An award can sometimes be referred to as a “distinction.” It can come in different shapes and forms, such as custom-shaped awards, decorations, prizes, trophies, and monetary incentives, and is ubiquitous in all societies. It is something the recipient receives as a token to make them feel recognized and appreciated for their contributions in their field as an individual or in a group. Furthermore, an award shows a positive feeling from the presenter to the receiver.
For the recipients, awards are an external factor to motivate and gratify their psychological needs, such as recognition, social status, and self-fulfillment. For the presenters, these public honors encourage employees to improve in all areas, create social linkages, and develop positive interactions with the award honorees and the community.
4 Tips for Receiving an Award Graciously
Whether at the Oscars, a local community event, or a gathering, graciously accepting an award is crucial and necessary. Otherwise, those present may feel you do not deserve the prize. How do you want to be remembered—as rude and insensitive or humble and deserving? Read more on this blog to learn how to accept an award graciously.
- Show your gratitude with a heartfelt “Thank you.”
Saying thank you and acknowledging the organizers and presenters of the award is very important, as this shows your gratitude to them for honoring you with an award. Also, consider giving credit where credit is due, especially if it has relevance to your field or community. If you need to name individuals, ensure not to leave anyone out, or you risk damaging feelings and perhaps even making professional enemies.
Even if you want to confine your credit list to a few key people, it will be advisable to go beyond the individual mentions by saying something like, “So many people made this possible, too many to mention.” “Thank you all!”
- Keep your humility in check.
After receiving an award, celebrate with friends and family after the ceremony, not at the podium. You should never act as if you were the obvious choice for the award. The most humble winners seem like they never expected to win. Unless you are sure it is the right setting, you should not celebrate during the ceremony as if you had just scored a touchdown in the Super Bowl or World Cup.
- Show respect and class in your acceptance.
Remember to thank other employees or competitors who nominated you when you accept your award. Showing some respect to them is a display of maturity. Teasing or disparaging comments about your competitors as you accept an award is immature and petty.
- Let your excitement shine through.
Just because you cannot jump up and down while screaming doesn’t mean you cannot look happy. Show the audience that you are glad to be receiving the award. Put on a genuine smile; don’t fake it. No one wants to see a coveted prize go to someone who looks miserable about it or doesn’t genuinely appreciate it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, receiving an award is a wonderful honor. It should be celebrated and appreciated, as there’s nothing more gratifying than recognition from your peers and colleagues for a well-done job. By showing gratitude, humility, and grace, you can make the occasion meaningful for yourself, those who have supported you along the way, and even future generations.
Whether accepting a small community award or a major industry accolade, how you handle the moment can leave a lasting impression and inspire others to do their best. Remember to thank the people who have helped you and acknowledge the hard work of your fellow nominees. Most importantly, take a moment to reflect on your achievements and appreciate the recognition for all of your hard work.
Mike Szczesny is the Owner and Vice President of EDCO Awards & Specialties, a dedicated supplier of employee recognition products, branded merchandise, and athletic and custom-shaped awards. Szczesny takes pride in EDCO's ability to help companies go the extra mile in expressing gratitude and appreciation to their employees. He resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
