By Scott Hepner

Have you every watched the acceptance speeches at the Academy Awards?

Have you seen the ones when someone is on stage for too long and they start playing music as a hint to wrap things up? Oh, it’s horrible!

In fairness to the producers, they have a schedule to keep.

I wonder, will you be accepting one of those one day?

I hope you do, but if you don’t, then you might have to accept an award or be recognized at some other event. If you have to give an acceptance speech remember – LESS IS MORE!

The worst thing you can do is talk too much.

There is a reason why we use a Timer in toastmasters. Challenge yourself to make coherent, concise speeches within the time limits. It will help you when you are given your big opportunity.

Here is Rami Malek’s speech from the 2019 Academy Awards. They normally allow for the Best Actor speech to be longer than the others. He starts at the 1:40 mark and ends at 4:40. That’s only 3 minutes! Remember that when it’s your turn!