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.
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.
Stand in front of a mirror while you read your speech out loud so you can work on your eye contact and facial expressions. [6] X Expert Source Lynn KirkhamPublic Speaking Coach Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
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.
Pay attention to your body language in the recording. [9] X Expert Source Lynn KirkhamPublic Speaking Coach Expert Interview. 20 November 2019. Are you standing up straight? Are you moving your hands around nervously? Use the recording to improve your body language so you look more confident giving your speech. Notice how your voice sounds. Make sure you’re speaking loud enough and that what you’re saying is clear and understandable.
