Presentation Skills (Accepting Awards)

Whether you're accepting an Oscar or community recognition, Toastmasters International offers these proven tips for delivering a powerful acceptance speech for any type of award:

1) Show your personality

Your acceptance speech should come from the heart.

2) Be Gracious

Acknowledge the good work done by your fellow nominees and thank the organization that selected you for the award.

3) Show Excitement

You don't have to climb over chairs or even cry, but the audience should recognize that you're happy to have won the award.

4) Be modest

Your acceptance speech should be heartfelt but not self- congratulatory.

5) Practice, Practice, Practice

Rehearse with a timer, memorize key people to thank and allow time for the unexpected.