Ways to Start an Award Talk

People may give many speeches during their careers, but there is something special about giving a talk as you accept an award. It’s a unique moment to be asked to share what this honor means as you talk about the events that led up to this point. While folks may have an idea of what they’d like to highlight during their speech, how to start it can be overwhelming. I’ve found the best way to begin an award talk, is to start by reflecting on what this moment means. Reflection is a powerful tool and it can be used in a variety of ways.

That’s why you could open your talk with:

When I found out I got this award, I started to reflect on everything it’s taken to get to this point.

When I first started (this project, my career, learning this skill)... I never envisioned I would end up here.

I remember attending this conference early on in my career and seeing someone else get this award. I was so inspired by that person’s journey… and it’s amazing to be standing here today.

I never imagined I’d be up here accepting this award. I remember when I was first starting out I thought I would be…

Inspiration is unpredictable. You never know what you’ll be doing when an idea comes to you. I remember being in…

I may be the one getting this award, but I did not get here alone. There were some very important people I was lucky enough to work with, and it’s with their partnership that I am standing here today.

When I was younger, I always wanted to be… I dreamed of…

This is an amazing honor. And I have to say that getting here has been quite an adventure. When I think back on it, a few key moments really stand out.

If you have the rare opportunity to give a talk as you receive an award, try opening the speech by reflecting on what this moment means. It’ll help you connect with the audience as you share your important work.


Author: Bri McWhorter, MFA
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