CHAMPION STRATEGIES – PUBLIC SPEAKING WORKSHOP – APRIL 13, 2021 -2
Your Guide to Giving a Great Farewell Speech
2. Draft an introduction
In your introduction, you should:
- Greet the audience.
- Thank them for listening.
- Present your speech’s purpose.
You really only need a few sentences for your introduction. If you’re unsure of what to say, it can be helpful to write the rest of the speech first and then revisit this section. That way you have a better idea of your speech’s tone and contents, allowing you to come up with a strong opening.
3. Include anecdotes that fit the tone
Generally, going away speeches should have a respectful, honest, and conversational tone. You want to keep things professional yet relaxed. A great way to engage with your audience is to tell a few funny stories or jokes. Just make sure that your humor is appropriate for your work environment and company culture.
4. Proofread and edit
When editing, it’s useful to read the speech aloud because it helps you recognize opportunities for improvement, such as unnatural word choices or an awkward flow. Additionally, look for places to streamline the content so that it is more clear and concise. Effective speeches typically last between three and five minutes to maintain maximum engagement.
5. Get a second opinion
Before you present your speech, read it to a trusted coworker and get their opinion about potential areas for improvement.
Tips for giving a goodbye speech to colleagues at work
Here are a few tips for effectively delivering your going away speech:
- Focus on the positive.
- Act natural, allowing yourself to laugh or smile with the audience.
- Try to remain calm by focusing on a friend and taking deep breaths before you begin.
- Make sure you speak clearly and audibly, especially if you aren’t using a microphone.
Farewell speech sample
Here’s an example that you can use as a guide as you write your own goodbye speech:
‘Good evening everyone, and thank you for taking the time to attend this luncheon for my last day at Media Enterprises. I’ve worked at this company for 25 incredible years, and I’m eternally grateful for the advertising career I’ve enjoyed here. When I started, I was just another eager copywriter, hungry for that next stroke of creative genius. I’m so glad I was able to grow with this company and serve as the creative director for so long.
To my incredible creative department, I appreciate the dedication, long hours, and passion that you’ve given to some of our most successful client campaigns, including the Acme Hospital project last year. It has truly been an honor to serve as your creative director, and I’ve never had more fun arguing over color palettes over greasy pizza in the middle of the night.
To my replacement, Tiffany, it has been a joy to watch your professional development over the last 10 years. You have transformed into such an intuitive and insightful leader, and I have no doubt that you’ll accomplish great things here. You have always had a knack for inspiring greatness. I can’t wait to see the incredible work that comes out of this department under your leadership.
I am glad to be retiring, and my wife is overjoyed that she’ll be able to monitor my takeout food intake a little more closely, but I’m definitely going to miss being surrounded by such a brilliant, diverse, and dedicated group of people. Thank you again for everything. I wish each and every one of you the best of luck.’
