in my professional career because of the APA. Closing: A quote from the 2017 APA Congress brochure says, “Success doesn’t come to you. You go to it.” How do you make this happen as a payroll professional? For those of you new to our payroll family, take advantage of everything APA has to offer. Get involved. Join Some of the APA committees A local APA payroll chapter Even if you are shy or lack confidence, don’t let that hold you back. You will find mentors and leaders who will recognize the potential in you long before you see it in yourself and will help you become successful. Take advantage of the APA educational opportunities. You want to be knowledgeable and at the top of your game as a payroll professional even if you have to pay for them. Thank you: Thank you, Dan Maddux, for your vision in building the APA into a dynamic, worldwide professional payroll organization. Thank you, Jim Medlock and APA staff, for the opportunities you have given me, and Thank you for the most wonderful honor of being your 2017 Payroll Man of the Year.” Jeffrey Mishlove Acceptance speech after and essay contest that awarded him $500,000.00.

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How Do You Accept An Award?

How to Write a Meaningful Eulogy – Expert Advice

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Acceptance Speech

Acceptance speech generator.

Being recognized or awarded is one of the best feelings in the world. It gives us the feeling of being overwhelmed with so much gratitude and that we would also want to share our achievement with people who helped in the sidelines. One way of giving back and showing sincere gratitude is through acceptance speeches. The heart of every acceptance speech is gratitude. Acceptance speeches are also a way of acknowledging people who helped the recipient of the award or the recognition in acquiring all his or her achievements.

Simple Acceptance Speech

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Donald Trump Republican Nomination Acceptance Speech

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Economics Award Acceptance Speech

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President of the Republic of Liberia Acceptance Speech

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Incoming President Acceptance Speech

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What Is an Acceptance Speech?

An acceptance speech is a speech with an aim to simply express gratitude after receiving a recognition or an award.

10 Tips for Writing an Award-Winning Acceptance Speech

We all know that acceptance speeches are often delivered after receiving an award but it does not mean that your acceptance speech shouldn’t be award-winning either. Here are ten steps on how to make and deliver an acceptance speech that can even make you earn another award if there is a contest for acceptance speeches:

1. Know Your Time Limit.

If you already know what award you will be receiving, you have to make sure that you asked about the duration of the entire awarding ceremony before starting your speech . In that way, you would know your time limit for your speech. You have to make sure that your speech would fit the given time frame in order to make sure that it does not exceed and make unnecessary changes in the program just because your speech was too long.

3. Acknowledge All that Has to be Acknowledged

It’s only right that you should recognize the people who have helped you in the sidelines. Most people would acknowledge their family, friends, and colleagues but this is too common; acknowledge the people who, even with their small contribution has made a great impact in helping you achieve your smart goals and successes.

4. K.I.S.S. and Brevity.

Most of the awarding ceremonies would often take 2-3 hours and oftentimes, there are a lot of people to be given an award and you may also add the myriad of performances and presentations in between. If you would have a speech with a length of more than five minutes for a single award or recognition, you will be taking too much of the awarding ceremony’s time and you have to keep in mind that you are not the only person to be awarded or given with a recognition. That is why you have to maintain the brevity, or keep your acceptance speech short and simple or else it will bore your audience and you would be taking too much time from the allotted time duration of the awarding ceremony.

If you are a natural entertainer, then make good use of this in your acceptance speeches. Awarding ceremonies can be boring and it is only in ad-libs from hosts or emcees and speeches by awardees that a ceremony can be on the light side. But caution: do not focus solely on making your speech humorous or else your focus would stray away from what your acceptance speech is actually about and that is your expression of gratitude.

6. Tell a Story.

If you have found a difficulty in making your audience laugh, you can always tell a story. Good storytellers, without humor, can always entertain its audience. You can always share your struggles and mini-successes as you make your way to your main goal. In this way, you can actually inspire people who may actually share the same path and struggles as yours. People would always want to have a company in their miseries.

7. Do Not Bring Notes.

Aside from the fact that reading our acceptance speech on pieces of small notes would not make a good impression, memorizing and familiarizing our own speech can somehow improve or establish our credibility. Memorizing our own speech would also help us gain confidence in delivering the speech.

8. Always End with a Bang

If you want to make a great impact on your audience, always end your acceptance speech with a bang. You can summarize and condense the groups of people who helped you but this is not anymore necessary. What’s necessary is that you would make a statement that would give you a solid impression. One sign that you would be making a good impression is that you whatever you said in your speech, even if it is in the introduction, will be remembered by the audience. Although it is not necessary to end with a bang, it would actually make you feel good other than receiving the award or the recognition.

9. Speak From the Heart

Even if it is good to memorize our speech, sometimes it is only best that we would familiarize our acceptance speech so we that we will have a chance to speak from the heart. Memorizing would sometimes make us sound robotic as if we’re reading something, but if we familiarize and just speak form the heart, we actually become genuine in all the words and in the expression of our gratitude and honest appreciation to all the people we are acknowledging.

10. Make The Fact Clear that this Is Not Just About You

You should always make it clear that if ever there were people who helped you along the way, you should always and also acknowledge them and let them share your achievements. Always be humble but do not be overly modest to the point that you would sound fake and just act for the sake of trying to look down to earth. But that does not mean you could not be proud of the people who helped you along the way; again, remember to acknowledge their contributions, no matter how big or small that contribution is.

Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speech

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Sample Acceptance Speech

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Dr. Helena Ndume Acceptance Speech for the United Nations Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Award

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Lifetime Achievement Award Acceptance Award

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3 Simple Ways in Writing an Award-Winning Acceptance Speech

If you already know that you would be recognized and awarded, you should always prepare your acceptance speech beforehand. Unless you’re eloquent and confident enought that you would be able to ace an imprompty acceptance speech, then you may go ahead and skip the following list. But if you feel like you would still need to work on your writing your speech, then read this:

1. Make an Outline

Always start any writing composition with an outline. The outline will serve as your guide through out your writing process. This will give you direction. Make sure that in your oultine, you will have the parts of your speech as headers and right below the headers or the major parts of your speech are the ideas that you would want that part to contain with.

2. List Down the People You Would Want to Thank and Acknowledge

List down all the possible names of people and groups or organization that you would want to share your recognition or award so that you would not have a difficulty in remembering them when you would actually be already delivering your speech. You wouldn’t want to get any chances of being a person who shows no gratitude if ever you would forget to thank even one person or group of people, right?

3. Be Sincere and Genuine

Remember that the heart of every acceptance speech is gratitude and we all know that gratitude should always be sincere and genuine. It is not real gratitude if you would be all fake in your expression of thanks. It does not take a million to be genuine in thanking people that you should really be thanking. Always make sure that you have recognized every effort made by the people who helped you along the way and make sure that in thanking them, you sincerely and truly do.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write an Acceptance Speech for a community leader award.

Create an Acceptance Speech for a business innovation competition.

Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority

Leading Etiquette Expert and Modern Manners Authority Diane Gottsman’s official blog, with Business Etiquette, University Etiquette, Social Media Etiquette, Dining Etiquette and more.

6 Tips to Making a Memorable Acceptance Speech

20 Feb 2017 By: Diane Gottsman

In the midst of award season, we are reminded of the importance of what to do and say when our shining moment comes to light.

Receiving recognition from a company or organization is an honor and certainly something to display in your home or office. There’s no need for bells and whistles, just simple rules to follow when receiving any type of accolade. The night may be yours, but your words should be short, sweet and memorable. The following tips will help leave a lasting impression on your audience when giving an acceptance speech.

Be Prepared

It never hurts to put thought into your speech before walking up to the front of the room or onto the stage. Write your speech on a few index cards in legible handwriting for brief glances. Bullet points are there for a quick reference but never read directly from your notes. To prevent distractions, avoid putting anything on the side of the note cards that could detract from your message. Practice, rewrite and practice again.

Ask for Guidance

When you are up for an award, know your time constraints. Don’t hesitate to ask the facilitator what will be expected of you. A formal talk that is too short can make you look nervous, not well thought out and ill prepared. However, too long of a speech can be viewed as arrogant or rambling. When the music comes up, wrap it up!

Say Thank You

A great start is thanking the organization or people who are giving you the award. Follow with mentors and those who have influenced you. An example could be your family, a teacher or a former boss who took a chance on you. Don’t make the list too long- audience members grow weary very quickly.

Honor Fellow Nominees

It’s always polite to mention your fellow nominees during your speech. Talk about how pleased you are to be among such an illustrious group of noteworthy peers. A sincere compliment goes a long way in building future goodwill.

Stay on Topic

Your time at the podium should not be used for personal or political rants, nor criticism of any kind. The reason you are up front is to be acknowledged for your hard work. Keep your speech relevant to the award.

Limit Your Jokes

Cracking one ice breaker is okay but make sure to never make fun of colleagues in the process. The “I want to thank all of the little people who I had to step on to get here” is boorish and impolite. No one will think your sarcasm is in good taste.

Encourage Others

To conclude your speech, add something you did that led to your success and encourage others to never give up or stop reaching their goals. Take note of Marketa Irglova’s 2008 speech for winning Best Original Song for the film Once: “No matter how far your dreams are, it’s possible. Fair play for those who dare to dream and don’t give up. This song was written from a perspective of hope, and hope at the end of the day connects us all, no matter how different we are.” Leaving the audience on an uplifting note can inspire others to work as hard and whole heartedly as you.

Bring in a Professional

Finally, if you are nervous of how you will sound, hire a speech instructor to help put your words together and facilitate a smooth and seamless delivery. Plan on meeting once a week for 3 or 4 weeks for optimum overall training. They can help with your nerves, body language, tone of voice, inflections and filler words.

You may also like How to Prepare an Acceptance Speech . For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on   Inc. ,  subscribe  to her   articles   on   The Huffington Post , “like” The Protocol School of Texas on  Facebook , and follow her on  Pinterest ,  Instagram   and   Twitter . Order Diane’s forthcoming book,   Modern Etiquette for a Better Life here .

Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.

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How to Write an Acceptance Speech

By: Max Malak

When making a speech at a student awards ceremony or a competition prize distribution, students try to remember and thank all of their close ones. Being accepted in a college of your choice is itself a big achievement. If you are to give a speech on your acceptance to a college or for winning an award for a competition, you need to know some crucial rules. To make it easier for you, we have jotted down key principles and tips to help you craft a great acceptance speech.

Introduction

Prepare yourself mentally, make a list, discuss your struggles, tell a story, get a reference, notes and cue cards, keep it balanced, focus on the positive aspects, express gratitude, record your speech, calculate the total time, practice a lot, parts of acceptance speech.

Do you have a fear of public speaking? No problem! You can read out the speech you've written on the paper. But, there is one condition: the speech must be killing! And, here comes the million-dollar question: how? Well, first off, divide your speech in the following template:

The first step is to write a catchy introduction. An introduction that has the power to grab the attention of the audience increases the likelihood of your successful performance.

In this part, you may also mark individuals who have received this honor before you. Also, you can mention why this occasion became a reality. Starting a speech with a personal experience or anecdote is well received. This is because such speeches make you closer to the audience.

This part focus on key things that helped you with this victory. And the key reasons why you are making this speech today. You are probably nominated for the Hall of Fame Award or Champion of College Award. Regardless of the reason, mention people you want to thank and why. It could be anyone - a family member, a college, a high school buddy, or any personal connection. Also, mention these names in order of importance.

Simply put, specify what roles did they have in your success. While doing so, ensure you don't bore your audience. Try to keep the momentum that your introduction had. You may also choose to mention a small story or experience related to these people. Or mention an obstacle that you overcame with the help of someone. But, try to keep it interesting. Moreso, adding a little humor really helps to keep the audience awake.

This is the final part of your award acceptance speech. After a great introduction and body, you surely want your speech to have a great end, don't you? So, try these tips:

• Summarize the key points with an interesting word choice.
• Add an interesting question at the end such as: "What could be better than experiencing delivering this speech today?"

Things to Do Before You Start Writing an Award Acceptance Speech

Following this template is not enough to impress your audience. To deliver a perfect speech, here are few tips before you start writing:

To avoid going overboard, this step is crucial. Brainstorm your ideas to make a well-directed acceptance speech that doesn't bore the audience. You have to keep it short and crispy. Make a list of ideas after thoroughly thinking about your experience. Write down your struggle story. Come up with a central theme for your acceptance speech. Make sure to keep your remarks precise.

Remember it's not all about writing it perfectly and crafting a masterpiece. You also have to deliver it in front of an audience. If it's your first-ever award, you need to prepare yourself with all the necessary aspects. Watch speech videos online. Prepare yourself for the big day from each aspect. Try to learn the body language. Most importantly, sleep well and eat well before your speech day to deliver your speech with an alert mind.

This is where you have to list of names people, friends, family members, and coworkers who helped and supported you in this journey. Your organization should be considered before others. Firstly, thank your organization and coworkers or members who were part of the project you are given the award.

So, craft it and work on other parts of the speech. You have to get back to it once you have completed your speech writing and notes to add someone you have missed to include. Discuss it with family or friends to make it more appropriate. Also, you may ask your colleagues to help you with it.

Tips to Follow to Craft an Exceptional Speech

Now that you are well-prepared to start, keep the following tips in mind while writing, and once you're done writing:

Tell the audience how you were able to get such an award and honor. Briefly describe your experiences and struggles. Motivate the audience with your narrative about success and growth. Remember you're not there to bore them. Keep your struggle part short. Don't indulge too much in self-praise.

Brainstorming involves different approaches to create a central message for a good acceptance speech. You may develop a brief narration or a quick story to grab your audience's attention. People love to listen to stories. Plus, it helps them resonate with your speech. But again, your stories shouldn't be too long. Your agenda is to express gratitude. Hence your speech should keep this very point in your mind.

Don't worry if you are struggling with writing a good acceptance speech. You can always look for help online for reference. Different award winners will have distinctive styles of speeches. Try to search for speeches similar to the category of award you're anticipating. Watch public speaking sessions for inspiration. You may also discuss your speech idea with some senior colleague or friend who has been to such an award ceremony or had given a speech. Besides, you can also seek help from an academic writing service. Their writers are experts on all kinds of speech topics.

Ratification won't help. It might destroy your big day. Make notes for yourself. Don't try to memorize the whole speech. Help yourself with these cards. Remember, these are used for hints, pointers, or bullets to recall what you have to talk about next. Make sure to keep used cue cards separately. Fold it when used, or keep a pen to put a cross mark once used. Hence, craft them should effectively.

There is a difference between a good sense of humor and cracking jokes. You don't want to be all over the place. Don't end up being a stand-up comedian on the stage. Try to be sober. Connect with the audience appropriately. However, that doesn't mean you have to be strictly serious throughout. Grab your audience's attention smartly. And, keep it simple. Remember it's your big day; you are an award winner, treat yourself accordingly.

You might have unpleasant experiences and several hurdles on your way to success. But, mentioning those memories is not a good idea at all. So, make sure you don't make inappropriate remarks or indulge in unpleasant memories with coworkers. Avoid being sarcastic towards the organization and your colleagues.

Remember, it is all about being grateful for the honor you are bestowed with. So, jot down the reasons you're thankful for. The audience wants to know how you appreciate the honor you're given. You will have to share your genuine feelings here. But, don't drag them at length with too many emotions.

Recording your speech is another excellent way of identifying the areas of improvement. Indeed, feedback from others is important, but you are your best critique.

You can choose to record it using the audio recorder or a camera. The audio recording will give you an idea of your tone, pitch, frequency, how you deliver the whole thing, and how it sounds. But, why not keep a camera in front and record the entire rehearsal? Doing so will help you look at your body language and expressions too. This will help you improve things that seem off to you.

Calculating the time of your speech is also crucial. You may be too excited to share a lot of details. This is why it is important to check how much is the reading time of your speech. No one is interested in listening to long boring speeches.

So, read your speech aloud, if it is too long, reduce some moments. You don't necessarily have to exclude a few names from the list of people you created. Try to shorten the story of why you are thanking them. In contrast, if the speech is too short, it's time to add more details.

Repeat the process and improve your speech until it reaches the desired duration.

We all feel butterflies in the stomach in such situations. Practice will help you control your nerves. Ask your friends and family members to sit in front and listen to your speech. Read it out loud to them. Try to connect with them. Assume yourself being in the award ceremony. Maintain eye contact with the audience. Keep noticing the audience's reaction and expression. This will let your nerves settle down. It will also address issues with the speech, if any. Ask for feedback and suggestions. Make changes where necessary. This rehearsal will also help you refine your speech. You may also be able to alter the flow of the acceptance speech.

Now that you're aware of the key elements that your speech should have and how to prepare yourself let's get rolling. Write a memorable speech following our tips and be ready to leave the audience in awe. All the best!

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So, you have to give a good acceptance speech. Congratulations. But, what is the event? The Oscar Awards ceremony, a presentation evening or an office party speech? No matter the event, there are some simple techniques for how to give an acceptance speech.

Discover How To Give An Acceptance Speech

Know How To Give Your Acceptance Speech

Most, but not all acceptance speeches are short. So, take a cue from the Academy Awards (The Oscars). They organised a 45 second speech rule for acceptance speeches back in 2010. Therefore, you can expect any Oscars acceptance speech to be curtailed with a musical accompaniment after 45 seconds. It does work. Because there are so many examples of acceptance speeches that never seem to stop. The Golden Globe Awards aren't so public with their acceptance speech notes. But television ratings typically rule the roost.

But, beyond brevity your acceptance speech should contain all the right elements. Yes, those key points that just have to be there.

How To Give An Acceptance Speech

What You Should Include In Your Acceptance Speech.

• An introduction, perhaps with a story, such as this storytelling acceptance speech from Emma Watson.
• Thanks to people who have helped you
• Next steps or learning points
• Thank you, and goodbye

And that really is it. Your acceptance speech is just your chance to say thank you for the recognition. And, yes it's a thank you for the appreciation. Not least, because you are grateful for the privilege. That certainly came through with the Kate Winslet acceptance speech at the Golden Globe Awards for Mildred Pierce .

So, who will you mention in your acceptance speech? Again, it's best to keep your list short. Because we've all heard those acceptance speeches where every member of the family is mentioned, plus the masseuse and the pet dog.

Election Acceptance Speeches

Edward Malnick of The Sunday Telegraph discovered a fascinating Conservative Party internal email to all putative MPs at the recent General Election. In a measured tone it reminds the would-be MPs that their local counts are not the Oscars. Superb. Among other things it noted:

• 1 Keep your acceptance speech short, local and uncontroversial
• 2 Don't celebrate like a football goalscorer
• 3 Prepare a short speech ahead of time
• 4 Go to the lavatory in good time, as it's a long night
• 5 Keep smiling and don't do an interview

Some excellent points, of course.

It's not the Oscars, avoid football-style celebrations and go to the loo before the count: the election-night rules for Tory candidates https://t.co/a3YIXjSe0K — Edward Malnick (@edwardmalnick) 14 December 2019

So, seriously, aim to keep your thanks relevant to the main subject. If you are lucky enough to be in with a chance of winning a BAFTA or a Grammy, a Golden Globe, an Oscar, a Brit or an RPS Award we might expect to hear you thank the producers. But, if it's Harvey Weinstein, perhaps not. Will Pavia, New York correspondent for The Times , calculates that former movie mogul, Harvey Weinstein was name-checked 11 times during his career by best actor/ actress and best supporting actor/ actress Oscar winners. But, no more .

Stories Always Work In Your Acceptance Speech

Stories always work well in an acceptance speech. But you have to tell them well. Of course, Colin Firth did just that with his BAFTA fridge speech when he won a BAFTA for A Single Man , in 2010. That speech also managed to link the story as a central theme.

Humour works, but it's always tricky and is perhaps best left to the experts. A Lady Gaga acceptance speech delivered via video proved fun and commendable. And then this Steve Coogan acceptance speech at the 2019 British Academy Britannia Awards in Beverly Hills is another superb example. It is, of course a bit lengthy. But, when you are the feature of the evening, everything is possible.

Getting Serious About Your Speech

Of course not every acceptance speech involves showbiz. Some are really quite serious. This Maajid Nawaz speech for the 2018 Morris B. Abram Human Rights Award is also a fine example. Yes, it's on the long side. But again, his speech is clearly the main feature of the evening. Well done.

And, when you have finished your acceptance speech, you can return the microphone and re-take your seat in the audience. Of course, the after-party beckons. But it's also very polite to listen to all the remaining awards and their associated speeches as well. And, it really should go without saying that you should also aim to hold back with the drinks before the awards ceremony gets going…if you are a nominee. Because you might well win. That was clearly a problem with a Mariah Carey speech when she won an award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in 2010.

Now, is there room for an impromptu speech? Of course there is. Just make sure that you follow the impromptu speech advice of former Oscar nominee, Quebec-based director Denis Villeneuve. And then prepare your acceptance speech well in advance.

You can always discover other public speaking tips from Time to Market. Read them, listen to them or watch the videos. It's your choice. and when you want to give your own public speaking skills a real boost, please don't hesitate to ask us about public speaking skills training .

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How to write a killer acceptance speech

One of my favourite activities at work is helping people write better award submissions. There’s nothing more gratifying than seeing someone who attended a workshop take the stage for a well-earned reward. After sitting through many award ceremonies, I can tell you that listening to acceptance speeches can be about as fun as ripping a bandage off a skinned knee. The problem is rife. If you’ve ever watched awards programs like the Oscars or the Grammys you’ll know what I mean. How many times have you seen someone take the stage and be totally unprepared to give a speech? Or act like they were caught off guard? I call foul on that behaviour because nominations are announced well in advance and people know when they enter an award that they might win. The shame is it’s not that hard to write a great acceptance speech, but it does take advance preparation. If you’re writing a speech for yourself, or someone in your organisation, here’s how to impress an audience and come off as a graceful winner.

Gather your facts

Before you start writing, consider what needs to be included in a killer acceptance speech. Reflect on why you won and who helped get you there.

• Who nominated you?
• Who encouraged you to get involved with the project or event that you’ve been recognised for?
• What is your connection to the people sponsoring the award?
• How do you feel about the organisation’s people and/or the goals of the organisation?
• No-one will remember details of an acceptance speech. They will remember stories. If you’re the speech writer for someone else, you may need to guide them on finding a story to tell. Find a recent account of how the winner impacted a person and tell their story.

Know how much time winners have on stage

Usually event organisers give two to five minutes for an acceptance speech, which is hardly any time at all. If you do get five minutes or more, that may include the time it takes to walk to the podium. Plan for three words per second.

Don’t disrespect the audience

There’s nothing worse than having a winner act bewildered about why they’re standing with a trophy in their hand. It’s a waste of everyone’s time and you’ve squandered an opportunity to position your organisation with the people in the room. This is not the time for self-deprecation. It never sounds genuine and is disrespectful to the other entrants. If the best you can do is claim you weren’t worthy of the award – or you were just having a bit of fun with your mates – then in my book the judges made a mistake.

Leave the jokes at home

Don’t try to add humour in an acceptance speech (unless it’s a comedy award). It’s easy to unintentionally offend people in a diverse group. If it falls flat, you’ve wasted precious time and potentially rattled yourself or the speaker accepting the award.

Constructing the speech in six steps

• Get straight to the point. Don’t waste a second of precious time acting surprised or gathering your thoughts.
• Express gratitude. Be genuine. Recognise the other nominees. You can do it in a sentence or two:

“I’m honoured to stand here, especially in the company of so many worthy organisations. I’m truly humbled to receive this award on behalf of Gertrud’s Bakery.”

• Focus on your relationship with the organisation giving the award. They’ll want to be recognised and you should do it early in the speech. What is your connection to them? Why are they giving you this award? Why did you win the category?

“I’d like to thank the Chamber of Commerce for their efforts to showcase local business, especially family businesses. It’s an honour to be recognised for the work started by my grandmother’s vision to produce the best bread and baked goods in our city.”

• Mention people who have helped you get on that stage. First, mention who nominated you. Next, if it was a team effort, include the people responsible for the project or work that contributed to winning the event.

“I’m grateful to Laura Becker, who nominated us for this award. She’s been a true champion for the work we’re doing to bring affordable, artisan-quality bread to people experiencing food insecurity in our city.

“I want to thank our staff, who work tirelessly every day to provide the best customer service and quality product. We wouldn’t be here without their dedication and talent.  

“We are grateful for the financial support from the Small Business Community Fund which made it possible to increase our baking capacity. Their grant for fuel-efficient commercial appliances has also helped lower our operating costs and improve our profit margins.”

• End on a personal/heartfelt note about what it means to win the award.

“My grandmother arrived from Germany with handwritten family recipes and not much else. I wish she knew how many people her bread helps nourish every day and the pleasure it gives them to eat it.”

• Give a final thanks.

“Thank you, once again, for recognising the important work we do in the community. I know everyone at Gertrud’s will feel as elated as I am to receive the Family Business Excellence Award.”

Don’t write the speech word for word

Unless it’s a lifetime achievement award or the winner has a lot of mic time and a lot of people to thank, it’s best to stick with notes. Put them on a small card in bullet-point format instead of using verbatim text. Nothing makes the audience groan faster than watching the speaker unfold a piece of paper and read directly from it.

Don’t wing it

If you’re the speechwriter or work in marketing, hold practice sessions before the event. You want to ensure the speech runs on time and the speaker is comfortable with the material. Don’t skip this step if you’re the speaker. Words on a page don’t easily translate into great delivery without practice. One of the big mistakes people make when accepting an award is forgetting to thank the event organisers and/or sponsors of the award. By putting them at the front of your speech, it lays out the structure and focuses the speaker on what’s most important. This is especially helpful if the person accepting the award is not a natural speaker or gets overwhelmed in the moment. Lastly, don’t carry acceptance speech notes on your phone – this is a time when note cards work better. Winners often immediately begin to get text messages, which can distract the speaker. What are your tips for writing a great acceptance speech?

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The Importance of Interpersonal Acceptance

What happens when important people in our lives don’t seem to accept us.

Posted August 9, 2024 | Reviewed by Davia Sills

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This post was co-written by Dawn O. Braithwaite, Ph.D., and Toni Maisano, Ph.D.

Two friends recently lost their fathers, and while both loved their fathers and believed their fathers loved them, each described that relationship very differently. The first friend expressed, “Dad was always so encouraging and never pushed me in directions he thought I should go.” The second friend never felt accepted by her father. After he passed, she told her mother, “I don’t think Dad ever really liked me very much,” to which her mother replied, “I just don’t think Dad ever understood you.”

Do you hear your own feelings about your relationship with one or both parents in these examples? Our desire for acceptance persists in childhood and throughout adulthood as well. A woman in her mid-20s told two middle-aged friends, “I cannot wait to get to your age so that I don’t need to care what my mother thinks about me.”

The two women laughed out loud and exclaimed, “Oh goodness, you’ll always care what your parents think about you. And you will hear their voice in your head even when they are gone!”

Interpersonal Acceptance

Interpersonal acceptance is the sense of being cared for and loved unconditionally by the most important people in our lives, such as a parent or a primary caregiver (Ali et al., 2024; Rohner, 2021). We better understand acceptance by reflecting on its opposite: feeling rejected, experienced as emotional coldness or a lack of affection, neglect, hostility, or the general feeling of being unwanted (Ali et al., 2023). Researchers studying parent-child relationships across cultures have confirmed that feeling fully accepted by a parent or primary caregiver is incredibly important for our mental health and social relationships throughout life (Khaleque, A., & Ali, S., 2017). Feeling accepted is important across life and in our close relationships.

Despite this, there are many reasons why it might be challenging for parents to consistently and effectively communicate acceptance. The reality is that children will have their own needs, wants, and experiences and may follow a different path than parents want or expect. For example, what happens when a child chooses not to enter the family business, to cohabit rather than marry, to take a job across the country, or to not have children? When this is the case, how can parents communicate with children who are not doing what parents believe they should do?

Communicating Acceptance Across Differences

To study communicating acceptance, Toni interviewed adult children who said they had a significant religious difference with at least one of their parents, focusing on how the parent did or did not communicate acceptance (Morgan & Koenig Kellas, 2022). Toni and her colleague developed helpful suggestions that all of us may find useful when we face making choices about what to do or say when important differences come up:

Communicate that the relationship is stable: We can communicate acceptance by demonstrating through words and actions that our relationship with them won’t change, even when there is tension or difficulty. One person who left his family’s faith tradition explained that “the relationship before this and after this is largely, largely the same. They treat me with as much love and respect and investment as they did before this.”

Communicate that you care without trying to change the other person: We can communicate acceptance by making explicit attempts to understand their perspective, even when disagreeing with it. One person had left Catholicism and was now an atheist. Her mom communicated acceptance by doing the following: “She heard me out. She didn’t try to convince me. She . . . took my answers as valid [even] though she was disappointed that I didn’t have the same beliefs.”

Communicate understanding that the other person has the right to make their own decisions: We can communicate acceptance by recognizing and affirming that others are independent and need to make the right decisions for themselves. For example, one person recalled how her father responded when she came out to him about her sexuality , “I just remember him letting me know he loved me and that he wanted me to be happy. This is what he believed the Bible says, but that he knows I’m a grown woman and that I can make my own decisions.”

Communicate pride in specific aspects of the other person’s identity : We can communicate acceptance by expressing pride in who the other is as a person, such as in their role as a sibling , parent, friend, or in their talent as a worker, athlete , or artist. For example, one person stressed that he knew his mother accepted him when she would express pride in his work as an excellent high school teacher and would brag to her friends. He recalled she’d also “tell me she’s proud of me, without people around, but I think there’s something very heartwarming and affirming when she takes it to actual people, and she’s like, ‘Oh, my kid’s so great.’”

In the end, it can be challenging to communicate acceptance as others grow up, change, and develop into unique, diverse, passionate, perfectly imperfect people. The good news is that how we communicate acceptance can develop and change across the life of a relationship. This is something we need to put into practice over the years, and many of the people Toni interviewed noted that their parents had improved how they communicated acceptance over the years.

Even so, it is important to note that people are not always willing or able to communicate acceptance. Sometimes, issue(s) of disagreement are so central to identity that the person believes they must hold the course.

For example, what happens when a parent perceives that a child has sacrificed their soul when they leave the family faith tradition or convert to a different religion? Or if a friend believes another person is abusing alcohol or drugs? These are difficult decisions that may damage or end the relationship. People may distance themselves from the relationship, choose estrangement over sacrificing their beliefs (Braithwaite & Allen, 2022), or pursue other relationships that can bring them acceptance and joy.

Ali, S., Rohner, R. P., Britner, P. A., & Jahn, A. (2024). Longing for belonging: Feeling loved (or not) and why it matters. Family Relations .

Braithwaite, D. O. & Allen, J. (2022). When family estrangement can be the healthiest choice. Psychology Today . https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/communication-matters/202208/when-family-estrangement-can-be-the-healthiest-choice

Khaleque, A., & Ali, S. (2017). A systematic review of meta-analyses of research on interpersonal acceptance-rejection theory: Constructs and measures. Journal of Family Theory & Review.

Morgan, T., & Koenig Kellas, J. (2022). Communicating across eternal divides: Conceptualizing communicated acceptance during parent-child religious difference. Journal of Family Communication.

Rohner, R. P. (2021). Introduction to interpersonal acceptance-rejection theory (IPARTheory) and evidence. Online Readings in Psychology and Culture.

Dawn O. Braithwaite, Ph.D., a professor of communication at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, studies families and close relationships, especially step- and chosen families.

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Democratic National Convention speakers include Biden, Obama and the Clintons

Several prominent Democratic figures are set to speak at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this month, two sources familiar with the plans told NBC News.

President Joe Biden, former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have been confirmed as speakers at the convention. Obama and the Clintons delivered speeches during the 2020 DNC, which was largely held virtually to prevent the spread of Covid-19 amid the pandemic.

A source familiar said that former President Jimmy Carter’s grandson Jason Carter is also confirmed to be speaking as a representative for his grandfather.

The convention, which is scheduled for Aug. 19-22 in Chicago, takes place weeks after Biden announced his withdrawal from the race following widespread calls from Democrats to drop out after his disastrous June debate performance against former President Donald Trump. His campaign suffered major losses in donations and some backers withdrew their support for the president amid the fallout.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who ran unopposed for the Democratic presidential nomination after Biden dropped out of the race, secured the majority of delegate votes to win the nomination during the virtual voting process earlier this month. The Harris campaign last week announced Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate .

Harris, who is the first Black woman and first Indian American in U.S. history to secure a major party’s presidential nomination, will formally accept the Democratic Party’s nomination at the convention.

The momentum leading up to the convention has surged since Harris announced her presidential campaign last month, with a significant increase in requests for entry into the main event space at the United Center and other convention-related events in the city, people close to the convention and event planning told NBC News.

The Harris campaign raised a historic $310 million last month , and $36 million in the 24 hours after she announced Walz as her running mate.

Yamiche Alcindor is an NBC News Washington correspondent.

Summer Concepcion is a politics reporter for NBC News.

More From Forbes

15 presentation tips for captivating your audience and commanding the room.

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Public speaking can be a daunting task, especially when addressing a large audience. Whether you're giving a presentation in the boardroom or delivering a keynote speech at a conference, holding your audience's attention and maintaining command of the room is paramount. The ability to captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression not only enhances your message's impact but also builds your reputation as a confident and effective speaker.

Here, Forbes Coaches Council members share invaluable tips and strategies to help you conquer your fear of public speaking and ensure that your next presentation or speech is a resounding success.

1. Be Confident

Be grounded and confident to be yourself and then tell great stories. Use your voice and the stage to bring the stories alive. Your audience will connect to the emotion of the story but make sure that it is relevant for your audience and related to the topic. - Cath Daley , Cath Daley Ltd

2. Find A Way To Actively Engage The Audience

Be prepared with ways to get your audience engaged and keep their focus. Whether that's relating to your audience, telling a joke or asking questions, actively driving engagement will make for a more effective presentation or speech. - Luke Feldmeier , Online Leadership Training - Career and Leadership Accelerator for Engineers

3. Create An Emotional Connection

Creating an emotional connection with the audience and involving them in your session fosters active participation, and ensures your audience stays engaged throughout. This also serves to enhance your presence and to create memories that stay with them long after your presentation ends. - Kristin Andree , Andree Group

4. Put Your Unique Take Front And Center

Do you have something unexpected to say about your topic? Something that goes against the mainstream opinion in your industry or is maybe even slightly provocative? If so, putting your unique take front and center in the title and the beginning of your talk and explaining or resolving it later keeps your audience engaged and interested. - Micha Goebig , Go Big Coaching & Communications, LLC

5. Remember That The Audience Doesn't Know Your Planned Speech

No one wants to see you fail as a speaker. Remember that the focus shouldn't be on whether or not you can recall verbatim every word of your planned speech. The focus should be on how to connect to your audience with a few key points using a combination of storytelling and facts. - Sheri Nasim , Center for Executive Excellence

6. Adapt Your Language To The Audience

Talk about something they are interested in or include elements that will keep them interested. Start by asking why your topic matters to each and every one of them. Use language adapted to the audience. Keep the key messages to two or three maximum. Show them what you think and why you care about the topic. - Isabelle Claus Teixeira , Business and Human Development Consulting Pte Ltd

7. Try To Incorporate An Element Of Surprise

Engagement is the key to keeping the audience's attention. Invite participation, tell stories, walk around, have visuals, include humor, raise your voice and ask questions. Think of a comedian who points at someone in the audience: "Hey, you with the red shirt?" Everyone pays attention. What element of surprise can you present? - Susan Jordan, MBA, MSODL, PCC , Sphereshift Coaching and Consulting

8. Know Your Audience

Doing research ahead of time to ensure you're providing the subject matter in a personalized manner will keep their attention. The topic will dictate the necessary vibe. Based on that, providing opportunities for the group to engage, such as shouting out a word, raising a hand, etc., will also help maintain their interest. - Lindsay Miller , Reverie Organizational Development Specialists

9. Use The Problem-Agitation-Solution Approach

Don't just give a presentation — share a story. It must be a story-audience fit though. Use the P.A.S. — problem-agitation-solution — approach. Start with introducing a problem, follow by agitating the problem via telling a relevant anecdote and conclude by offering a solution by giving an audience a clear, direct way to avoid the pain and learn the lesson. - Alla Adam , Alla Adam Coaching

10. Tell The Audience What They Need To Hear

Instead of trying to figure out what to say, figure out what the audience wants and needs to hear. This shift in perspective allows you to tailor your speech in a way that keeps audiences actively engaged because it's good content that they want to hear. - Robin Pou , The Confident Leader

11. Go All In

To command your audience's attention you have to get into the spirit of what you're teaching and go all in without second-guessing yourself. People want to be led, but they'll be unwilling to follow someone who isn't confident in what they are communicating. - Arash Vossoughi , Voss Coaching Co.

12. Use A Compelling Opening

Start your speech/presentation with a compelling opening that grabs the audience's attention. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant story or a thought-provoking question. This initial engagement can help you establish a strong connection with the audience and set the stage for a captivating presentation. - Moza-Bella Tram , Moza-Bella LLC

Forbes Coaches Council is an invitation-only community for leading business and career coaches. Do I qualify?

13. Be Authentic

Connect deeply with your essence and purpose. Radiate authenticity. When you're centered in genuine passion and truth others feel it, creating an unspoken bond. It's not about performing; it's about being present and real and offering value from the heart. That's magnetic. - Anna Yusim, MD , Yusim Psychiatry, Consulting & Executive Coaching

14. Let Your Audience Talk

There is nothing worse than stealing everyone's craving for autonomy and speaking the whole time. The person who does the talking does the learning. So, give some autonomy to the audience. Let them talk. Even if it's thinking time and talking to themselves, or to their neighbor or table group. This gains trust and they will lean into what you have to say even more. - Alex Draper , DX Learning Solutions

15. Leverage Non-Verbal Cues

My top tip is to engage your audience through storytelling. A compelling narrative captures attention, evokes emotion and makes complex ideas more relatable. Additionally, use body language and eye contact effectively. These non-verbal cues can significantly enhance your connection with the audience. - Peter Boolkah , The Transition Guy

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'A night of hope': JD Vance accepts GOP vice president nomination. Read his RNC speech.

Editor's note: The following is the pre-released prepared GOP Vice Presidential Nomination Acceptance Speech delivered by U.S. Sen. JD Vance of Ohio at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

My fellow Americans, my name is JD Vance , from the great state of Ohio.

Tonight is a night of hope. A celebration of what America once was, and with God’s grace, what it will soon be again.

And it is a reminder of the sacred duty that we have to preserve the American experiment, to choose a new path for our children and grandchildren.

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But as we meet tonight, we cannot forget that this evening could have been much different. Instead of a day of celebration, this could have been a day of heartache and mourning.For the last eight years, President Trump has given everything he has to fight for the people of our country. He didn’t need politics, but the country needed him.

Prior to running for president, he was one of the most successful businessmen in the world. He had everything anyone could ever want in a life. And yet, instead of choosing the easy path, he chose to endure abuse, slander, and persecution.

But don’t take my word for it, go and watch the video of a would-be assassin coming a quarter of an inch from taking his life. Consider the lies they told you about Donald Trump. And then look at the photo of him defiant – fist in the air.

When Donald J. Trump rose to his feet in that Pennsylvania field – all of America stood up with him.

'I love you, mom': JD Vance says his mom is 10 years sober

Even in his most perilous moment we were on his mind. His instinct was for US. To call us to something higher. To something greater. To once again be citizens who ask what our country needs of us.

He called for national unity, for calm. He remembered the victims of the terrible attack, especially the brave Corey Comperatore , who gave his life to protect his family.

And then President Trump Flew to Milwaukee and got back to work.

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That is the man I’ve gotten to know personally over the last few years.

He is our once and future president future president of the United States.

And I want to respond to his call for unity myself.

And my message to my fellow Americans is: shouldn’t we be governed by a party that is unafraid to debate ideas and come to the best solution?

That’s the Republican Party of the next four years: united in our love for America and committed to free speech and the open exchange of ideas.

So tonight, I stand here humbled, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude, to say..

I officially accept your nomination to be vice president of the United States of America.

Never in my wildest imagination would I have believed that I could be standing here tonight.

Trump's VP pick: Ohioans have not-so-pretty things to say about JD Vance

I grew up in Middletown, Ohio, a small town where people spoke their minds, built with their hands, and loved their God, family, community, and country with their whole hearts.

But it was also a place that had been cast aside and forgotten by America’s ruling class in Washington.

When I was in the fourth grade, a career politician by the name of Joe Biden supported NAFTA , a bad trade deal that sent countless good American manufacturing jobs to Mexico.

When I was a sophomore in high school, a career politician by the name of Joe Biden gave China a sweetheart trade deal that destroyed even more good middle class jobs.

And when I was a senior in high school, Joe Biden supported the disastrous invasion of Iraq.

And at each step of the way, in small towns like mine in Ohio, or next door in Pennsylvania, or in Michigan and other states across our country, jobs were sent overseas and children were sent to war.

Somehow, a real estate developer from New York by the name of Donald Trump was right on all of these issues while Joe Biden was wrong. Donald Trump knew, even then, that we needed leaders who would put America First.

Thanks to these policies that Biden and the other out-of-touch politicians in Washington gave us, our country was flooded with cheap Chinese goods and cheap foreign labor… And in the decades to come, deadly Chinese fentanyl.

Joe Biden screwed up, and my community paid the price.

Now, I was lucky. Despite the closing factories and the growing addiction in towns like mine, in my life, I had a guardian angel by my side. She was an old woman who could barely walk but was tough as nails.

I called her “Mamaw,” the name we hillbillies gave to our grandmothers.

Mamaw raised me as her own as my own mother struggled with addiction.

Thanks to Mamaw, things worked out for me.

After 9/11, I did what thousands of other young men my age did in that time of soaring patriotism and love of country: I enlisted in the United States Marines.

I left the Marines after four years and went to the Ohio State, and then to law school at Yale—where I met my beautiful wife—and then started businesses to create jobs in the kinds of places I grew up.

My work taught me that there is still so much talent and grit in the American heartland. But for these places to thrive, we need a leader who fights for the people who built this country.

We need President Donald J. Trump.

Some people tell me I’ve lived the American Dream, and they are right.

But the American Dream that always counted most was not starting a business or becoming a senator or even being here with you fine people, it was becoming a good husband and a good dad, and of giving my family the things I never had as a kid.

And that’s the accomplishment I’m proudest of.

That tonight I’m joined by my beautiful wife, Usha, an incredible lawyer and a better mom, and our three kids — Ewan, Vivek, Mirabel—hopefully in bed.

Things did not work out well for a lot kids I grew up with. Every now and then I will get a call from a relative back home who asks, did you know “so and so.” And I’ll remember a face from years ago. And then I’ll hear, “they died of an overdose.”

As always, America’s ruling class wrote the checks; communities like mine paid the price.

For decades, that divide between the few, with their power and comfort in Washington, and the rest of us only widened.

From Iraq to Afghanistan, from the financial crisis to the Great Recession, from open borders to stagnating wages, the people who govern this country have failed and failed again.

That is, until President Donald J. Trump came along.

Donald Trump represents America’s last best hope to restore what – if lost – may never be found again.

But my fellow Americans, this moment is not about me, it’s about all of us, and who we’re fighting for.

It’s about the auto worker in Michigan, wondering why out of touch politicians are destroying your jobs.

It’s about the factory worker in Wisconsin, who makes things with their hands and is proud of American craftsmanship.

It’s about the energy worker in Pennsylvania and Ohio, who doesn’t understand why Joe Biden is willing to buy energy from tinpot dictators but not hard-working Americans right here at home.

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And, it’s about single moms like mine, who struggled with money and addiction but never gave up.

And I am proud to say that tonight my mom is here, 10 years clean and sober .

I love you, mom.

It's about grandparents all across this country, who are living on Social Security and raising grandchildren they didn't expect to raise.

Joe Biden has been a politician in Washington for longer than I've been alive.

For half-a-century, he's been the champion of every major policy initiative to make America weaker and poorer.

In four years, Donald Trump reversed decades of betrayals inflicted by Joe Biden and the rest of the corrupt Washington insiders.

He created the greatest economy in history for workers. Just imagine what he can do with four more years in the White House.

Months ago, I heard some young family member observe that their parents’ generation—the baby boomers—could afford to buy a home when they first entered the workforce. “But I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to afford a home,” they said sadly.

The absurd cost of housing is the result of many failures of America’s leadership class. And I can tell you exactly how it happened.

Wall Street barons crashed the economy and American builders went out of business.

As tradesmen scrambled for jobs, houses stopped being built.

The lack of good jobs led to stagnant wages.

Then Democrats flooded the country with illegal immigrants.

So citizens had to compete – with people who shouldn’t even be here – for precious housing.

Joe Biden’s inflation crisis is really an affordability crisis.

Many of the people that I grew up with can't afford to pay more for groceries, more for gas, more for rent, and that's exactly what Joe Biden’s economy has given them. So prices soared and dreams were shattered.

And China and the cartels sent fentanyl across the border, adding addiction to the heartache.

But that’s not the end of our story.

We’ve heard about the villains and their victims. But let me tell you about the future.

President Trump’s vision is simple - we won’t cater to Wall Street, we’ll commit to the working man

We won’t import foreign labor, we’ll fight for American citizens.We won’t buy energy from countries that hate us, we’ll get it right here from American Workers.We won’t sacrifice our supply chains to unlimited global trade, we’ll stamp every product Made in the USA. We will build factories again, put people to work making real products for American families, made with the hands of American workers.Together, we will protect the wages of American workers—union and non-union alike—and stop the Chinese Communist Party from building THEIR middle class on the backs of our hard-working citizens.Together, we will make our allies share in the burden of securing world peace: no more free rides for nations that betray the generosity of the American taxpayer.Together, we will send our kids to war only when we must.

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But as President Trump showed with the elimination of ISIS, when we punch, we will punch hard.Together, we will put the citizens of America first, whatever the color of their skin. We will, in short, make America great again. I am married to the daughter of South Asian immigrants to this country, incredible people, people who genuinely have enriched the country in so many ways.And of course, I'm biased, because I love my wife, but I believe that it's true.

When I proposed to my wife, we were in law school, and I said, Honey, I come with $120,000 worth of law school debt, and a cemetery plot on a mountainside in eastern Kentucky.That cemetery plot in Eastern Kentucky is near my family’s ancestral home. Like a lot of people, we came from the mountains of Appalachia into the factories of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin.This is Kentucky coal country, by the way, one of the 10 poorest counties in the entire United States of America.They are very hardworking people, and they're very good people, and they would give you the shirt off their back.The media call them “privileged” and look down on them.But they love this country, not only because it's a good idea. But because in their bones, they know that this is their home, and it will be their children's home, and they would die fighting to protect it. That is the source of America's greatness.

As a U.S. senator , I get to represent millions of people in the state of Ohio with similar stories, and it’s the great honor of my life.

But never forget that the reason why this united Republican Party exists, why we do this, why we care about all those great ideas and that great history, is that we want this nation to thrive for centuries to come.

Eventually, in that mountain cemetery, my children will lay me to rest. And when they do, I would like them to know that thanks to the work of this Republican Party, the United States of America is as strong and as proud and as great as ever.And the thing that we have to do, right now, to make that happen, is to re-elect President Donald J. Trump!Mr. President, I will never take for granted the trust you have put in me. And what an honor it is to help achieve the extraordinary vision you have for our country.

I pledge to every American - no matter your party, I will give everything I have to serve you and to make this country a place where every dream you have for yourself, your family, and your country will be possible once again.

And I promise you one more thing - the people of Middletown, Ohio, and all the forgotten communities in Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and every corner of our nation…

I promise you this - I will never forget where I came from.

And every single day for the next four years, when I walk into that White House to help President Trump,I will be doing it for you and for your family and for your future.

Thank you, God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.

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