What to Expect at an Award Ceremony (2024)

Will I have to give a speech?

For those lucky enough to collect a trophy on stage, sadly it’s unlikely you’ll get the chance to give a speech thanking your colleagues and family for believing in you – it’s not the Oscars! Due to time constraints, it’s usually just a quick handshake with the compere and sponsor, a photo, and then back off to your table while you take in the enormity of having just met Kriss Akabusi in the flesh (sorry, I mean ‘take in the enormity of winning’!).

It is, however, becoming increasingly common for award organisers to do post-stage interviews, whereby, once you’ve come off stage you then get whisked aside to a separate room where you’re asked to give a speech to camera, which will ultimately be posted on the awards website.

A few final top tips for awards ceremonies

  • Take plenty of business cards and make sure you network. At the largest of these events they’ll likely be up to 1,500 people in attendance, so it’s a great chance to connect with people that could become valuable contacts. Keep an eye out for the seating plan, as that will show you who is in attendance – and crucially, where they’re sat!
  • Bring some cash. Most awards will feature a charity collection or raffle mid-way through dinner, with an envelope on the table for donations.
  • Make sure you catch the eye of the photographer. They’ll usually be a one walking around taking photos throughout the course of the event, and it’s a great opportunity to get a professional group photo of your team.
  • Remember to chase up the organisers for copies of your photos in the weeks following the event. Some organisers will send you relevant photos as a matter of course, but often you’ll need to give them a nudge, and don’t be surprised if there’s a small fee required to get copies of them.
  • Above all, support and respect your fellow nominees. Whether you win or lose, be gracious and sporting, and remember that there’s always next year!
  • And lastly, don’t get too boozed up, and avoid piling canapés into your handbags and jackets for a midnight snack later.

What to Expect at an Award Ceremony (1)

“I would like to thank all of my team at the nursery for believing in me.”

What to Expect at an Award Ceremony (2024)

FAQs

What to Expect at an Award Ceremony? ›

Most award ceremonies tend to be split up into four key sections: Drinks reception – a chance to socialise and network around the bar ahead of being seated. Dinner – a three or four-course meal, with tables usually consisting of 10 or 12 guests. Award presentations – what you've all been waiting for!

What to do at an awards ceremony? ›

An awards ceremony should be more than just handing out awards. It should also entertain and engage attendees. Consider including elements such as a keynote speaker relevant to your field, live entertainment, and multimedia presentations that highlight the achievements of the awardees.

What is the etiquette for award ceremonies? ›

Proper audience etiquette is essential for ensuring a successful award ceremony. Audience members should avoid excessive noise, distracting behavior, and inappropriate attire. They should also be respectful of the speakers, the award recipients, and the event as a whole.

How long should an awards ceremony last? ›

Award ceremonies vary in length, but some can last three to four hours, depending on how elaborate the ceremony is. If the ceremony will include entertainment, dinner and the award presentations, having an engaging host who can help keep the program flowing smoothly is imperative.

What do you wear to an award ceremony? ›

Formal: Women should wear longer co*cktail length dresses or full length and men should wear a complete suit with a tie. Black Tie: Black tie is very formal attire. Women should wear full-length dresses or gowns and men should wear a complete tuxedo.

What is the purpose of the award ceremony? ›

Award ceremonies are not just about glitz and glamour; they are a celebration of excellence and a recognition of outstanding achievements. While the ceremony itself often takes center stage, the quality and significance of the award being presented should not be overlooked.

What do you say at an award ceremony for a student? ›

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

What do you say at an award banquet? ›

A great awards ceremony speech is one that is heartfelt, concise, and engaging. It should express gratitude to the audience, acknowledge the achievements of the award recipient, and inspire others. Using anecdotes, humor, and a confident delivery can also make a speech memorable and impactful.

How do you say thank you in award ceremony? ›

I'm deeply grateful for what I have received. Ladies and gentlemen, my heartfelt welcome to one and all gathered here today. On this gracious occasion, I'm privileged to deliver my award acceptance Speech in front of you all. It is a complete honour to be standing here and speaking to this lovely audience.

Why do you host an award ceremony? ›

Aside from boosting employee morale, hosting an employee awards ceremony is crucial because it shines a spotlight on top performers. While this recognition rewards their efforts, it also sparks some healthy competition. Employees feel motivated to excel, seeing how their achievements can be celebrated.

How do you anchor an award ceremony? ›

[Anchor 1]: Let's start with the first category, [Mention the Category/Event]. [Anchor 2]: And, the award for [the Category/Event] goes to [Winner's Name or Team name]. Congratulations! Please come up on stage to receive your award.

How do you present an award to someone? ›

Presenting Awards
  1. Tell a story about the significance of the award.
  2. Pronounce names of the recipients correctly.
  3. Provide background on the recipient.
  4. Hold the award respectfully and hand it to the recipient as if it were a treasure.
  5. Wait to invite the recipient to the lectern until you formally introduce them.

What is the dress to impress award? ›

Dress to Impress Award

An award given to individuals who consistently put a great deal of effort into their appearance and dress in a way that is polished and professional.

How do you present an award of appreciation? ›

Presenting Awards
  1. Tell a story about the significance of the award.
  2. Pronounce names of the recipients correctly.
  3. Provide background on the recipient.
  4. Hold the award respectfully and hand it to the recipient as if it were a treasure.
  5. Wait to invite the recipient to the lectern until you formally introduce them.

How do you start an award ceremony speech? ›

Opening Statement:Begin with a strong and attention-grabbing statement related to the occasion or the significance of the awards. Express Gratitude:Express gratitude for the attendees, organizers, and any relevant individuals or groups who contributed to the event. Set the Tone:Establish the tone of the ceremony.

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