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Farewell Speech Examples: How to Say Goodbye with Grace

As much as we’d like our goodbyes — whether to a job, a loved one, or a chapter in our lives — to be extended and leave us with a lasting feeling of warmth and appreciation, that isn’t always the case.

A well-crafted farewell speech has the potential to turn any difficult goodbye into a fond farewell, leaving all parties feeling gracious and grateful. To guide you in bringing your goodbye to its highest form, let’s delve into the art of delivering a good farewell speech.

What is a Farewell Speech?

A farewell speech is a way to mark one’s departure from an organization, group, or event. It’s typically delivered by someone who is leaving or has recently left their role or position in the organization and is typically intended to say thank you and express empathy and gratitude for the audience.

Farewell speeches often include a call to action for those who remain in the group or organization, providing insights and advice that can help the group move forward even after the speaker leaves.

The debate about what constitutes an effective farewell speech depends largely on the context of the particular situation.

On one hand, some people argue that a simple goodbye and thank you are all that is needed in order to properly bid farewell. They might argue that more than this would be repetitive and unhelpful as it would not add any new information or create any additional value.

On the other hand, others argue that a more detailed goodbye and send-off provides more closure, comfort, and support, allowing those remaining to better process the change and find growth opportunities in it.

No matter the approach taken, however, it’s important to recognize that farewell speeches are important moments for both those who are leaving and those who are staying; they provide an opportunity for reflection on memories shared, lessons learned, and relationships formed—all of which contribute to making an impactful farewell experience.

With this in mind, the next section will discuss what makes an effective farewell speech.

Quick Answer

A farewell speech is an important way to mark one’s departure from an organization, group, or event. It usually includes gratitude and a call to action for those who remain in the group. Farewell speeches often include a reflection on memories shared, lessons learned, and relationships formed. What constitutes an effective farewell speech depends on the situation but it should provide closure and comfort.

What Makes an Effective Farewell Speech?

The delivery and content of a farewell speech can significantly influence the sentiment behind goodbye messages. It’s important for sendoff speakers to emphasize gratitude and to express their appreciation for the time spent with colleagues, friends, or family.

A successful farewell speech should be heartfelt, sincere, and thoughtful. When crafting a farewell speech, speakers may want to consider incorporating elements like humour, humility, and inspiration in order to add depth to their words.

Additionally, touch upon shared emotions to convey the bond between both parties. Focusing on these three elements allows for a memorable sendoff that will stick with the crowd in attendance.

Humour is an effective way of connecting with the audience and lightening the atmosphere; providing some levity amongst more serious anecdotes. Self-deprecating remarks can be a way of connecting with colleagues in a more intimate way; showing you are equally as human as they are.

On the flip side, too much humour can sometimes come across as insincere and hinder the speaker’s attempt at conveying genuine emotion; arguably one of the key components of an effective farewell speech.

Moreover, include inspirational stories which feature distinct examples of gratitude within them—this will create greater authenticity and leave guests feeling impacted by your words.

As aforementioned, it’s vital for goodbyes to incorporate appreciation for time spent together—evoke specific memories and draw attention to individuals when necessary rather than speaking in generalities.

Ensure that your words make an impact on those who need to hear them. With these in mind, it’s possible to craft a successful transition from one stage of life to another through an effective farewell speech that is full of grace and gratitude.

Having addressed what makes an effective farewell speech, we’ll next discuss how best to show appreciation in sending off messages.

Showing Appreciation

Showing appreciation is a key element of any farewell speech. Expressing gratitude for the years spent in each other’s company conveys respect and admiration for all that has been accomplished.

When it comes to including words of acknowledgement and appreciation, many people choose to highlight the special moments shared, celebrate the successes seen, and offer thoughtful acknowledgements or simple thank yous.

However, there are opposing opinions on how to best show appreciation. Some suggest keeping dedications to a minimum so as not bore listeners with too much detail while others believe a more thorough approach can help create lasting memories and nostalgia.

The most important thing is to be mindful of your audience and what feels right based on the relationship that the farewell speech is celebrating.

If appropriate, consider having a moment at the end of your speech where you thank everyone individually while explicitly naming their individual contributions. A more public approach can include a round of applause directed at individuals who have had an impact on you along your journey.

In conclusion, expressing appreciation in a farewell speech provides an opportunity for reflection and celebration of meaningful experiences. Celebrating the occasion marks a special moment in time as one move forward in life or career.

Celebrating the Occasion

When someone is leaving their current role, it is important to take some time to celebrate and recognize their achievements. Celebrating the occasion acknowledges their contribution, gives thanks for their hard work, and shows gratitude for their time.

It can be a meaningful gesture that highlights the value of the departing employee or colleague, and can also be an inspiring opportunity for those who remain in the position.

In planning a celebration for the person’s departure, consider what would best suit their personality and interests. A simple going-away party, a framed thank-you card, or another creative form of recognition might be just the right way to say goodbye.

However, it is also important to consider how this celebration could affect morale and productivity within the team. If there is already tension in the workplace due to changes in leadership or a reorganization of roles, then holding a celebratory event could serve to further emphasize inequalities among employees or even create an uncomfortable environment.

When deciding how best to celebrate someone’s departure, it is important to assess both potential positive and negative implications of any action and plan accordingly. Doing so ensures that both the departing employee or colleague is properly recognized as well as all other members of the team feel respected and appreciated for their own contributions.

By acknowledging this balance appropriately, it will help ensure that everyone feels included and appreciated when saying goodbye. From here we can move on to discuss how to use a farewell speech to inspire your audience.

Inspiring Your Audience

In order to move an audience and leave a lasting impression, it is important to ensure that your farewell speech is both inspirational and meaningful. To do this, consider talking about how much the experience meant to you, how much you have enjoyed and learned from your friends and colleagues, or highlighting the greatest accomplishments of the group.

Additionally, use personal anecdotes that reflect the experiences of everyone in the audience. This will not only inspire emotions in them but also allow them to connect with each other as they share similar memories.

If applicable, provide words of wisdom to encourage resilience and success in the future. Show gratitude for being part of something special, even if it may be difficult to say goodbye.

By doing so, you can instill hope rather than sadness in the audience with your kind words. By expressing solidarity and understanding, your message can picture a bright future on which everyone can look forward to despite leaving their respective positions.

Ultimately, it’s important to speak positively during a farewell speech so as to leave a good impression in people’s minds when departing. Inspiring your audience will also help them remember you fondly and feel positive about their time spent together.

As such, wrap up your speech with an example or phrase that gets repeated by people long after they heard it or send out a meaningful message that serves as an uplifting reminder for all who were present.

Now that we have discussed how to inspire an audience through a farewell speech it’s time to focus on what such speeches could be like. In the next section, we will cover examples of farewell speeches so you can get some great ideas on what to include in your own address.

Example of a Farewell Speech

When you’re leaving your current position at work, it’s customary to deliver a farewell speech. These speeches provide a meaningful way to say goodbye and reflect on the successes of your time spent in the role.

Here is an example of an effective farewell speech that can be tailored to your experience and the tenor of your workplace:

“Good morning everyone! I want to thank you all for being here today. As many of you know, today is my last day with [Company Name], and I wanted to take a few moments to say a few words about my experience here.

This company has been a great home for me during the last [insert length of time]. During my time here, I learned countless skills , met fantastic people, and made memories to last a lifetime. Working with all of you has been an incredible honor – you have always demonstrated kindness and strong work ethic. I’m sure the business will continue to grow under the capable leadership of [current leader].

I have enjoyed every minute of my time here and I wish this team tremendous success as they move forward. Remember: no matter what happens in life, don’t forget to find joy in what we do. Thank you so much for your support – now let’s celebrate!”

Farewell speeches are a great opportunity for reflection and sentimentality but it’s important to balance it out with humor or positivity depending on the setting.

On one hand, some people might opt for deeper reflections on their journey and how each person has played a part in their development, while others may choose to keep their speeches lighthearted and upbeat.

Regardless of which option works best for your audience, remember that these farewell speeches provide valuable opportunities to build connections before departing from an organization or team.

At the same time, it’s important not to let the farewell speech drag on too long – keep the message brief yet meaningful. This allows present colleagues to receive appreciation without disrupting daily workflow.

Prefer a longer example? Here’s one from George Washington to the people of the USA .

Crafting Your Own Farewell Speech follows similar guidelines – find the right mix between reflection and positivity in order to create an effective speech that resonates with its audience.

Crafting Your Own Farewell Speech

Crafting your own farewell speech is a task that should not be taken lightly. It requires thought and honest reflection to craft a meaningful and memorable goodbye speech.

Your words should pay tribute to the experience you have had while connecting emotionally with your audience. Crafting your own farewell speech gives you the opportunity to directly address how hard it was to leave and acknowledge the contributions made both by yourself and others in the organization.

When deciding on how to create a memorable farewell speech, there are two paths one can take. On one hand, those looking for guidance might want to find existing templates filled with the right sentiments that they can customize to fit their needs.

Alternatively, those who prefer writing from scratch can develop their own narrative thread, drawing on their own words of wisdom and emotions as they feel them in the moment.

When constructing a self-made speech, it’s important to remember brevity is key. Each word should have intent and purpose; it’s better to be thoughtful than wordy.

Bear in mind that this moment presents an opportunity for closure and for celebration for accomplishments along the journey you embarked upon together.

It’s also worth mentioning any lessons learned or valuable experiences gained during this transition. As daunting as this may sound, it can be immensely rewarding when done well.

Having taken into account both sides of creating a farewell speech, next is brainstorming potential topics that can serve as inspiration for crafting an effective goodbye message.

Brainstorm Topics

Brainstorming topics for a farewell speech allows you to come up with an effective way to express your gratitude and appreciation when saying goodbye. This is important because it helps you maintain dignity, respectfulness and meaningfulness in the words you choose to say.

Before delivering a heartfelt farewell, it’s important to consider what areas are worth mentioning.

You should focus on three main topics when creating a farewell speech: the past, the present, and the future.

When reflecting on “the past ,” you should focus on acknowledging your successes and accomplishments while working there. This helps to reinforce that your contributions did not go unnoticed and were appreciated by those around you.

It helps to inspire and motivate others with the knowledge of your success in the workplace. Consider thanking coworkers for helping you achieve your goals over time; collaborative efforts often go underappreciated and focusing on why their help was beneficial can be a pleasant surprise.

Another important topic to consider is “the present ”; this is where you can express your gratitude and thank everyone who has helped you through this long journey of leaving the company.

Provide sincere thanks to coworkers and colleagues who have been key in making it possible for you to depart gracefully.

Consider being transparent about what you have learned during your years in the organization and how these learnings will propel you forward into new opportunities or ventures.

Finally, mention how much the people in the organization mean to you, as well as how much they will be missed—this will help solidify that relationships were built during your stay at the company and that they won’t easily be forgotten or taken for granted.

Lastly, “the future ” focuses on optimism, hope, and reaffirms resilience—even in times of change. Here, emphasize any newfound strength that was built during this experience, as well as talk about future aspirations or goals with optimism.

Lastly, send off a few encouraging words for those left behind reminding them that great things can still occur despite difficulty or instability occurring at work due to your departure from the team.

With these three topics outlined it’s now time to choose your words carefully with precision so that the final speech resonates all of these concepts entirely; leading into a memorable goodbye for those who will hear it spoken aloud.

Choose Your Words Carefully

When crafting your farewell speech, it is important to choose your words carefully. Each word should invoke not only emotion, but also provide a level of understanding for the audience. It is essential that you communicate your message perfectly and with clarity.

To begin, strive to craft an introduction with strong language that grabs the attention of your listeners. This could range from using metaphors or analogies to compare yourself to a superhero or time traveler depending on the audience’s sense of humor and interests.

Anticipate potential questions from the audience and provide thoughtful answers in advance.

Be sure to include gratitude during your speech even if it’s uncomfortable. Doing so will make you look professional and acknowledge how much you appreciate any help given to you over the years. Showing appreciation will surely leave a lasting impression.

Try to close strong, offering perspectives to the colleagues who remain and looking ahead to new possibilities instead of focusing on sadness or regret. Reassure them that they too can pursue their dreams and opportunities just as you have, conveying optimism in the process.

Furthermore, reflect on your newfound clarity while providing an outlook full of positivity; emphasizing the benefits you may reap going forward regardless of any hardships faced along the way.

Choose your words carefully when preparing for a farewell speech; it will be key in making sure this moment shines.

Consider tips such as designing an introductio n full of strong language, expressing gratitude, and providing an optimistic outlook for those remaining when constructing your own dream goodbye speech.

As a final step before delivering it, practice speaking with emotion and deliver the speech body language that conveys both warmth and sincerity. With these strategies, you can say goodbye with grace and gratitude.

This next section looks at how best to deliver a farewell speech with emotion; from preparing beforehand to finding ways to connect with the audience on an emotional level while delivering it.

Deliver the Speech With Emotion

Delivering a farewell speech with emotion can make or break the impact of the speech. On one hand, some might say that showing too much emotion is not professional and may take away from the gravity of the situation.

For example, if someone gets overly emotional in a workplace setting, it could create an uncomfortable atmosphere. The speaker would need to maintain a certain level of composure to keep the focus of the audience and to remain professional.

On the other hand, delivering a farewell speech without emotion does not give justice to the heartfelt emotions connected to this particular occasion. Heartfelt tales of memories and personal experiences paired with earnest gratitude and respect should be expressed with intensity and feeling.

Audiences tend to connect more deeply with speeches that are delivered with genuine emotion rather than one filled with boring facts and statistics.

It is important to find balance in your delivery style between staying professional while also expressing your feelings fully in order to truly convey the gravity of the occasion.

A blend of stoic delivery and heartfelt emotions will ensure that everyone in attendance can both respect your professionalism while connecting on an emotional level with you as well.

As we have seen, it is important to strike a balance between staying professional while delivering a farewell speech with emotion – finding this balance will help ensure that everyone in attendance appreciates your sincere sentiments and respects your level of composure at the same time.

In the following section, we will discuss how to bid adieu in an effective conclusion to your farewell speech.

Conclusion: Saying Goodbye

Saying goodbye can be one of the most emotionally fraught experiences in a person’s life. It is a moment when all of the hard work, dedication, and fond memories come flooding back in a flood of mixed emotions.

Farewell speech examples can provide structure and guidance for those who are preparing their own speeches. There are many different types of farewell speeches, from those that are funny and lighthearted to those that are more reflective and sombre.

No matter which type of speech you decide to write or deliver, always remember to express your utmost gratitude towards the people who have helped you during your time with them. Aim to make your speech memorable by ending it on an emotional high note. Above all else, strive to keep it sincere and meaningful.

It is often said that endings can be bittersweet, however, with proper planning and preparation through reviewal of some farewell speech examples, your own farewell speech can be both graceful and positive.

When the words come from the heart they will often linger with your friends or colleagues long after they are gone. With this in mind, remember to make goodbyes count – not only for yourself but for the people around you as well.

Answers to Common Questions with Detailed Explanations

How should i structure my farewell speech.

Structuring your Farewell Speech is important as it can help to make sure that your thoughts and sentiments are expressed in an organized manner. There are several steps that you can take to ensure that your speech is well-structured: 1. Acknowledge the occasion and thank people for being there – After beginning with a warm welcome, state the reason for gathering and express gratitude to everyone present for attending the function. 2. Take time to share memories – Many farewell speeches are full of nostalgia so use this time to reminisce about moments from the past, stories from shared experiences, fond memories of work or successes achieved together. 3. Show Gratitude – Take some time to express appreciation for colleagues and associates for their support, friendship, and guidance throughout your tenure. Express any sorrow you may have in leaving. 4. Thank & Recognize those who Inspire You – Use this opportunity to thank anyone who has deeply inspired you or been influential in facilitating your success thus far. 5. Conclude with Encouraging Words – Retrospect on what was accomplished and speak positively about what lies ahead both for yourself and other colleagues.

What are some of the key elements of a successful farewell speech?

The key elements of a successful farewell speech are to leave your audience with appreciation and gratitude, reflect on your best memories, thank those who have impacted your journey, highlight accomplishments and share a few wise words or memorable quotes .

Start by thanking everyone in the room for attending and taking the time to celebrate with you. Make sure to express your appreciation and gratitude for the unique experience that this role brought you.

Reflect on some of the best moments you experienced while fulfilling this role, focusing on what you learned and how these experiences shaped and motivated you.

Next, thank those who influenced your journey, like mentors, colleagues and friends. Acknowledge their support and ask them to continue providing advice when needed.

Highlight your successes, as they demonstrate how much work was put into achieving these goals , which should be cause for celebration!

Lastly, offer a few nuggets of wisdom or quotes that resonated with you from this experience – not only will it make people think, but it can also leave a lasting impression.

By following these tips and sharing heartfelt words of appreciation and wisdom, you can create a memorable farewell speech that celebrates your accomplishments while looking towards the future.

What are some tips for delivering a memorable farewell speech?

Delivering a memorable farewell speech is no easy feat, but it can be done with a little practice , creativity, and confidence. Here are a few tips to help you make your speech stand out:

1. Know your audience – Keep in mind who will be listening to your speech and tailor it accordingly. Are they colleagues? Friends? Family? Making sure that your speech resonates with the people you’re addressing is key for delivering a compelling message.

2. Be personable – Letting some of your personality shine through in your speech is key for making it memorable. Personal anecdotes, humor, and quotes are all great ways to do this.

3. Focus on the present – Make sure that you address the present feelings of those in attendance instead of solely dwelling on the past or future. Remind everyone why their current relationship has been special and unique and emphasize what brought everyone together in the first place.

4. Avoid cliché phrases – Goodbye speeches often contain phrases like “it’s been a pleasure” or “I wish you all the best” but these can come across as insincere if overused. Instead, try to come up with thoughtful compliments or memorable expressions that reflect the spirit of your goodbye.

5. Leave on a high note – A memorable goodbye speech should end with a moment of gratitude and optimism; this will stay in everyone’s minds as you leave them for good. Express how glad you have been to work or connect with these specific people and express hope for successful futures for them all (including yourself).

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Giving A Farewell Speech At Work (With Examples)

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Summary. Your farewell speech at work is an opportunity to bring your time with the company to a close in a friendly way. In your speech should express your gratitude for your company and colleagues and let people know where you are going. Your speech should be personal and it’s a good idea to use anecdotes from your time in the office.

No one can stay at a job forever, and there comes a time in everyone’s career when you have to say goodbye to a group of coworkers.

Whether you got promoted and relocated, you’re retiring, or you were given a better offer by another company, it’s nice to give all of your coworkers a proper goodbye, and one of the best ways to do this is in a farewell speech.

No matter when or why you need to give a farewell speech, we’ll help you prep one that’s memorable and moving in no time. Keep reading to learn what a farewell speech is, how to create a good one, and a few examples you can model yours after.

Key Takeaways:

Keep your speech positive and use a relaxed tone while giving it.

Create an outline when writing your speech to get an idea of what you want to say before you start writing.

Thank your coworkers for their support and for creating a fun work environment.

What Is a Farewell Speech?

How to write a job farewell speech, examples of farewell speeches, tips for delivering a good farewell speech, writing a farewell speech for a colleague, farewell speech faqs.

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Farewell speeches are an opportunity to bring your time with a company to a close in a polite and friendly way. Typically, they’re short speeches you can make on your last day or if your coworkers throw you a going-away party. They don’t need to be long monologues; you just need to express your gratitude for your time with the company and let people know where you’re heading.

Keep in mind that farewell speeches don’t have to happen every time someone leaves a job or switches offices. Farewell speeches are usually reserved for people who have had a significant impact on a company, worked somewhere for a long time, or are retiring . Not everyone has to give a special speech, so if you feel like you haven’t been at a company long enough or don’t have a high enough position to make a speech, you definitely don’t need to.

Farewell speeches are pretty low pressure, and you can just speak from the heart, so they’re not the trickiest professional speech you’ll ever have to give. But, it still doesn’t hurt to be prepared and have an idea of what you want to say before your opportunity arises. Here are the steps you should take when you want to prepare your farewell speech ahead of time:

Start with an outline. Even though goodbye speeches are just a few minutes long, it doesn’t hurt to have a general idea of what you want to say before you start forming your thoughts.

Beef up your ideas. After you have an outline, you can start filling it in with anything you want to share. Be sure to make everything flow, which the outline can help with since you already know what you want your next point to be.

Let people know where you’re going. Before you wrap up your speech, make sure you take a moment to tell your coworkers what your next step is . Whether you’re retiring, moving to a new company, or having a career change, people want to know what you’re up to and how they can stay in touch with you.

Create a strong conclusion. When you’re writing the end of your speech, make sure it follows the tone you’ve created throughout the rest of the speech. If you went for a more serious tone, you should make sure you keep the ending serious, and the same goes for if you went for a humorous tone.

Edit your speech. Before you read your speech for your coworkers, you should read it aloud for yourself to make sure everything feels right. You can even have a friend read it over for you, but just make sure you give it a read over before giving your speech.

Here are a few examples of farewell speeches you can give to your coworkers before you leave your job. We’ll give you some samples of different reasons you might be departing a company.

If You’re Retiring

Hi everyone. Thanks so much for taking time out of your day to celebrate my last day with ABC Company. After 20 years here, I can’t believe I won’t be seeing that hideous fake plant and all of your lovely faces every morning. I’m immensely grateful to everyone in this room, especially my HR team. We’ve done some amazing work during my time here, from implementing our database years ago to supporting our colleagues throughout some rocky patches at ABC. I’ll miss everyone on the HR team, especially our weekly Friday gossip lunches. I also want to give a huge thanks to Linda, our head of HR. Linda’s been with me almost since my start, and I wouldn’t have gotten to where I am today without her kindness and support. Thanks for everything, Linda. I’m sad to say goodbye to all of you, but I’ll be stopping in from time to time. It’s been an incredible journey with you all, but now it’s time for me to kick back and finally watch that new show you’ve all been telling me about! Thanks again, everyone!

If You’re Leaving For Another Company

Thank you all for coming. I really appreciate you taking some time out of your days to send me off like this. I’ve loved my time here because of all the wonderful people I’ve met, so you’re making it really hard for me to leave. I just want to say a little thank you to my team, who has been by my side since I started at Smith Consulting. Without the leadership and mentorship of Brenda, I don’t know how I would’ve ever moved up to Senior Consultant . Of course, I have to thank my fellow team members Oliver, Sarah, and John, for keeping me motivated and laughing during our late-night brainstorms, countless airport trips, and meetings with tough clients. I also want to give a quick shoutout to Jamie, who will be taking over for me. Jamie is amazing, and I’ve really enjoyed working with her and watching her grow over the last month. I know she’ll do a great job and be a real asset to the team after I’m gone. I’ve enjoyed every second I’ve been with Smith Consulting, and I’m sad to leave. I’ll be moving to Chicago with my husband to be closer to our families, but I sincerely hope everyone will stay in touch. Hopefully, I’ll make it back out here soon, and we’ll have a chance to work together again. Thank you again to everyone, and I’ll miss all of you!

No matter how formal or informal your farewell speech is, you can follow these tips to make sure you deliver one that’s memorable:

Practice before the big day. Just like anything else, practicing your speech a few times before you give it is a good way to make sure it flows. It can also help you make sure you sound natural and relaxed when you give your speech.

Greet your listeners. To make your speech more lighthearted, you should acknowledge your audience before launching into your speech. Take a second to greet everyone and incorporate them into your speech.

Make it personal. At the end of the day, the speech is about you and your colleagues, so don’t be afraid to make it personal. Your audience will find it more entertaining if you make your speech specific and personal than if you just keep things generic and vague.

Stay positive. While you might be departing with your company for negative reasons, don’t bring anything up in your farewell speech.

Use anecdotes. One way to make your speech memorable and engaging is to use stories from your time in the office. Think of running jokes you have with your coworkers or talk about the great prank you pulled on your boss one year.

Thank your coworkers. While this is a speech about your time at the company, you should take time to thank your coworkers for their support and creating a fun work environment .

Keep it natural. There’s no need to force yourself to do a formal farewell speech if that’s not your personality. Do something that feels natural to you and represents who you are in relation to your audience. You can keep it light and humorous if that fits you, or go for something more serious; just keep it natural.

Use a relaxed tone. Since farewell speeches aren’t overly formal, you want to make sure you’re using a relaxed tone when you address your audience.

Be brief. Your colleagues want to hear from you, but they don’t want a ten-minute walk down memory lane, especially when they’re waiting to eat or need to get to a meeting.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to give a farewell speech for a colleague that is leaving. In this case, you’ll follow many of the same principles that we listed for a farewell speech that you’d give when you’re the one leaving.

Instead of talking about your time with the group as a whole, however, you’ll talk about the individual who is leaving.

Share some of their positive qualities and accomplishments, a few memories or uplifting experiences you had with the person, and how the person has impacted your career or the workplace as a whole.

Close by thanking them for their hard work and wishing them well as they move on to other endeavors.

How do I give a farewell speech for leaving a company?

You give a farewell speech for leaving a company by briefly mentioning a few positive memories of your time working there, expressing your sadness at your departure, and thanking your coworkers.

This speech should be more about your colleagues than about you, so make sure you keep your speech to the point and focused on topics everyone can appreciate.

General memories that most people have in common or your gratitude toward different people or groups in the organization are both great points to include in your speech.

How should I start my farewell speech?

You should start your farewell speech by thanking everyone for being there. Chances are you’re giving your speech at an event of some kind, and even if it’s just a gathering in the conference room to eat cake, you need to thank everyone for taking the time to attend.

From there, you can move into sharing what you’ve appreciated or positive things you’ve learned from your time at the company, thanking your coworkers, and sharing where you’re going next.

What are some good farewell sayings?

Some good farewell sayings are, “It’s been an incredible journey,” “I hope you will keep in touch,” and “I wish you the best.” These sayings all express your appreciation for your coworkers and your desire to continue those relationships.

It’s important to include phrases like these in your speech to show that while you may be excited about what you’re moving to next, you are still sad to be leaving this job and community behind.

How do I say goodbye to my colleagues?

Same ways to say goodbye include:

“I’m going to miss you. Wishing you luck in your new role and your future. We’ll talk soon.”

“It was a blast working with you. We will miss having you around. Goodbye, dear friend.”

“leaving this place and everyone will be difficult, thank you, everybody. Goodbye.”

“Although I am thrilled about my new position, I’m sad to leave the company. Everyone, goodbye.”

Best Speech Topics – Farewell Speech

Throughline – How To Give A Memorable Farewell Speech

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Amanda is a writer with experience in various industries, including travel, real estate, and career advice. After taking on internships and entry-level jobs, she is familiar with the job search process and landing that crucial first job. Included in her experience is work at an employer/intern matching startup where she marketed an intern database to employers and supported college interns looking for work experience.

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How to Write a Farewell Speech – Tips & Samples

Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

A farewell speech is one of the best ways to send off a departing co-worker, friend, or family member. It allows you to express gratitude for their contributions and wish them well in their new endeavors.

Additionally, a farewell speech can be a great opportunity to reflect on shared memories and offer wisdom for the future. Let’s see what the best farewell speech looks like based on different situations. I’ll explain everything plus include sample farewell speeches. 

Farewell or Goodbye Speeches

As you move on to the next phase in your life, it is important to take a second to reflect on special memories and all you’ve accomplished. A farewell speech is a perfect opportunity to do just that.

Whether you are retiring, resigning, or moving to a new company, a farewell speech is a chance to look back on your time at your current job and express your gratitude for the experiences you have had. It is also an opportunity to say goodbye to your colleagues and wish them all the best in their future.

What Is a Farewell Speech?

A farewell speech is a type of speech that is typically given at the end of a person’s tenure in a particular role. It’s often a professional goodbye but with a relaxed tone given at a farewell party or event.

For example, a student might give a farewell speech upon graduating from college, or an employee might give a farewell speech upon retiring from a company. Sometimes, a person might also give a farewell speech when leaving a particular organization or position, even if they aren’t retiring.

A prepared farewell speech usually contains personal memories, thank yous, feelings about the people involved, and a simple goodbye in person.

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Farewell speeches are typically intended to be positive and uplifting and to thank those who have helped the speaker during their time in the role. They may also include words of wisdom or advice for those who remain.

What Should I Say in a Farewell Speech?

When leaving an organization or group, it is customary to give a farewell speech. This speech is a chance to thank the people who have helped you during your time with the organization and to wish them well in the future.

You may also want to share some advice or words of wisdom with the group. When preparing your speech, consider what you would like to say and what message you would like to leave with the group.

It’s also important to be mindful of the tone of your speech. A farewell speech should be positive and uplifting, so avoid dwelling on negative experiences or speaking ill of the organization or group.

Take the time to write your thoughts and practice delivering your speech before the big day. With a little preparation, you can deliver a farewell speech that is both memorable and meaningful.

How Do I Start a Farewell Speech?

When giving a farewell speech, it is common to start by thanking the audience for attending. This helps to set a polite and appreciative tone for the rest of the speech.

It is also common to give a brief overview of the event or occasion that is being farewelled. For example, you might talk about how much fun the party was or how successful the project was.

This helps to create a sense of shared experience and nostalgia. Finally, it is common to finish with a positive message or thought. This could be something as simple as wishing everyone all the best for the future.

By starting with thanking the audience, you can ensure that your farewell speech is polite and engaging.

What Do You Say in a Goodbye Speech for a Colleague?

Finding the right words to say when saying goodbye to a colleague can be difficult. After all, you want to express your appreciation for their contributions while also acknowledging the sadness of their departure. Here are some of my suggestions for what to say in a goodbye speech to a colleague.

What They Contributed

First, take a moment to reflect on the positive impact that your colleague has had on your life and career. What have they taught you? How have they made you a better person? Be sure to express your gratitude for their guidance and mentorship.

Best Wishes

Next, wish them all the best in their future endeavors. Whether they are moving on to another job or retiring, let them know that you believe in their ability to achieve great things.

Finally, offer your support if they ever need anything. Let them know that you’re always there for them, whether it’s a reference for a new job or just someone to talk to.

Saying goodbye to a colleague can be tough, but expressing your appreciation and support can make it a bit easier for both of you.

What Do You Say in a Short Leaving Speech?

It is often said that brevity is the soul of wit. This is certainly true when it comes to giving a leaving speech. Whether you are stepping down from a club presidency or saying farewell to your colleagues at a retirement party,

it is important to keep your remarks brief and to the point. A few key elements should be included in any leaving speech.

First, take a moment to express your gratitude for the opportunity that you have been given. Next, focus on the future and discuss exciting new opportunities. Finally, leave your audience with a positive message, and encourage them to continue working hard in the months and years to come.

How Do You Thank in a Farewell Speech?

One of the most important elements of a farewell speech is thanking the people who have helped you along the way. Whether you are leaving a job, a team, or an institution, it is important to take a moment to express your gratitude.

Thank those who have been directly involved in your journey. This may include mentors, colleagues, or supervisors.

Next, thank the larger community that has supported you. This could include friends, family, or simply those who have taken an interest in your work.

Don’t forget to thank yourself! After all, it is your hard work and dedication that have brought you to this point.

Tips for Delivering a Memorable Farewell Speech at Work

I’ve written a number of speeches in my life, and these are some of my tips on how to do it right.

Draft an Outline

I’m insistent about outlines in every aspect of my life, from the next book I’m writing to an article and, yes, speeches. When preparing to give a farewell speech, one of the most important things you can do is create an outline. This will help you to organize your thoughts and ensure that your speech flows smoothly.

A good outline will also help you to keep your speech within a reasonable length. If you need help figuring out where to start, there are a few key points you should always include in your farewell speech.

First, thank the audience for their time and attention. Next, introduce yourself and explain why you’re giving the speech. Then, give an overview of the main points you’ll be covering. Finally, conclude with a call to action or a personal message.

Include Relevant Details

Giving a farewell speech can be difficult. You want to say goodbye to your friends and colleagues in a memorable and appropriate way. One of the best ways to do this is to include relevant details in your speech.

For example, you might tell a story about a time when you worked together on a project or helped each other out. This will help to personalize your speech and make it more relatable for your audience.

Including specific details also helps to show that you have been paying attention to the people you are saying goodbye to. It shows that you value their friendship and want to remember the good times you have shared.

Expand on Your Ideas With the Right Tone

Any good speech, whether for a graduation, a retirement, or any other occasion, should have a clear, concise, and cohesive message. It should also be engaging, drawing in the audience and leaving them with a lasting impression.

However, choosing the right tone is one of the most important aspects of giving a speech. The tone of your voice can convey confidence, authority, and sincerity, or it can come across as nervous and uncertain.

If you want to give a farewell speech that will be remembered fondly, it is essential to choose the right tone. A confident and sincere tone will let your audience know that you are sincere in your words and that you believe in what you are saying.

Conversely, a nervous or uncertain tone will make your audience question your message and may leave them feeling uninspired.

Add Humor When Appropriate

As anyone who has ever given a speech knows, it is often difficult to find the right words to say. This is especially true when giving a farewell speech, as you want to strike the right balance between appreciation and levity.

One way to do this is by adding humor when appropriate. A well-placed joke can help to lighten the mood and show your audience that you are comfortable with the situation.

Also, humor can help break the ice, especially if you speak to a group of people who do not know each other well.

Just be sure to keep your jokes tasteful and appropriate for the occasion. With a little humor, you can give a farewell speech that will be remembered for all the right reasons.

Edit Your Speech

When giving a farewell speech, it is important to ensure that your words are well-chosen and carefully edited. This is not a time for spontaneous ramblings or off-the-cuff remarks.

Your farewell speech should be memorable, which means taking the time to edit your words to be powerful and impactful.

There are a few benefits to editing your speech. First, it will help you to choose the right words. You want your words to be meaningful and to capture the essence of what you are trying to say.

Second, editing will help you clarify your thoughts and communicate your message. And finally, editing will help ensure that your speech is free of any grammatical errors.

Ask for a Trusted Colleague’s Opinion

For several reasons, asking for a trusted colleague’s opinion before giving a farewell speech to colleagues can be beneficial. First, it can help to ensure that the speech is memorable and appropriate for the occasion.

It ensures that the speech is well-received by the audience. You can test to see if you’re comfortable with your speech and check that the speech is tailored to the individual’s needs.

Finally, it can help to ensure that the speaker has the opportunity to practice before delivering the speech. Overall, asking for a trusted colleague’s opinion can be a helpful way to prepare for a professional speech of farewell.

Farewell Speech Examples

Use these prompts to create original speeches for your farewell or goodbye. They can be tweaked for funeral speeches, formal farewell speeches, or any other personalized speeches you need.

Example of Farewell Resignation Speech

“Thank you all for being here today. I’m honored to be given the opportunity to say a few words on behalf of everyone.

First, I want to say how much I’ve enjoyed working with everyone over the past year. It’s been a pleasure getting to know you all, and I truly appreciate your support.

As many of you know, I’ve been offered an exciting new opportunity that I’ll be starting next month. While I’m excited about this new chapter in my life, I’m also sad to leave such a great team behind. I assure you that I’ll be available to help with the transition in any way possible.

And, of course, I’ll stay in touch. Thank you all again for everything. I wish you all the best in the future.”

Example of Farewell Speech at Graduation

“As we stand on the threshold of a new phase in our lives, it is natural to feel both excited and apprehensive about what lies ahead. But no matter what the future holds, we will always remember our time together. This school has been our second home, and we will always treasure the fond memories we have made.

As we go our separate ways, let us never forget the lessons we have learned. Let us use them to make the world a better place for all. And let us stay in touch, so we can continue supporting and encouraging each other as we pursue our dreams.

Thank you all for everything. Good luck and best wishes for your future endeavors!”

Example of Farewell Retirement Speeches

“It is with mixed emotions that I stand before you today to deliver my farewell speech. On the one hand, I am sad to be leaving a job I have loved for many years. But on the other hand, I am excited to begin this next chapter in my life.

Retirement allows me to finally pursue some of my long-held dreams and goals. And although I will miss everyone here at the office, I take comfort in knowing we will all remain in touch. I want to thank each and every one of you for your support over the years. It has been truly appreciated.

And although I am looking forward to this next phase of my life, I will always cherish the memories we shared. Thank you.”

Example of Farewell Speech for Colleague Retirement

“On behalf of everyone here at ABC Company, I would like to say a few words to celebrate John Doe’s retirement.

John has been with us for over thirty years, and in that time, he has made an indelible mark on our organization. He has been a mentor to many of us, and his expert advice will be sorely missed.

We are all better for having known John, and we wish him all the best in his retirement. Thank you, John, for everything.”

The Bottom Line

A farewell speech is an important opportunity to express gratitude, offer words of wisdom and a note of memories, and say goodbye to those who have been important in your life. They can hold a humorous tone or lean more towards a simple and respectful tone. 

Farewell speeches can also be a chance to say goodbye to a person or group you may never see again. As such, they offer an opportunity to express sentiments that might otherwise go unsaid.

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• Condolences & What To Say

How to Write an Inspiring Farewell Speech: Step-By-Step

Updated 06/7/2022

Published 05/14/2020

Kate Wight, BA in English

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

There are many times in our lives when we have to say goodbye to the people we care about. We may retire or switch jobs. We may move away or graduate. We may even die. If you’re leaving a place or situation, you may be asked to give a farewell speech.

Jump ahead to these sections:

Step 1: determine your audience, step 2: figure out what you want to say, step 3: make an outline, step 4: be personal, step 5: don’t speak for too long, step 6: practice makes perfect, sample farewell speeches.

This can be nerve-wracking for people who aren’t experienced in writing speeches or speaking in public. You may be tempted to just read a farewell poem and call it a day. But even a novice writer can craft an inspiring farewell speech.

Here, we’ll break down how to write one step-by-step and also provide examples of farewell speeches from several different occasions.  

Knowing who you’re speaking to will determine the tone of your speech. If you’re giving a retirement speech or saying goodbye to a co-worker, you’ll want to be slightly more formal. It’s definitely not the right place to engage in risqué humor.

If you’re a valedictorian speaking to your classmates, strive for an uplifting and inspirational tone. If you’re eulogizing yourself at a living funeral, you can be more irreverent than you might be eulogizing someone else. Give thought to the appropriate tone for the occasion and go on from there. 

Even professional writers and public speakers can’t just whip up a speech in one draft. Before you start writing, take some time to jot down some ideas.

Are there particular stories you want to share about your time with the people you’re speaking to? Make a note of them. Are there specific anecdotes about coworkers or friends you want to revisit? Write those down, too. Once you’ve narrowed down what you want to say, you’ll find it a lot easier to begin writing.

Once you’ve figured out what you want to say, it’s time to write up an outline. A speech should include the following components:

• Introduction: This will set the tone for the rest of your speech. A good introduction will grab people’s attention and keep it on you. A good introduction will include a greeting to the audience. It may also contain an icebreaker like a joke to loosen up the crowd. Finally, it will let people know the purpose of the speech.
• Body: This is the meat of your speech. In the body, you can delve into the stories and anecdotes you wrote down in your brainstorming session. You will likely be talking about a few different events, so make sure to include transitions between events.
• Conclusion: Finally, you’ll need to wrap up your speech. Most conclusions will summarize things you’ve already covered. For a farewell speech, you may want to end on a poignant note, even if the rest of your speech has been fairly lighthearted. This lends it emotional resonance. 

You may want to make your speech feel perfect and polished. The problem with that is that a perfectly polished speech can end up feeling a little generic.

It’s important to infuse your speech with personal and specific stories. This will help your audience feel more connected to what you’re saying. 

Once you’ve completed your speech, it’s time to edit it down. People may start to tune you out if you go on for too long. Even if your introduction is attention-grabbing, it won’t keep people engaged indefinitely. Five minutes is an appropriate length for more casual speeches. For a more formal farewell speech, you could speak for up to ten minutes. This might apply to a valedictorian speech at graduation or a retirement dinner for an important company figure. 

Ultimately, you need to use your best judgment. Read your speech out loud, being sure to speak slowly and clearly enough to be understood. Factor in pauses for laughter during humorous moments. If your speech is too long, then go through and trim out any unnecessary parts. This will ensure your speech is as strong and memorable as possible.

You may think that once your speech is written, you’re all done. But there’s still one more important step. You need to be comfortable delivering your speech. This means practicing it as many times as it takes.

A lot of people will rush through speeches if they feel nervous or uncomfortable in front of a crowd. Practicing it at the correct speed will help ensure you don’t speak too fast on the actual day of a farewell event. It’s almost like muscle memory. As you practice, you can even note spots where you need to breathe or take a sip of water. Being prepared for little things like that can make you feel more confident.

Practicing can also help you memorize your speech. However, this doesn’t mean that you need to go up without cards or notes. Even the most well-prepared person can have a forgetful moment. Without notes, you may panic and go completely blank.

Keep your speech in front of you so you’re able to quickly pick up where you left off. Just don’t rely on your notes too heavily, either. You want to connect with the audience by making eye contact. Practicing and preparing can help you strike the right balance.  

Now that we’ve broken down the steps that go into writing a farewell speech, we’ll share some examples. You can see how to say goodbye to coworkers through a touching retirement speech. You can see how people say goodbye when graduating or moving away.

You can even see how someone eulogizes themselves at a living funeral . Read on for excerpts from all of these kinds of farewell speeches:

Example for saying goodbye at work or retirement

“Over the past twenty years, I’ve seen this company grow from five people to over five hundred. But even though the office has changed significantly over the years, some things remain the same. We are truly like a family here. We’re just a much larger family than we used to be. 

But just because I’m retiring, it doesn’t mean I don’t still care about every one of you. A family doesn’t stop being a family just because someone moves away. Anytime you need to talk, I’m just a phone call away.” 

Example for saying farewell at the end of someone’s life

“I’ve attended an unfortunately large number of funerals in the past several years. This is the first time I’ve ever attended my own, though. 

I decided to have a living funeral after burying so many of my other friends who also had terminal illnesses. I thought it was a real shame that they didn’t get to hear their friends and family members celebrate them. Perhaps selfishly, I want to hear all of you talk about how awesome I am.

But more than that, I wanted to take this opportunity to celebrate you, too. If you’re here, it’s because I can never fully express how much your support has meant to me while I’ve battled this illness. You’ve all helped me in so many ways. You’ve driven me to treatments. You’ve organized meal trains to feed my family. You’ve cleaned my house. You’ve taken care of my kids. You’ve told me jokes and let me vent. You’ve laughed with me and cried with me. You’ve been there for me in so many ways.

As you all know, we’ve hit a point where treatment isn’t doing anything to help anymore. I’ve gone ahead and discontinued it because it’s making me feel terrible and not actually doing anything. I’d rather go out peacefully and say goodbye on my own terms. And what better way to do that than throw myself a funeral party? So everyone please enjoy some food and music. And don’t forget to come over and tell me how great I am, because I do want to hear it.” 

Example for students or teachers

“Over the past four years, our class has been through a lot together. We’ve had ups and downs, but no matter what, we’ve always come through it closer than ever. Maybe it’s because we’re such a small school. While we might not all be the closest of friends, we don’t have the same cliques you might find at other schools. That might also be because many of us have been in school together since kindergarten. In a lot of ways, we’ve always been like a team. 

Now that we’re all going off to college, many of us will be on our own for the first time. It’s bound to be an enormous challenge for some. But I have faith in every single one of us. We’re graduating from a highly-competitive college prep school. Everything we’ve been through has prepared us for this.

We may be small fish going into a big pond. But we’re some of the smartest and toughest small fish you’re going to find. And ultimately, even if we end up scattered across the country, I know I’ll always be able to count on you. And I hope you know you can always reach out to me, too.”

Example for someone who’s moving away

“Moving away from friends isn’t exactly new for me. With a wife in the military, I end up having to pack up every few years to move. I know you all know what that experience is like. But this is definitely the hardest time I’ve ever had packing up to go.

Y ou don’t always encounter a lot of other civilian husbands living on base. It’s been incredible having a built-in support system with other dads and husbands who understand what this life is like. I’m really going to miss having our families all get together for cookouts on the weekends.”  

Writing an Inspiring and Memorable Farewell Speech: Tips, Tricks, and Examples 

When you’re leaving people behind, it’s hard to know how to say goodbye . You may worry that you won’t be able to properly express what the people in your life have meant to you.

Just follow the steps above and remember to speak from your heart. At the end of the day, that’s what will have the most impact.  

And if you're interested in unique ways to continue someone's legacy after their passing, you can consider a custom urn from a store like Foreverence  or even have a memorial diamond made from ashes with a company like  Eterneva .

Categories:

• Legacy Projects

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Write a farewell speech for a colleague

How to easily prepare a great goodbye speech for a co-worker in 7 steps

By:  Susan Dugdale  

Writing a great farewell speech for a colleague leaving can seem like a really difficult task.

Just what do you say in goodbye speech for a co-worker?

How do you find the right words?  And where do you start?

To make it easier, follow and complete each of the steps below.  

The end result will be a farewell speech for your colleague you'll be proud to give. And even better still, it'll be a speech they'll be delighted to receive! ☺    

What's on this page

A start to finish 7 step process for writing a goodbye speech for a co-worker, with printable brainstorm and outline documents to use, and a sample speech.

• Step One : Brainstorming - collecting your material [with a printable brainstorm template to use]
• Step Two :  Reviewing your material
• Step Three : Organizing the body of your speech [with a printable speech outline template ]
• Step Four : Brainstorming the conclusion [ with a printable brainstorm template ]
• Step Five : Brainstorming the introduction   [with a printable brainstorm template ]
• Step Six : Linking the pieces together (with a sample speech: text and audio)
• Step Seven : Testing and rehearsing

Step One: Brainstorming - collecting material 

The first step is to gather your material for the body, or main part, of your farewell speech. The easiest way I know to do this is to brainstorm.

How to brainstorm to get ideas

Either download and print off a A4 sized blank brainstorm template to use, the one in the image below, or grab a blank sheet of paper of your own.

Use the four headings below as triggers or prompts to get your ideas flowing.

Put down everything you think of, or associate with your colleague, under each of them. (Just like I've done in the example image above.) Do not stop to get the spelling right. Do not stop to edit. You can do all of that later.

What’s important now is to get down as many content ideas as possible. (If you don’t know something you think is vital to include, make a note to find out later.)

When you can’t think of anything more, move on to the next prompt.

1. Basic Facts – History with Company 

(You need to get these accurate. If you don’t know, or are unsure about anything, ask.)

• How long has your colleague been employed by the company?
• What positions or areas have they worked in over that time?
• What are they leaving to do? Take a new job in another company? Travel? Retire? Go on parental leave? Have they been promoted or transferred to another section or branch of the company? Or is what they’re going to be doing in the future private and they would prefer it not mentioned? Like, for instance, they're going to be dealing with a major health issue and don't want everybody to know about it.

2. Positive qualities or characteristics

What positive qualities or characteristics automatically spring to mind when you think of your colleague?

Note them down, with examples.

For example:

• Fun loving: organized ‘crazy hat’ and t-shirt Fridays.
• Genuinely caring and considerate: made a point of always acknowledging what had been done by someone to get a job done, was careful to NOT overload already stretched workers, watched for signs of stress.
• Honest and respectful: direct and sincere in dealings with others, acknowledged their own part and what had been done by others in the success or otherwise of projects.
• Collaborative: didn’t need to be a solo hero – could easily involve others and share the spotlight – a team player.
• Responsible: took ownership of tasks assigned to them, made sure they delivered the very best they could.

3. Work stories: serious and amusing 

Over the time you’ve been working together what stories can you share that best illustrate your colleague’s positive qualities? Are there major projects or milestone developments that could or should be mentioned? What have you jointly achieved? Highlight your shared successes!

For example: 

• the development of the hugely successful mentoring and ongoing training scheme to nurture junior product developers
• the push to diversify and develop high value niche products

What about genuinely amusing, or funny, stories you know your colleague will be OK about sharing publicly?

• the time they thought it was ‘crazy hat’ Friday and arrived at the office in time to meet the trade delegation from China in the foyer wearing an oversize pink furry top hat decorated with bright yellow daffodils bouncing and nodding at the ends of long green springs.

4. Special skills and their impact

What special skills does your colleague have that you admire or are inspired by? Perhaps they have great communication skills. Or maybe they’re a whizz at collecting, organizing and analyzing information for reports.

What impact did those skills have on you? On the business?

• the ability to pull together useful, easily understood, yet complex, spread sheets quickly

Return to Top

Step Two: Reviewing your material

Go through all of the ideas you've generated.

As you do, consider the purpose of the speech,  the tone you want,  who is going to be listening (the audience) and then choose what you want to use from each section of your brainstorm.

Remember you have 3 -5 minutes speaking time. You can not include everything! Take the best and strongest of what you have.

(For more about the characteristics of a good farewell speech ) 

Step Three: Organizing the body of your speech

Enter what you have chosen under the right headings in the farewell speech outline template .  This material will form the body of your farewell speech.

See the examples below. All these content ideas have been taken from the initial brainstorm (Step One).

1. Basic facts: history with company

• [name of colleague eg. Sam] has been with us 5 years.
• Started as senior product development manager and soon became the new group product development manager.
• Leaving to go travelling!

2. Positive qualities, with examples

• Fun loving: organized ‘crazy hat’ and t-shirt Fridays
• Genuinely caring and considerate: made a point of always acknowledging what had been done by someone to get a job done, was careful to NOT overload already stretched workers, watched for signs of stress
• Collaborative: didn’t need to be a solo hero, could easily involve others and share the spotlight, a team player

3. Work stories

Successful projects:

Funny work story:

• the time they thought it was ‘crazy hat’ Friday and arrived at the office in time to meet the trade delegation from China in the foyer wearing an oversized pink top hat decorated with bright yellow daffodils bouncing at the ends of long green springs.

4. Special skills and their impact

• the ability to communicate effectively with empathy and humor 
• to motivate through example
• to quickly collate and transform vast quantities of information into readable, actionable reports which laid the foundation for the success of the projects. I’ve learned a lot from being alongside them.

Step Four: Brainstorm the conclusion

Use the four headings below as a prompt to note a few ideas to use in your ending.

Do this either on a blank sheet of paper of your own or download and print a blank A4 sized speech conclusion and introduction template to use. 

1. What is the impact of your colleague leaving?

What will you miss? What will change?

I know it's selfish, but how on earth are we going to pull together the monthly reports without you? And who is going to delight us with a new silly hat every week? We definitely have a few challenges ahead.

2. Best wishes

Send your colleague off with your best wishes for whatever it is they are going to do next.

• Despite knowing we’re going to miss you, we’re excited that you’re going to new and challenging opportunity. We can’t think of a better person for the job. You deserve it!

We’re really happy that your dreams have come true: that you’re going to be travelling and exploring the world. Just don’t rub it in too hard and too often with instagrammable moments.

On behalf of us all thank you for everything over your time with us: your encouragement, support, humor, and your leadership.

• Thanks for being a great team mate, for teaching me your special spread sheet skills, and most importantly, for sharing my love of chocolate. I couldn’t have wished for a sweeter colleague!

4. Final comment

• Please don't be a stranger. Our door is always open!
• Please remember that to us you are much more than a colleague. You are a friend, and friends keep in touch.  We look forward to catching up with you sometime soon.
• Go well, go strong, and go knowing we think the world of you, and wish you all the best. Keep in touch!

Step Five: Brainstorm the introduction

Write the speech introduction.  You’ll want a couple of sentences to welcome everyone and to acknowledge why you’ve got together.

(There is space on the printable conclusion/introduction brainstorm template to do this.)

• Good afternoon everyone, and thank you for coming.  As we all know, we've gathered to say goodbye to [name] who is leaving us today to take on a new role as [insert name of role e.g. Director of Product Management] for [insert name of company or organization e.g. The Q-R Group]
• Who else has been marking off the days until [name of person] leaves us? From next Monday there’ll be a gap in our team. They’ll be [what ever it is they’re going to do e.g. basking in the sun on a beach in Bali] and we’ll be wondering just how we’re going to manage without them!
• Thanks for coming along to help farewell [name of person]. It’s great to see so many of you here. I hope you’ve brought your tissues to mop up the tears!

Step Six: Linking the pieces together

In this step you're going to link the pieces together to make a complete speech.

You'll see in my example speech I've used most of the notes from the outline, and I've added words where needed to tie it altogether.

Here is the full text of the farewell speech for Sam: your much respected and liked colleague. ☺

It is 516 words long which will take approximately 3-4 minutes to say. (See how many words per minute in a speech for more information.)

Sample farewell speech for a colleague leaving

"Who else has been marking off the days until Sam finally leaves us? It’s sad but from next Monday there’ll be a huge hole in our team. She’ll be basking in the sun on a beach in Bali and we’ll be wondering how we’re going to manage without her.

Sam’s been with us for five years now. She began as a senior product development manager and it didn’t seem that long before she was promoted to new group product development manager, a position she’s held for last three years.

And now she’s got her passport updated, bought flight tickets, and she’s off travelling.

I know I speak on behalf of all of us when I say how much we’ve enjoyed working alongside you Sam. We’ve love and admire the initiatives you put in place. They tick all the boxes: increased diversification, sustainability, productivity and workplace satisfaction.

Crazy Hat Friday reminds us to not take ourselves too seriously and to laugh! Something we all need to do.

The development of the recently implemented very successful mentoring and ongoing training scheme to nurture junior product developers will help ensure we continue to grow. While the push to diversify and develop high value niche products has already proven itself lucrative. You were right! There was a need.

In our opinion, what made these initiatives even better was how you put them in place. You make it easy for people to cooperate and collaborate with each other. We admire and respect how easily you share the spotlight, how you made a point of always acknowledging what someone had done in order to get a project over the line, and especially how careful you were to NOT overload already stretched workers, and to watch for signs of stress.

You’re a true team player and leader – a person who understands how to draw the best from the people they work with.

So yes, we’re going to miss you."

"To help get over your absence we’ll cheer ourselves up by remembering the time you thought it was ‘crazy hat’ Friday and arrived at the office in time to meet the trade delegation from China in the foyer wearing an oversized lolly-pink top hat decorated with bright yellow daffodils bouncing at the ends of long green springs.

It was the best, and has made us smile ever since!

Joking aside, next Monday, the reality will hit home.

Go well, go strong, and go knowing we think the world of you, and wish you all the best. Keep in touch!"

Step seven: testing and rehearsing

To be absolutely sure you've got the tone and timing right, that you've included everything you should  and haven’t put in anything that would be best left out, read your speech to a couple of trusted colleagues. Be guided by their comments, and alter your speech if needed.

Once you're satisfied that you've done the best you can please rehearse. Practice is what makes the difference! Getting the words sorted is an important step. However rehearsing can take your speech from ordinary to extraordinary!

For more go to: how to rehearse a speech .

Farewell speech for a colleague printables

 Click the links below to access the three google word documents. (Please note, the links will open in a new window.

• Brainstorm template for the body of the speech
• Brainstorm template for the speech conclusion and introduction
• Farewell speech for a colleague sample outline

To make a copy, share, email, download or print the document, click open the drop down 'file' menu as shown in the screenshot below. Then click on the option you want.

Another option for getting a farewell speech done

If you've run out of time to write the speech yourself, or you're finding it too tricky to manage, there's another option you may like to consider.

That is getting me to do it for you. I offer a custom speech writing service and have written numerous farewell speeches for clients over the years. You can find out more about that here: speech writer for hire .

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Farewell Speech Writing 101: Tips and Inspiring Examples

• October 26, 2023

Yes, a farewell speech is the best chance for us to put goodbye into words! By presenting a great farewell speech, you express emotions and leave lasting impressions on your workmates, buddies, or graduates. Besides, they’re not just words. They’re a profound way to show respect for the time you’ve spent together and look forward to what’s coming next.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about what a farewell speech is, how to write it with honesty and style, and some examples that will help you do it well. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What is a farewell speech.

A farewell speech is a special talk you give to say a warm goodbye to someone or even to a particular time or event. It’s a way to say thanks, remember good times, and wish everyone well as you go your separate ways. Whether you’re leaving a job, parting with friends, or finishing school, a farewell speech lets you think back on the journey and recognize what you’ve been through.

A good farewell speech usually has a few important parts: saying thanks, recognizing achievements and how you’ve grown, sharing memorable moments, and giving positive wishes for the future. It’s a chance to leave a nice, long-lasting memory and express your feelings honestly and kindly.

How To Write A Farewell Speech?

Writing a farewell speech can be simple and meaningful with these steps:

1/ Start with a Greeting:

Begin your speech with a warm greeting to the audience. Keep it friendly and welcoming.

2/ Express Gratitude:

Thank the audience for being there and acknowledging the occasion. Show appreciation for their presence and support throughout your journey.

3/ Reflect on the Journey:

Reflect on the experiences and moments you’ve shared together. Discuss the achievements, challenges, and growth you’ve witnessed during your time together.

4/ Share Personal Stories:

Share personal stories or anecdotes that highlight the positive and memorable moments. Keep it light-hearted and engaging.

5/ Acknowledge People:

Acknowledge and appreciate the individuals who have made an impact on your journey. Mention colleagues, friends, mentors, or anyone who has been influential.

6/ Offer Best Wishes:

Extend heartfelt best wishes for the future, both for yourself and for the people you’re parting with. Encourage everyone to chase their dreams and embrace new opportunities.

7/ End with a Positive Note:

Conclude your speech with a positive and optimistic note, emphasizing hope and excitement for the future. Reiterate gratitude and express confidence in the road ahead.

8/ Practice and Rehearse:

Practice delivering your speech to ensure a smooth flow and to manage any nervousness. Rehearse in front of a mirror or with a friend to build confidence.

9/ Keep it Concise:

Aim for a brief and focused speech. Avoid making it too lengthy to maintain interest and impact.

Let your genuine emotions and thoughts guide your speech. Speak sincerely, and your authenticity will resonate with the audience.

Farewell Speech Examples

Here are examples of farewell speeches for different scenarios:

Farewell speech to coworkers

Dear colleagues,

I stand before you today with mixed emotions as I bid farewell to this incredible team. Working with all of you has been a true privilege. The memories we’ve created and the projects we’ve accomplished together will forever hold a special place in my heart.

I’ve learned so much from each one of you, and I appreciate the camaraderie, support, and guidance I’ve received throughout my time here. Your dedication and hard work have made this workplace a remarkable and vibrant environment.

As I move forward to new opportunities, I carry with me the invaluable experiences and lessons I’ve gained during my time here. I’m confident that our paths will cross again, and I look forward to staying connected.

Thank you for being amazing colleagues and friends. I wish all of you continued success and fulfillment in your endeavors. Goodbye, and until we meet again.

Farewell speech about colleague

Dear students,

Today is a bittersweet moment as we bid farewell to this wonderful group of young minds. Your time here has been filled with growth, learning, and countless memories that have enriched us all.

I’ve watched you overcome challenges, achieve remarkable feats, and build lasting friendships. Each one of you holds immense potential, and I’m excited to see the incredible paths you will carve for yourselves.

As you step into the world beyond these walls, remember the lessons you’ve learned and the bonds you’ve formed. Stay true to your dreams and aspirations, and never underestimate the impact you can make.

Farewell, dear students, and may you conquer the world with your brilliance.

Farewell speech for students

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Farewell speech for teacher

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

Today, we gather to express our heartfelt gratitude and bid farewell to an exceptional educator and mentor, [Teacher’s Name]. Your dedication and passion for teaching have left an indelible mark on us.

You have not only imparted knowledge but also instilled values, encouraged critical thinking, and nurtured a love for learning within us. Your guidance and support have shaped our academic and personal lives in profound ways.

As you embark on a new journey, know that your influence will always remain with us. We thank you for being an inspirational teacher and a caring mentor. Farewell, and may your future be filled with continued success and fulfillment.

Final Thoughts

A farewell speech is a heartfelt way to bid adieu, expressing gratitude and fond memories. To make your farewell party even more special, consider using AhaSlides – a tool that can add a touch of fun and engagement to the event. Using this tool in your  event management , you can create interactive and memorable experiences to remember.

More tips and advice about events? Pick an event that you’re concerned with, and we’ll give you a helping hand!

What do you say in a farewell speech?

In a farewell speech, express gratitude for the journey shared, acknowledge the support and friendships, reminisce about memorable moments, and offer well-wishes for the future. Keep it genuine and heartfelt.

What is the best farewell speech?

The best farewell speech is one that’s sincere, appreciative, and personal. It reflects on the positive experiences, growth, and relationships built. It leaves a lasting impact by making everyone feel valued and inspired for the future.

What do you say on your last day of work?

You can say thank you to your colleagues and the organization for the opportunities and experiences. Express your appreciation for the learning and growth, and let them know you’ll cherish the memories. Offer your contact details to stay in touch and wish everyone success and happiness in the future. Keep it friendly and positive.

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The Best Farewell Speech Examples and Tips for a Memorable Goodbye

Navigating the challenge of creating the perfect farewell speech might seem like you’re climbing a steep mountain. I understand how overwhelming it can feel, as I’ve had to scale that peak myself.

Through diligent research and drawing from my own journey, I discovered strategies that really work . In this article, we’ll dive into crafting a heartfelt goodbye that blends appreciation, laughter, and a personal connection —key ingredients for leaving an unforgettable mark.

Are you ready to uncover some valuable tips ?

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Practice your farewell speech many times to feel confident and smooth out any rough spots. Make sure your speech is short and engaging , using eye contact to connect with everyone listening.
• Include personal stories, humor, and heartfelt emotions in your speech. This mix will make your goodbye memorable for both you and the audience. Remember to keep it respectful and appropriate for the occasion.
• Use visual aids like photos or slides to add a personal touch and help tell your story. Keep them simple so they enhance your message without distracting from it.
• Look at examples of great farewell speeches , like Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Speech or Oprah Winfrey’s final show episode, for inspiration on how powerful words can inspire others even as you say goodbye.
• Ensure that every part of your speech—from acknowledging accomplishments to expressing gratitude —comes from the heart. This genuineness will leave a lasting impact on those who hear it.

Understanding the Importance of a Farewell Speech

A farewell speech marks the end of an era and acknowledges accomplishments while expressing gratitude. The right words can create a lasting impact on your audience.

Marking the End of an Era

Saying goodbye often means marking the end of an era . This part of a farewell speech is close to my heart. I recall standing in front of colleagues as I prepared to move on from a company that had been like family .

In that moment, acknowledging the end of an era wasn’t just about saying “I’m leaving.” It was about honoring the time we shared, our achievements, and how much we grew together. My voice carried a mix of pride and nostalgia as I reflected on our journey.

Crafting this part of my speech, I focused on creating memorable goodwill messages for my colleagues. Drawing from examples and tips learned over years including those gained while overcoming public speaking fears through Toastmasters International , I discovered the power in words like “It’s been an incredible journey” or “I wish you all the best.” These phrases weren’t just farewells; they were tributes to our shared history .

As someone who once feared any form of public address, mastering this art felt profoundly rewarding. In speeches now, whether marking an era’s closure or celebrating beginnings, blending gratitude with personal anecdotes ensures every word resonates long after it’s spoken .

Acknowledging Accomplishments

Moving on from recognizing the end of an era, acknowledging accomplishments is a crucial aspect of a farewell speech. It’s essential to reflect on the achievements and milestones we’ve reached together.

As I craft my farewell speech, it’s important for me to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that has brought us to this moment.

I am grateful for all the support and guidance that has led to our collective success .

It’s been an incredible journey filled with many victories, big and small. These accomplishments have shaped our time together, creating lasting memories that will stay with us as we move forward.

Expressing Gratitude

When crafting a farewell speech, expressing gratitude is crucial. It’s essential to acknowledge the support and contributions of those around you. I found that using specific examples or stories to express thanks can make your speech more heartfelt and impactful .

By genuinely appreciating the efforts of individuals, you create a lasting impression on your audience.

Now let’s move on to discussing the elements of a memorable farewell speech – Personalized Content, Humor, Emotional Touch, and Words of Wisdom.

Elements of a Memorable Farewell Speech

Crafting a memorable farewell speech involves personalizing the content and adding humor, emotional touch, and words of wisdom. It’s about connecting with your audience in a meaningful way.

Personalized Content

When crafting a memorable farewell speech, it’s essential to include personalized content that resonates with the audience. Tailoring your message to reflect specific experiences and memories shared with colleagues adds a genuine touch to the speech.

By referencing personal anecdotes or inside jokes , you can create a heartfelt connection and leave a lasting impression.

Incorporating personalized content also shows thoughtfulness and appreciation for the relationships built during your time together. It allows you to express gratitude in a more meaningful way, making the farewell speech authentic and relatable.

Humor is a key element in a memorable farewell speech. It lightens the atmosphere and creates an emotional connection with the audience. Using lighthearted anecdotes and jokes relevant to the occasion can bring smiles and warmth to your speech, making it more engaging for everyone involved.

A well-timed humorous remark can also help you establish rapport with your listeners, helping them feel at ease during this bittersweet moment.

Crafting a heartfelt farewell message sprinkled with humor will leave a lasting impression on your colleagues or friends. Remember to keep the humor respectful and appropriate for the occasion, ensuring that it uplifts spirits without causing offense.

Emotional Touch

Crafting a memorable farewell speech involves adding an emotional touch to connect with the audience on a personal level. Share heartfelt stories and express genuine emotions to create a lasting impact.

Use sincere words of appreciation and gratitude to convey your heartfelt feelings, allowing others to feel the depth of your sentiment. Connecting emotionally will make your farewell speech meaningful and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Adding an emotional touch to my speeches has always been important for me, as it allows the audience to connect with my words on a deeper level. By sharing personal experiences and expressing genuine emotions, I found that my farewell speeches became more impactful and memorable for both myself and the audience.

Words of Wisdom

When delivering your farewell speech, remember to share words of wisdom that resonate with the audience. Use insightful quotes, personal anecdotes , or universal truths to leave a lasting impact .

Keep it simple and relatable to ensure your message is understood and appreciated by everyone. This will help create an emotional connection and make your farewell speech truly memorable.

Tips for Delivering a Great Farewell Speech

Practice your speech repeatedly to perfect your delivery. Keep it concise and centered on the main message.

Practice, Practice, Practice

To deliver a great farewell speech , practice is crucial . Rehearse your speech multiple times to build confidence and smooth out any hiccups . This will also help you be more familiar with the content , making delivery easier on the actual day.

When it’s finally time to say your goodbyes, delivering a well-practiced speech will leave a lasting impression on your audience and make for an unforgettable farewell.

– Understanding the Importance of a Farewell Speech

Keep it Brief and Focused

Crafting a great farewell speech means keeping it brief and focused . Practice your speech and make sure to keep it short, as no one enjoys long goodbyes. Engage the audience with eye contact and maintain a confident posture .

Remember that brevity is key to delivering a memorable farewell speech.

When writing or delivering a farewell address, stick to the main points without going off on tangents. Use personal anecdotes briefly to connect with your audience and convey gratitude sincerely.

Use Visual Aids

Now, let’s talk about using visual aids . Visual aids like slides or props can make your farewell speech more engaging and memorable. They can help to reinforce your message and keep the audience focused on what you’re saying.

Visual aids, such as photos or charts, can add a personal touch to your speech, making it more relatable for the audience. Remember to keep your visuals simple and easy to understand , so they enhance your message without overwhelming your listeners.

Utilizing visual aids also gives you an opportunity to showcase gratitude in a creative way and share fond memories through pictures or videos. Incorporating these elements will leave a lasting impression on your colleagues or friends.

Engage with Your Audience

Engaging with your audience is crucial for a successful farewell speech. Maintain eye contact to connect with every listener. Ask questions and encourage participation to make them feel involved in the moment.

Remember, a great speech is not just about you, it’s about creating a bond with your audience .

Examples of Great Farewell Speeches

– Great farewell speeches inspire and resonate with the audience, leaving a lasting impact. Read more to explore these powerful examples.

Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Speech

I vividly remember Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Speech . His speech was simple, yet impactful. He shared three stories from his life : about connecting the dots, love and loss, and death as a motivator.

It’s unforgettable how he encouraged us to follow our passion and intuition , regardless of the challenges we might face in life. This speech resonates with me because it encourages everyone to pursue what they love .

Oprah Winfrey’s Final Episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show”

Moving from Steve Jobs’ inspiring speech to Oprah Winfrey’s memorable farewell , her final episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” aired on May 25, 2011. The show was a significant moment in television history as it marked the end of an era for millions of viewers.

In this emotional and powerful address , Oprah expressed her gratitude to the audience and reflected on the impact of the show throughout its remarkable 25-year run . With heartfelt words and genuine emotion, she conveyed her deep appreciation to everyone who had been part of her journey.

This farewell speech serves as a prime example of how personalization and emotional touch can make a lasting impression.

Barack Obama’s Farewell Address

Transitioning from Oprah Winfrey’s final episode of “The Oprah Winfrey Show” to Barack Obama ‘s Farewell Address, let me share an impactful example of a farewell speech . Barack Obama delivered his heartfelt address on January 10, 2017 , marking the end of his presidency after serving two terms in office.

This iconic speech showcased eloquence and emotion as he expressed gratitude to the American people, highlighted accomplishments during his tenure, and emphasized the importance of unity and civic engagement .

Obama’s farewell address is a prime example of weaving together personal anecdotes with profound messages that resonated with millions. He demonstrated how powerful words can inspire hope and change while bidding goodbye to the nation as its leader.

Ellen DeGeneres’ Monologue on Her Last Day as Host

On Ellen DeGeneres’ last day as host, she delivered a heartfelt monologue filled with gratitude, humor, and emotional moments . Her speech expressed appreciation for the audience and her team while sharing funny memories from her time hosting the show.

The monologue also featured personal anecdotes and words of wisdom for her viewers to carry forward. Ellen’s delivery showcased warmth, authenticity, and connection with her audience.

Ellen DeGeneres’ final monologue beautifully encapsulated the essence of a memorable farewell speech ; it combined personalized content, humor, an emotional touch, and words of wisdom in a way that resonated deeply with her viewers.

As I wrap up, let me introduce Dr. Elizabeth Carter, a renowned expert in communication and public speaking with over 20 years of experience. With her PhD in Communication Studies, numerous published articles on effective speech-making, and countless workshops led around the globe, Dr.

Carter is a treasure trove of knowledge on crafting memorable goodbyes.

Dr. Carter points out that combining humor, personal stories, and gratitude not only captures attention but also creates lasting memories for both the speaker and the audience. She emphasizes that these elements make farewell speeches heartfelt and impactful.

She raises an important point about safety and ethics in speech content —always respecting privacy and sensitive information while sharing anecdotes or achievements. Her advice ensures speakers maintain professionalism yet connect deeply with their listeners.

For everyday life or specific goodbye moments, Dr. Carter suggests tailoring your speech to fit the context —whether it’s a retirement party or a colleague’s departure lunch—and keeping it concise to leave a strong impression without dragging on.

In her evaluation, she acknowledges that while injecting personal touch and humor works best for most, it might not suit every scenario or audience type; thus highlighting the importance of knowing your audience well .

Finally, Dr. Carter gives her nod to using these tips for crafting farewell speeches as incredibly valuable tools for anyone looking to leave on high note—underscoring their effectiveness in making any send-off more meaningful.

Ryan Nelson is the founder of Speak2Impress, a platform dedicated to helping individuals master the art of public speaking. Despite having a crippling fear of public speaking for many years, Ryan overcame his anxiety through diligent practice and active participation in Toastmasters. Now residing in New York City, he is passionate about sharing his journey and techniques to empower others to speak with confidence and clarity.

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Farewell Speech

Farewell Speech | Writing Tips & Examples

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Farewell speeches can be tricky to write. You might worry about saying the right things and making a good impression. 

Don't worry; we're here to help. 

In this blog, we'll show you how to create a touching farewell speech step by step. Whether you're new to this or have some experience, we've got you covered. You'll learn how to speak from the heart and leave a lasting memory with your audience.

• 1. Understanding Farewell Speech 
• 2. How to Write a Farewell Speech?
• 3. Farewell Speech Examples 
• 4. Farewell Speech At Work
• 5. Farewell Speeches By Famous People 
• 6. Writing Tips for a Farewell Speech

Understanding Farewell Speech 

A farewell speech is a heartfelt and often emotional address given when someone is leaving a position, organization, or community. 

The main purpose of this type of speech is to reflect on the experiences shared, express gratitude, and offer best wishes for the future. Whether delivered by the person departing or by others in their honor, a farewell speech marks a significant transition and celebrates contributions made during their time together.

Effective speech writing for a farewell speech involves capturing these sentiments in a way that resonates with the audience and honors the occasion.

When to Give a Farewell Speech

Farewell speeches are appropriate for a variety of occasions, including:

• Retirement: Celebrating the culmination of a long and fruitful career.
• Graduation: Marking the end of an educational journey and the beginning of new opportunities.
• Job Transition: Acknowledging a move to a new role or company.
• Relocation: Saying goodbye when moving to a new city or country.
• End of a Term or Tenure: Concluding a term of service in an organization, club, or committee.
• Farewell Parties: Given during social gatherings arranged to bid farewell to someone.
• Departure from a Team: When a member leaves a sports team, project group, or other collaborative effort.
• Military Send-Off: For soldiers being deployed or retiring from service.

How to Write a Farewell Speech?

If the planning of your goodbye speech is intense and structured, the execution of the ideas will become easier. Once all the prewriting steps are taken effectively, follow the writing steps provided below:

Step 1 - Generating Ideas Aligned with Your Audience

Alright! First, think about who will be listening—colleagues, friends, classmates, family, or a mix? Consider what they expect and what tone and message will connect with them. Your speech should feel relatable.

Now, list the main points: memories, achievements, lessons learned, and well-wishes. Brainstorming these ideas will guide your speech direction.

Step 2 - Create an Outline 

Although farewell speeches are informal and more personal, they still require a particular outline. 

So, before you dive into writing, create a rough outline for your speech. 

This can be a simple bullet-point list of the main sections of your speech, including the opening, body, and conclusion. Outlining helps you organize your thoughts and create a speech format . 

Step 3 - Create an Interesting Opening 

When you write a farewell address, you have the opportunity to be creative and personal. Begin with an attention-grabbing opening to captivate your audience. 

Dull beginnings can lose your audience's interest quickly. You can kickstart your speech with humor, a casual statement, a meaningful quote, or a relatable anecdote. 

After the hook, share your feelings about leaving the place or position. Greet your audience and briefly state the purpose of the event.

Struggling to come up with a good way to start your speech? Check out these creative ways to start a speech and grab your audience’s attention!

Step 4 - Create a Strong Body 

The body of your speech contains the heart of your message. Here, you'll share ideas, stories, events, and key points. Be sure to provide relevant information. While crafting the body of your speech:

• Be Personal: Make your farewell speech relatable by using personal anecdotes and a conversational tone. Engage your audience with your words and emotions.
• Keep It Concise: Lengthy speeches can lose their impact. Keep it concise and straightforward. Focus on events and moments involving others, avoiding excessive self-focus. Steer clear of repeating or over-explaining.

Step 5- Provide Closure 

Conclude your farewell speech by summarizing the main points and expressing gratitude. You can also extend well wishes or share a relevant quote. This closing part wraps up your speech on a thoughtful note.

Step 6 - Review and Practice

Before delivering your speech, review it thoroughly. Read your speech aloud to check the tone and flow. Practice your delivery to ensure it comes across as genuine and not overly scripted.

Farewell speeches are given in various settings and to diverse audiences. 

Farewell Speech Examples 

As discussed, farewell speeches are given on many occasions. Some of the most popular farewell speeches have to be American presidential speeches. These speeches reflect on the tenure, express gratitude to the nation, and offer guidance for the future.

Here is a segment from Harry Truman’s presidential farewell speech , 1953:

Here are some farewell speech examples for students and teachers: 

Farewell Speech For Teachers

Are you a teacher by profession who is leaving the job or position from a certain school? Then you might be asked to deliver a farewell speech. The example provided below will help you write an impactful speech.

Sample Farewell Speech for Teachers

Farewell Speech for Students

Students often find writing farewell speeches daunting. Whether it is a graduation speech or just a goodbye speech in a classroom, students have no idea what to say.

If you need to give a farewell address at school, here are some samples:

Sample Farewell Speech for Students

Farewell Speech by Students Leaving School

Farewell Speech in English

Farewell Speech for Seniors

Need more sample speeches? Explore these speech examples of multiple types of speeches to get inspiration!

Farewell Speech for Friends

Saying goodbye to friends or family members is the hardest but delivering a speech to them is the easiest. 

As it is an informal type of speech, people can start from anywhere and say anything. But if you are not sure how to say goodbye to friends, take help from the example below. 

Sample Farewell Speech for Friends

Farewell Speech At Work

Saying goodbye at work, be it in a retirement speech or when leaving colleagues, marks a significant moment in your career. Let's look at two common work occasions for giving a farewell speech:

Farewell Speech for Boss

This speech is given when your manager is leaving the company or moving to a new position. It includes an introduction, appreciation for their leadership, personal anecdotes, well wishes, and a warm farewell.

Here’s a sample speech for biding your boss goodbye:

Farewell Speech For Boss

Farewell Speech for Colleagues

Farewell speeches for colleagues are given when a team member is leaving the organization, transferring to a different department, or relocating.

Here’s an example of how you can create a speech for your co-worker:

Farewell Speech For Colleague

Farewell Speeches By Famous People 

Here are five farewell speeches by famous personalities:

• Winston Churchill

"We shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our island, whatever the cost may be."

• J.K. Rowling (Harvard Commencement Speech)

 "It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all, in which case you have failed by default."

• Michelle Obama (Farewell Address as First Lady)

"Being your First Lady has been the greatest honor of my life, and I hope I’ve made you proud."

• John F. Kennedy (Inaugural Address)

"Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."

• Meryl Streep (Golden Globe Acceptance Speech)

"When they called my name, I had this feeling I could hear half of America going, 'Oh, no. Oh, come on, why her? Again?' But whatever."

Writing Tips for a Farewell Speech

While there are no strict rules for speechwriting, some tips can make your address memorable.

• Share Personal Experiences - Share your stories and incidents to make your goodbye address memorable. Through your personal experiences, state how things and actions of others influenced you and your life
• Show Gratitude - Showing gratitude is the right attitude. Thank people and their gestures with an open heart.
• Keep it Short - Avoid dragging your speech and share interesting information only. 
• Use Simple Words - Avoid using bombastic vocabulary. You are not there to impress anyone but just to be grateful for your efforts. 
• Be Original - Copying the addresses of others is not the right choice. Be unique and original and write your content for the speech. 

Now that you've gained insights into crafting a meaningful farewell speech, you can create a memorable and heartfelt address. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

What words to say in a farewell speech.

You might say: 

• "I am grateful for the opportunity..."
• "It has been an honor to work with..."
• "I will always cherish the memories we've shared..."
• "I look forward to our paths crossing again..."

How do I start a farewell speech?

Start with a warm greeting and thank the audience for being present.

For example: "Good [morning/afternoon/evening] everyone. I am deeply touched to see so many familiar faces gathered here today..."

How to say goodbye speech to colleagues?

• Express gratitude for the opportunities and experiences.
• Share personal reflections or memories.
• Offer well wishes for their future endeavors.

Example: "To my wonderful colleagues, it's with mixed emotions that I say goodbye today. Working alongside each of you has been an incredible journey..."

What is a good farewell quote?

• "Goodbyes are not forever, are not the end; it simply means I'll miss you until we meet again." - Unknown
• "The hardest part of leaving is saying goodbye to those who you have grown close to." - Unknown
• "Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened." - Dr. Seuss

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How To Give a Farewell Speech in English (How To, Samples, and Tips)

What is a Farewell Speech?

A farewell speech is given at the end of an event or occasion, such as a graduation ceremony, in order to thank those who have been involved and to wish everyone well. The speech can be emotional or humorous, but it should always be positive. Farewell speeches are also an opportunity to reflect on the past and to look forward to the future.

If you are giving a farewell speech, be sure to thank those who have helped you along the way and to express your excitement for what lies ahead. Whatever you do, don’t forget to take the time to say goodbye. So take some deep breaths, and get writing down those fond memories!

The Right Time to Give a Farewell Speech?

There is no one “right” time to give a farewell speech. The key is to gauge the mood of your audience and decide whether a farewell speech would be well-received. If you’re leaving a job, for example, you might give a farewell speech at your going away party. If you’re moving to a new city, you might give a farewell speech to your friends, family, and other members of your personal life. And if you’re retiring from a long career, you might give a farewell speech at your retirement party.

The important thing is to make sure that your farewell speech is appropriate for the occasion. If you’re not sure whether a farewell speech would be welcome, err on the side of caution and don’t give one. But if you think your audience would appreciate a few words of farewell, then go ahead and give your farewell speech with confidence.

How to Write Farewell Speech at Work:

1. drafting an outline.

The best way to approach writing a farewell speech is to draft an outline. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you hit all the key points you want to make. Here’s a basic outline for a farewell speech:

• Introduce yourself and explain why you’re giving the speech.
• Thank your audience for their time, support, and friendship.
• Reflect on your time together and shared experiences.
• Offer words of wisdom, encouragement, and hope for the future.
• Conclude with a final thank you and farewell.

3. Writing an introduction

When it comes time to write a farewell speech at work, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

• Make sure that you thank the people who have been most instrumental in your career. This could be your boss, your colleagues, or even your clients.
• Take this opportunity to reflect on your time at the company and highlight some of your proudest accomplishments.
• Wish everyone all the best for the future and express your gratitude for being part of such a great team.

5. Adding humor when appropriate

When it’s time to say farewell, a little humor can go a long way. Whether you’re the one moving on to a new adventure or the one left behind, a funny farewell speech can help to lighten the mood and make the tough times a little bit easier.

Of course, it’s important to strike the right balance – too much humor and you risk coming across as insensitive or unprofessional. But a well-placed joke or two can help to ease the tension and let everyone know that it’s ok to laugh through the tears. So if you’re looking for a way to add a little levity to your farewell speech, here are a few pointers:

• Try to avoid making fun of anyone in particular. Jokes about your boss or coworker might be entertaining, but they’re also likely to backfire.
• Steer clear of controversial topics like religion or politics – nobody wants to get into an argument at a farewell party.
• Don’t be afraid to self-deprecate – sometimes the best jokes are the ones we make at our own expense.

3. Expanding on your ideas

What are some of your fondest memories? What have you learned? This is your opportunity to share your gratitude for the experience and the people who have made it possible.

Next, turn your attention to the future. What are your plans? What do you hope to accomplish? Use this as an opportunity to inspire your colleagues and remind them of their own potential. Finally, end on a positive note and thank everyone for their support.

4. Editing your speech

Take some time to edit your speech before delivering it. Make sure it flows well and sounds natural. Editing your speech effectively will make sure it is clear and concise.

Remember, this is not a time to deliver a long, drawn-out speech. Instead, keep your farewell speech short and sweet. And most importantly, make sure you express your sincere thanks and best wishes to your colleagues. With these tips in mind, you can write a farewell speech that will be both memorable and meaningful.

5. Proofreading your work

When it comes time to write a farewell speech at work, proofreading your work is essential. Not only do you want to make sure that your grammar and punctuation are correct, but you also want to check for any awkward phrasing or awkward sentences. By taking the time to proofread your speech, you can be sure that you’re putting your best foot forward as you say farewell to your colleagues.

7. Asking for a colleague’s opinion

One way to ensure that your farewell speech is a hit is to ask for input from a trusted colleague. This person can help you to choose the right words and tone, ensuring that your farewell speech is both heartfelt and professional. In addition, seeking out feedback will show your colleagues that you value their opinion and are willing to work together to create a farewell speech that everyone will remember.

10 Tips for Making a Memorable Farewell Speech

1. express gratitude:.

Regardless of the occasion, a farewell speech is an opportunity to share your feelings and experiences, and to express your gratitude to the people who have been a part of your life.

2. Keep it Personal:

The most memorable farewell speeches are those that are heartfelt and personal. Avoid using cliches or recycled jokes, and instead take the time to reflect on your unique experiences and relationships.

3. Mind Your Tone:

It’s also important to be mindful of the tone you set with your farewell speech. While it’s okay to be sentimental, avoid being too negative or nostalgic as this can make the event feel more like a funeral than a celebration.

4. Keep it Short:

Keep your farewell speech short and sweet. No one wants to listen to a long, drawn-out farewell, so try to keep your comments concise and to the point.

5. Give Shoutouts:

Be sure to thank all of the important people in your life, from your family and friends, to your colleagues and mentors. A sincere expression of gratitude will go a long way in making your farewell speech memorable.

6. Lessons Learned:

Share a few words about what you’ve learned during your time at the organization or in the relationship, and offer some advice for the future.

7. Keep it Tasteful:

Use humorous anecdotes sparingly, as they can easily backfire if not delivered properly. If you do choose to share a funny story, make sure it is appropriate for the occasion and that everyone in attendance will have the correct interpretation of it.

8. Be Authentic:

Be authentic in your delivery, and don’t try to be someone you’re not. Your farewell speech should be a reflection of who you are, so resist the urge to put on an act or put on a show.

9. Be Positive:

When possible, end on a positive note by sharing your hopes for the future or expressing excitement about what’s to come next in your life.

10. Say Goodbye and Thank You:

And finally, don’t forget to say goodbye! A simple “thank you for everything” or “I’ll miss you” will suffice – just make sure you actually mean it.

Examples of Farewell Speeches at Work

Farewell speech for retirement.

“Although I am sad to be leaving, I am also excited to start this new phase of my life. I want to thank you all for being such a great team to work with over the years. I will really miss Getty Images, but I know that you will continue to do great things without me.

I am so proud of all that we have accomplished together and I know that the future is bright for this company. Thank you again for everything. I wish you all the best in the years to come.”

Farewell speech for moving on

“As we all know, today is my last day here at the office. It’s been a great ride, but now it’s time for me to move on to new opportunities. I want to take this opportunity to say farewell and thank you all for the support and friendship you’ve shown me over the years. I’ll never forget the good times we’ve had together, and I’ll always cherish the relationships I’ve made here. I wish you all the best in everything you do, and I know you’ll continue to be successful in all your endeavors. Thank you again, and farewell!”

Farewell speech for your boss

“It has been my honor and privilege to work with you for the American people over the past few years. You have been a great mentor and an even better friend. I will never forget all the advice, support, and laughs we’ve shared as we improved the American experience. I am grateful for everything you’ve done for me and I know I will always cherish our time together. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors to improve the American memory and American Industry.”

Farewell speech with humour

“I’m not going to lie, I’m going to miss each and every one of you. But I know that you’ll all be fine without me. You’ve been surviving without me for years, after all! I just want to say thanks for all the support, laughter, and advice over the years. I know I’ve been known to be a bit forgetful, so please bear with me if I forget your names from time to time (or the 34th time!). Just wave and say ‘It’s me!’ And I’ll be sure to remember. Thanks again, everyone.”

Farewell speech over email

“Hello everyone,

I wanted to take a moment to say farewell. I have enjoyed working with all of you and am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this team. I am moving on to a new opportunity now, but I will always remember the good times we had here.

I wish everyone the best in their future endeavors and professional lives. Thank you for everything.

[Your name]”

Farewell speech in person

“As I stand before you today, I can’t help but reflect on all the incredible memories we’ve shared over the years. It seems like only yesterday we were laughing and joking together in the staff room about popular culture and singing karaoke at John’s 39th birthday party. But alas, all good things must come to an end, and so today is my farewell.

I’m not going to lie, it’s been tough saying goodbye to all of you. But I know that with each passing day, the memories of our time together will only grow more and more dear. So although this may be farewell for now, I know we’ll all be back in each other’s lives very soon.

In the meantime, I want to thank you all for everything. It’s been an absolute pleasure working with each and every one of you. And I sincerely hope that our paths will cross again soon.

Until then, farewell! And may the odds be ever in your favour!”

When it comes time to move on in your career, you’ll want to make sure you craft the perfect farewell speech. And with the tips from this blog, you’ll be able to do just that.

First, you’ll want to thank your colleagues, mentors, and others who have helped you along the way. Next, you’ll want to reflect on your time at the company and share any lessons you’ve learned. Finally, you’ll want to express your excitement for the future and wish your company all the best.

By following the tips detailed in this blog, you’ll be able to deliver a farewell speech that is both memorable and meaningful. So go ahead and start planning your farewell speech today – it’s sure to be a hit!

The main purpose of a farewell speech is to thank the person for their contributions and to wish them well in the future. However, a farewell speech can also be used to give advice or share memories. If you are giving a farewell speech, it is important to keep the tone positive and upbeat. Thank the person for their contributions and express your best wishes for their future endeavors. You may also want to share a memory or give some advice.

While it may be difficult to say goodbye, a farewell speech can be a great way to show your appreciation for someone who is leaving. Whether you are the one saying farewell or you are the one who is being farewelled, there are a few things to keep in mind when starting to write a farewell speech. First, consider what you want to say. A farewell speech should be positive and focus on the good memories you have with the person. It is also important to be genuine in your words. If you are the one giving the farewell speech, try to personalize it as much as possible. For example, you might share a story about how the person has helped you or made an impact in your life. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to deliver a farewell speech that will be remembered long after the farewell itself.

It can be difficult to know what to say, especially if you are feeling emotional. However, there are a few key elements that can help to make your farewell speech more effective. First, take a moment to reflect on the relationships you have enjoyed with the people you are saying goodbye to. What have you learned from them? What memories do you have of good times together? sharing these reflections can help to create a more personal and meaningful farewell speech.

Whether you are leaving a job, a project, or just moving on to something new, it can be tough to find the right words to express to your team. However, a farewell speech is a great opportunity to thank your team for their hard work and let them know how much you have appreciated their dedication. Here are a few tips to help you write a farewell message that will resonate with your team: 1. Keep it positive. Focus on the good times and the things you have accomplished together. Avoid dwelling on negative experiences or putting blame on anyone. 2. Be personal. Share stories and anecdotes that illustrate your time working together. This will help your team remember you and feel connected to you even after you’re gone. 3. Be specific. Thank each member of your team by name and mention what they contributed that was most valuable to you. This will make everyone feel appreciated. 4. Keep it short. No one wants to listen to a long, drawn-out speech. Be concise and to the point so that your team can move on quickly. Saying farewell is never easy, but if you keep these tips in mind, you can write a message that will leave a lasting impression on your team.

A farewell speech is an opportunity to say goodbye to your colleagues, classmates, or friends. It can be a bittersweet moment, especially if you’re moving on to a new phase in your life. However, a farewell speech can also be a powerful way to reflect on the past and inspire others to pursue their dreams. In a farewell speech, you have the chance to thank the people who have supported you, share your hopes for the future, and express your gratitude for the experiences you’ve had. Whether you’re the one leaving or the one staying behind, a farewell speech can be a meaningful way to commemorate a special time in your life.

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Farewell Speech Examples For Every Situation

When you move on in life from a job, a neighborhood, or a position, you may be formally honored and need to make a farewell speech on your last day. While most goodbye speeches follow a simple format, you can pattern your address after these farewell speech examples.

Saying goodbye can be emotional and challenging, but delivering a heartfelt farewell speech leaves a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of those present.

This article explores inspiring examples of farewell speeches , showcasing the power of words to express gratitude, share memories, and inspire hope for the future. Whether bidding farewell to colleagues, classmates, or loved ones, these speeches offer a glimpse into the art of saying goodbye with grace and eloquence.

Table of Contents

What Should You Say In A Farewell Speech?

In the  best farewell speeches , people express their gratitude, share memories, and leave a positive lasting impression.  Some common elements include:

• Speakers often  express gratitude  to the individuals or groups they are addressing, acknowledging their support, friendship, or guidance throughout their journey together.
• Farewell speeches often r eflect shared experiences , memorable moments, and accomplishments. Speakers may recount anecdotes, highlight achievements, and reminisce about the time spent together.
• Speakers often  extend their best wishes to the group of people in attendance , expressing hopes for their future endeavors. They may offer encouragement, inspire confidence, and express optimism about what lies ahead.
• Farewell speeches often include  recognizing and appreciating specific individuals  who have had a significant impact. This can involve expressing gratitude to mentors, colleagues, friends, or family members who have supported and influenced the speaker’s journey.
• Speakers may  reflect on personal growth and lessons learned . They might share insights gained, challenges faced, and how those experiences have shaped them as individuals.
• Farewell messages often  create a sense of closure and unity  by emphasizing the importance of the shared journey and the connections formed. Speakers may encourage ongoing relationships, express a desire to stay connected, and leave the audience with a sense of unity and togetherness.

Tailor the content of your speech according to the situation and audience. For example, the mood of your address may be lighter at a farewell party than at a more intimate occasion in an office.

How Do You Start A Farewell Speech?

A good farewell speech captures the audience’s attention and establishes a connection. You can do this by  acknowledging the presence of everyone gathered and going into a heartfelt opening.  Sharing a personal anecdote or a reflective quote sets the tone and establishes an emotional connection with the listeners.

What Should I Do If I’m Too Nervous To Speak?

Many people find the thought of  public speaking terrifying , and it’s quite common to experience feelings of dread and sickness in the days and hours before you speak. The following steps may help you alleviate these symptoms:

• Before stepping up to speak,  take a few deep breaths  to help relax your body and calm your mind. Deep breathing can help reduce anxiety and nervousness by providing a moment of focus and centering.
• Adequate preparation  is key to building confidence. Rehearse your speech until you are entirely familiar with the content and have become comfortable with the flow and structure. Practice in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or family member to gain feedback and build confidence.
• Begin your speech with a strong and engaging opening line  or anecdote that captures the audience’s attention, maybe about your personal life. This can help you overcome initial nerves and establish a positive connection with the listeners.
• If appropriate, consider using  visual aids or notes  to assist you during the speech. Having key points or reminders written down can help you stay on track and provide a sense of reassurance.
• When speaking, consciously  slow down your pace and remember to incorporate pauses . This lets you gather your thoughts, maintain composure, and engage with the audience. Pauses can also help you manage nerves and project confidence.
• Remember, the audience is there to support you.  Maintain eye contact, smile, and engage with them . Consider focusing on receptive or friendly audience members to help you feel more at ease.
• Feeling nervous is totally natural and even expected in public speaking. In fact, you should experience some trepidation.  Embrace any imperfections and be authentic in your delivery . Share your genuine emotions and tell the audience you value their presence.
• If your nerves persist,  seek support from a trusted friend, family member, or mentor.  They can offer guidance, encouragement, or even accompany you during your speech for added confidence.

You can overcome your nerves with practice, preparation, and a positive mindset and deliver a memorable farewell speech.

What Should I Do After The Speech?

After delivering your farewell address, wrap up the speech effectively and engage with the audience.  Here’s what you can do:

• Take a moment to  thank the audience  for their attention. Let them know how much their support and camaraderie have meant to you. Wish them good luck in their future endeavors.
• Depending on the setting and the nature of the farewell, you can i nvite the audience to ask questions or share their thoughts.  This can create an interactive and engaging atmosphere, allowing for further connection and dialogue.
• After the formal part of your speech, make an effort to  interact with the audience individually . Approach people and engage in conversations.
• Use the opportunity to  network with colleagues, classmates, or other attendees . Exchange contact information with individuals you would like to stay connected with.
• Take some time to r eflect on the experience of delivering the goodbye speech . Consider what went well, what you could improve, and any lessons learned. Reflecting on your performance can help you grow as a speaker and build confidence for future public speaking engagements.
• If possible,  seek feedback from trusted individuals  present during your speech. Ask for their honest opinion, constructive criticism, and suggestions for improvement. Feedback provides valuable insights and helps you refine your speaking skills.
• After the farewell event, consider  sending thank-you notes or messages . This gesture shows appreciation and reinforces the connections you have formed.

What Are Some Good Farewell Speech Examples?

Here are some sample farewell speech excerpts:

Leaving A Job

“Good evening. Looking back, I am reminded of the countless triumphs we achieved together. From overcoming complex challenges to celebrating major milestones, we have consistently demonstrated the power of teamwork and unwavering dedication.”

Transferring To Another Office

“Throughout my time in this office, it has been a privilege to work alongside some of the most talented individuals who have inspired me every day. Together, we have tackled challenges, celebrated successes, and created a vibrant and supportive work environment. The fond memories we have shared will always hold a special place in my heart.”

“Dear friends and neighbors, I stand before you on this special occasion with mixed emotions as I bid farewell to this beloved neighborhood that has been my home for many years. As I prepare to move to a new house, I am reminded of the countless memories and the strong sense of community that has made this place so special.”

Joining The Military

“Joining the military is not merely a career choice; it is a commitment to defend and protect the ideals we hold dear. Standing alongside the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to safeguarding our nation’s freedom is an honor. I find it hard to find the right words, but I am humbled by the opportunity to contribute to this noble cause and be part of a legacy of courage, sacrifice, and selfless service.”

Going Away To College

“Standing here today, I am humbled by the tremendous support and guidance I have received from my parents and teachers. Their unwavering belief in my potential has prepared me for this natural progression from high school to college, where I am eager to embark on a journey of self-discovery, hard work, knowledge, and endless possibilities.”

Leaving Your Post In An Organization

“Good morning. I leave the business today with a mixture of gratitude and a sense of heaviness in my heart. My journey with my manager and colleagues has been transformative, and their unwavering support and guidance have prepared me for this moment. While it has been incredibly difficult to make the decision to move on, I believe it is time for me to embark on a new path, carrying with me the cherished memories and lessons we have shared.”

Adam Howarth

Adam covers the topic of Public Speaking for Digital Authority. From his first experience of oratory with his school debating society to his more recent experiences of promoting the local business scene in Wrexham, Wales, he has always been involved in public speaking.

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Farewell Speech at Work- Examples

We all have envisaged giving a farewell speech when we retire or leave a job. Farewell speeches fancy each one of us. But how to deliver a memorable farewell speech still confuses many. We all want our farewell speech to leave an impact on the audience. It should be something they would cherish forever. This article tends to make the job easier for you. The article will elucidate upon what are the things to ponder upon while writing and delivering a farewell speech, with the aid of examples. Let’s know about the Farewell Speech at Work.

Know what a farewell speech is

A professional gesture, farewell speech is usually delivered when an individual is retiring from his job or leaving the job to chase better career opportunities. Not every employee leaving the job gives a farewell speech, it depends on the company. Usually, employees who have worked with the company for a long time, are entitled to give a farewell speech. The speech is delivered either at the farewell party organized by the company or at official parties and ceremonies of the company. 

Your farewell speech should start with an introduction of yourself. You can also start the speech with any relevant quote, this helps in grabbing the attention of the audience. The introduction should include your designation or position at the office. You can make the introduction a blend of formal and informal by including what your colleagues used to call you. This might make people laugh and feel connected. 

Once you pour in all your ideas, you should formulate a strong conclusion which sums up your speech. It should be a gist of all the years you have spent in the company. Try to give the conclusion an emotional touch because you know farewell speeches ought to be emotional.

Delivering the speech

While delivering the speech, you should keep a check on your tone. Make sure you do not speak in a violent or monotonous tone. The tone should be relaxed, jovial, and emotional, depending upon the sentence you are speaking. You have to be cautious with your tone as this is a farewell speech at work.

A major thing that one needs to keep in mind while delivering any speech is to make eye contact. Even while giving your farewell speech, you need to make eye contact with the audience. This makes the speech engaging and interesting. People say eyes say a lot. This is indeed the truth. You can make eye gestures and make your speech more impactful.

Farewell Speech for Retirement

Good evening everyone, 

To the head of the Human Resources Department, Mr. Styles, I found a great friend and an advisor in you. You have always been there during my ups and downs in the company. From reviewing my presentations to reviewing this farewell speech, you have done it all. I feel blessed to have got a colleague-cum-friend in you. Thank you for always being there.

This was an example of a farewell speech at work when the person is taking retirement from his career.

Farewell speech for leaving the job to avail new opportunities

As I leave this company to pursue yet another dream of starting something of my own, I feel overwhelmed. This company has taught me everything from the basics. I had never envisaged a life out of this abode of mine. This company marks the beginning of my career. I am glad that I am leaving with many learning experiences.

The two speeches are different yet the same. Both are emotional and sentimental and are used to bid farewell to colleagues and co-workers. However, one is about getting retired and bidding farewell to work-life while the other is about stepping into a new world of more opportunities. 

Difference between a farewell speech and a farewell speech at the office

Frequently asked questions (faqs).

Should the farewell speech at work be formal or informal?

There are certain things that you have to avoid while writing and delivering a farewell speech. Some of them are- not to use informal and slang language for a farewell speech at work. Do not forget to show your gratitude towards your colleagues and boss. Do not keep your speech too long, it should be short and crisp. These are some of the don’ts to be kept in mind while giving a farewell speech at work.

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15 Short Farewell Speech Tips And Ideas

As someone who has been tasked with bidding farewell to friends or coworkers, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to approach the situation. But don’t worry—there are plenty of short farewell speech tips and ideas that can help you craft the perfect goodbye. 

Whether you’re speaking to a crowd or just a few friends, these tips will help make your farewell speech meaningful and memorable .

Keep it short and sweet. A farewell speech should be just a few minutes long. Be concise and get straight to the point without dragging on.

1. Focus on the Positive

2. use personal anecdotes and stories, 3. thank those who have helped you, 4. share your future plans, 5. keep it light and funny, 6. share your highlights and accomplishments from your time at the company, 7.offer words of wisdom or advice for your colleagues, 8. encourage your coworkers to stay in touch and keep in touch with you, 9. reflect on the skills and knowledge you’ve gained while working at the company, 10. express your appreciation for the support and guidance you received from your colleagues and superiors, 11. share any funny or memorable moments that you’ve experienced while working at the company, 12. be authentic, 13. have fun, 14. reminisce about any special events or projects that you were a part of, 15. end on a positive note.

A farewell speech offers a chance to celebrate the good times and memories shared. Focus on the positive aspects of your time at the company rather than any negative experiences.

Sharing personal stories makes your farewell speech more impactful. Use specific examples from your time at the company to illustrate your points, avoiding general statements.

Thank those who’ve helped you—coworkers, supervisors, or mentors. Expressing gratitude to those who supported you at the company is essential.

If you’ve got future plans, now’s a great time to share them with your colleagues. This gives you a chance to discuss what you’ll do next and offer your coworkers a sense of closure.

Use humor to lighten the mood and make your farewell speech more enjoyable for everyone. Adding a touch of levity can make your audience enjoy your speech more.

Highlight some key achievements or milestones you reached while working at the company. This demonstrates your positive impact to colleagues.

Share any insights or advice you’ve learned at the company or from your own experiences. This can help colleagues grow and succeed.

Stay connected with colleagues after leaving the company. Encourage them to do the same. This keeps relationships strong and ensures you remain in touch.

Take a moment to reflect on the skills and knowledge you gained at the company. These will benefit you in the future. Ending your speech this way can leave your colleagues with a sense of accomplishment.

Thank those who supported and guided you during your time at the company. It’s a great way to show appreciation and acknowledge their help.

Share any memorable or amusing moments from your time at the company to entertain your audience and bring a smile to their faces.

Being genuine in your farewell speech makes it more meaningful and sincere, helping you connect with your audience.

Have fun . Celebrate the end of your time at the company, and share your experiences with your colleagues.

This tip urges you to think about any notable events or projects you worked on at the company. It’s a chance to celebrate your achievements and share your experiences with colleagues.

End your speech with a positive message. Express hope for the future or gratitude for the chance to work with your colleagues. This leaves everyone with good feelings about your time at the company.

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How to Make a Farewell Speech

Last Updated: December 30, 2022 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 280,583 times.

Writing a farewell speech can seem like a daunting task. It can be hard to find the right words for your last day, whether it's your graduation, retirement, or any other occasion. You want to try to sum up your experiences, thank everyone involved, and offer wishes for the future, and do it all with grace and charm. This is a difficult task, but with some careful thought, you can write the perfect farewell speech.

Writing Your Speech

• Your outline can be as detailed as you'd like.
• Your outline should contain spaces for an opening, the body of the speech, and a tight conclusion.
• An outline doesn’t contain the complete text of the speech. It simply has bullet points and summaries of each section.

• An ice breaker might be some kind of inside joke or chant that everyone present would know about and be able to appreciate.
• If one of the anecdotes you wrote down is particularly funny or snappy, it could make a good opener as well.
• Sometimes a quote or inspirational message can work well as an opener, though you may want to save this for your closer.

• When speaking generally or summarizing, remember to, “show, don’t tell.” This means that it’s usually stronger to be specific and give details or examples, rather than generalizing.
• An example of “show, don’t tell” is saying, “On my first day of work, I noticed that half of the office stayed an extra half hour after closing time to make sure the reports were done,” instead of, “Everyone here always works extra hard.”

• You can search for great quotes online by subject. There are quotes for almost every occasion.
• If you’re particularly clever, you can end with a punchline that ties together with a joke or anecdote you told at the beginning of your speech.
• For example, if you started the speech with something like, “I’ll never forget my first day here. I thought I was doomed when I walked in the door and saw that I was twenty minute late,” you could close the speech with, “Well, I guess that’s all I have time for. Look at this. Five years later, and still running twenty minutes behind.”

Choosing What to Say

• Try writing down a narrative history of your time at this place. It doesn’t have to all be appropriate for a speech. Simply write it down to help yourself remember everything you’ve done, and to help yourself realize what has been the most meaningful to you.
• Your narrative may start with something like, “I came to work here right out of college and had never lived on my own before. I was so shy that I didn’t make any friends for nine months. Then I got that promotion a year later and formed close bonds within my new department.”
• It’s okay to write down things that were difficult. You can edit them out later. You might include something like, “I hated when we had to move to the new office.” When you edit your speech, this may turn into a funny anecdote, or maybe you’ll say something like, “Even when we had to move to the new office, I couldn’t help but notice how cheerful my colleagues managed to be in a hard time.”

• An anecdote might start out something like this: “I’ll always remember my third day of school. Spencer and I had been assigned to sit next to each other on the bus, but on the third day, my grandmother followed me onto the bus and declared she’d need to have a word with Spencer…”
• Anecdotes can be great ways to express appreciation for a specific person, or to illustrate something you appreciate about the place as a whole. For example, the above anecdote might end with something like, “...and of course, he’s never left my side since then,” or, “...which is how I knew that this school community would finally be a place that I’d feel at home.”

• Think of things you’re grateful for, or moments that helped you become who you are. Make a note of something like, “when John stood up for me freshman year,” or, “when the boss actually brought my proposal to the board and I realized that my voice mattered.”
• Think about the reasons you’re sad to go. This could be something like, “I know that a group of people who look out for each other like this is a rare thing to find,” or, “I learned so much from each person here, it will be sad to move on without everyone.”

• You can offer wishes for the group in general, such as, “Of course, next year, I’m sure you’ll all finally get to nationals without me on the team.”
• You can also offer individual good wishes, such as, “Janet, I hope you have an easy transition to being vice president; I know you’ll do great. Richard, good luck taking over the entire smoothing department.”
• You can also state hopes and wishes you have for yourself, such as, “I don’t know what’s next for me, but I certainly hope it involves people as kind as all of you.”

Delivering Your Speech

• Go over any parts that seem confusing or that don’t flow easily. Make any notes or changes that will be helpful when delivering the speech.
• Time the speech when you recite it.

• A farewell speech should usually be about five minutes long. Ten minutes is acceptable in certain circumstances. More than that should be reserved for extremely special circumstances, such as when a head of state resigns.

• Know that you may make a mistake. Be prepared for this. Don't beat yourself up if it happens. Acknowledge it and move on. You can even laugh at yourself to help put the audience at ease.
• Focus on people who seem to connect to your speech. If they're nodding, smiling, or have their eyes glued to you, focus on them. Their energy will help give you confidence.

Community Q&A

• When in doubt, keep it positive. People will keep the memory of the positive feelings for a long time after you’re gone. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• If you’re going to make jokes about others, make sure they’re clearly light hearted and couldn’t be perceived as mean. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Patrick Muñoz. Voice & Speech Coach. Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zv7fqp3/articles/z4w96v4
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffschmitt/2013/07/16/10-keys-to-writing-a-speech/?sh=3eff35264fb7
• ↑ https://finley-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/doe/sws/schools/f/finley-h/localcontent/how_to_write_a_speech.pdf
• ↑ https://www.ohlone.edu/sites/default/files/documents/imported/samplestudentnarrativespeech-outline.pdf
• ↑ https://canvas.santarosa.edu/courses/22355/assignments/92237?module_item_id=350284
• ↑ https://open.lib.umn.edu/publicspeaking/chapter/9-2-the-attention-getter-the-first-step-of-an-introduction/
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/giving-a-farewell-speech-at-work
• ↑ http://www.greatspeech.co.uk/farewell-speech-if-leaving-company.html
• ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/nikki-stone/confident-public-speaking_b_4058830.html

About This Article

Before you make your farewell speech, write an outline to organize your thoughts. Open with a joke or funny anecdote to grab the audience’s attention. The body of your speech should summarize your time there and include specific stories to express your feelings about the people and place. Conclude your speech with a quote or a punchline, depending on if you want to leave on a serious or funny note. Then, once your speech is written, practice so it will flow easily. For tips on how to give your speech confidently, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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9 Steps to Write a Farewell Message to a Colleague

Whether saying goodbye to a casual acquaintance at work or your best friend in the office, here’s how to prepare a farewell message for a coworker.

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There’s a good chance you’ve seen some turnover around the office, what with retirement or changes in family situation. Not to mention the findings in a Pew Research Center study 1 https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/03/09/majority-of-workers-who-quit-a-job-in-2021-cite-low-pay-no-opportunities-for-advancement-feeling-disrespected/ where 63% cited low pay and lack of advancement, and 57% cited feeling disrespected at work as factors causing people to leave their jobs. 

So how do you decide which people should get a farewell message, when to send it, and most importantly, what to say? 

Let’s dive in!

Why Send A Farewell Message To A Colleague?

Leaving a job can be an emotional rollercoaster—we’ve all been there. A farewell message offers some much-needed emotional support, letting your departing colleague know that they will be missed and that their time at the company was meaningful. 

It’s like a virtual hug but without the awkwardness of coordinating when to let go.

No matter what the situation—retiring, being laid off, or moving up for a promotion—your colleague is about to start something new. In many cases, it’s something they’ve never done before. 

What could be better than a little boost to their self-esteem to help them through that transition? It turns out research has found that most people underestimate the positive impact 2 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/014616722094900 their complement can have on others.

There are a variety of other reasons to send a message, including: 

• Acknowledging and showing appreciation for their contributions and achievements.
• Offering a sense of closure for both the departing colleague and the remaining team members.
• Ending their time on a positive note by reflecting on good memories and taking advantage of the recency effect 3 https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/psychology/recency-effect#:~:text=The%20recency%20effect%20is%20a,exist%20in%20a%20juror’s%20memory. , where people have a cognitive bias towards the most recent information presented.
• I wish them good luck on the new opportunity and their next phase of life. 
• Creating an opportunity to stay in touch for potential future networking opportunities and passing along non-work contact information.

And what are the occasions that justify a farewell message? There may be more than you think:

• Changing jobs or departments within the same organization. Just because they are staying with the company, a new position means new responsibilities and a new group of people to get to know. 
• Leaving for a new company
• Retirement 
• Health reasons or other extended time away—such as maternity or paternity leave. Leaving for health or family reasons can be daunting or even scary, and it’s nice to know there is someone in their corner. 

Farewell Message Template

If you need to send a farewell message right away, you can use this template below (or see our tips for how to customize it).

Dear (Name), 

It’s been so great working with you these last few years. It’s a bittersweet farewell, but I’m so excited for you, embarking on a new chapter! I’m going to miss [honest compliment of something you appreciate about them] . It may have been a small thing for you, but it really meant a lot when [something they did for you].

I hope you know how amazing you are at [specific skill] . I’m sure it’s a skill your new company is going to benefit from greatly. I’d love to hear how things are going at your new job! Feel free to reach out any time at my personal email: [email address]

You’ve been such a valuable asset here; you will make a huge impact as [their next role].

Best Wishes, 

[Your Name]

The Mechanics Of Writing A Message

Here are some tips to keep in mind as you start writing your message. 

Pick a writing style.

The way you choose to write will most likely depend on the relationship you had with the coworker who is leaving. 

• Formal: Best suited to those who only know you in a professional capacity, especially if you’re not sure what type of humor they appreciate. 
• Casual: For those friends with whom you had a more casual relationship, either in the office or who you saw socially outside office hours. 
• Humorous: This can be used to great effect if you know the type of humor they enjoy, and it can be included in any message, regardless of the style, but should always be kept appropriate. 

Keep it short 

Mark Twain famously said, “I didn’t have time to write a short letter, so I wrote a long one instead.” 

It’s tempting to start writing and then just keep going for fear of leaving something out. In many cases, though, just the fact that you cared enough to send a message will probably be what the other person remembers in the long run, not what you said. 

Many, even those who write professionally 4 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1046878120954567 , struggle to write concisely. A concise message is more about the editing process than what you write initially. 

To practice writing concisely and making it more impactful, give yourself enough time to write a draft. 

Give yourself enough time to step away from your draft and come back later with fresh eyes to check for spelling or grammar mistakes and make sure the tone is correct for the message you’d like to send. 

Keep it positive 

Not every farewell message you send will be to a coworker you loved seeing every day. And for those you will miss, it may be tempting to describe in detail how miserable you’ll be without them. 

Remember, the purpose of a farewell message is to offer support and encouragement to a colleague who is moving into a new phase of life. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind. 

• Focus on the positive. 
• Be genuine and truthful. Research shows that individuals can identify insincerity 5 https://www.jstor.org/stable/43828885 in both spoken and written forms. 
• Set aside grudges.  
• Keep the attention on the other person rather than how their departure will affect you. 

Even if someone wasn’t necessarily nice while working together at one point during time spent together as colleagues (or even friends), try not to let old grudges get in the way of saying goodbye properly.

By staying focused on the positive, you can leave a good, lasting impression, keep it professional, and allow for the possibility that conflicts from the past can be amicably set aside.  

9 Steps To Writing A Farewell Message

When it comes to how to structure a farewell message, it’s entirely possible (and, in some cases, recommended) to write an entire message in 6 sentences. Using the templates below, choose one meaningful, heartfelt sentence from each category, and then just sign your name. 

• The warm greeting

Start with a simple, friendly greeting. If you’re at a loss for something clever, start with their name or a good, old-fashioned:

• “Dear [Colleague]”

For something just a little more dynamic, try:

• “Hey there, [Colleague]!” or
• “To the Office [a flattering thing they were known for].”
• Start with a farewell.

As you offer congratulations, get the elephant out of the way. They know they are leaving, you know they are leaving, you can start just saying it.

• “Congratulations on the new role, but I’m sure going to miss you swinging by to say hi every morning on your way to get coffee!” 
• “It’s a bittersweet farewell, but I’m so excited for you, embarking on a new chapter!” 
• “Bon voyage, friend! It won’t be the same around here without your infectious energy.” 
• “It’s been great working with you these last few years.”  

It’s important to keep the message upbeat and supportive. Even if they are leaving you with a pile of work strewn about your office from their desk, now is not the time to make them feel guilty for leaving.

• Go ahead and reminisce.

If you’re taking the time to write a farewell message, you probably have some good memories of your time with them. After all, some people spend up to a third of their lives 6 https://www.freshbooks.com/hub/productivity/how-many-hours-does-the-average-person-work#:~:text=It%20has%20been%20estimated%20that,average%20hours%20per%20week%20worked. alongside their coworkers.   

Consider talking about any of the following that apply to your relationship:  

• Shared projects that were great (or not so great). If there were funny moments while working together, include those details here! It’s good practice because it shows people how much fun it was, even though things ended up going south anyway.
• Inside jokes that developed over your time together
• Their achievements and milestones that they can be proud of. 
• Memorable moments like team outings or office parties you both attended. 
• Special traditions they created or contributed to. 
• For more topic ideas, check out How to Talk With Coworkers (and Have Meaningful Conversations) . Offer sincere thanks.

Chances are, there is something your coworker has taught you during your time together. Offer sincere appreciation for the positive impact they’ve made in your life. 

• Ways they supported you

“Thanks for always going to bat for me when it came time for my annual review. I know you put a lot of work into those reports that kept getting me raises.” 

• Moments they were a mentor for you professionally or personally

“I have you to thank for my promotion. I don’t know where I’d be without your encouragement (and ruthless nagging to make sure I turned in the paperwork…) 🙂 ” 

• Kind gestures you remember, no matter how small. 

“You may not remember this, but during my first week in the office, you sent me an email with a gold star for having jumped in headlong to help host a 200-person conference. I can’t tell you how encouraging it was, especially when I felt I’d made many mistakes.”

For more ideas of compliments you can offer, check out 150 Best Positive Compliments For Praising Someone Anywhere .

• Remind them why they are amazing.

As we’ve discussed, upending one’s life to start something new can be scary and sometimes overwhelming, even when you know it’s the right thing. Give your friend a little boost to remind them of the positive, unique qualities that they are taking with them to their new phase of life. 

• “Being with you is like a happy little vacation.”
• “You’re an inspiration! I’ve always admired how you are able to talk so easily with strangers. You seem to walk into a room with strangers and out of the room with friends!” 
• “I’m going to miss your insights at kickoff meetings—your comments were often the catalyst for some of the most creative conversations. I’m sure it’s a skill your new company is going to benefit from greatly.”
• Offer to stay in contact.

In The Tipping Point , Malcolm Gladwell says, “The more acquaintances you have, the more powerful you are.” Acquaintances, to clarify, are not close friends and colleagues; they are people you know who inhabit different social circles than you do. 

In the professional world, keeping even occasional contact with acquaintances can translate directly to future opportunities. Statistics show that 85% of open job positions 7 https://financesonline.com/networking-statistics/ are filled through networking, and 60% of people have gotten a job through their network. 

So, as you are wishing your colleague all the best in their next phase of life, make sure they know how to stay in touch with you. 

• “Even though we won’t be desk neighbors, I’d still love to hear how things are going at your new job! Feel free to reach out any time at my personal email: [email address].”
• “I fully expect to keep in touch during basketball season so I can trounce you in the March Madness bracket!”
• “I know you’re going to be slammed with your new little guy, but I’d love to reach out in a few months for lunch to hear all about your new adventures in fatherhood.”
• I wish them well in future endeavors.

 To wrap up, offer your departing coworker a goodbye message specific to their next adventure. 

• “This next chapter of starting your own business is such a big step—I know you’ll rock it!”
• “You’ve been such a valuable asset here; you’re going to make a huge impact as a team lead—Sending my best wishes to you.”
• “After all these years of dedication to your career, you deserve a fantastic retirement and finally enjoy spending time with your grandkids at your cabin—without worrying about checking your emails.”
• Signoff 

Your signoff can be as simple as your name with a farewell that feels appropriate to your personality and the tone of the message:

• “Until we meet again,”
• “All the best,”
• “Wishing you well,”
• “Farewell for now,”
• “Stay in touch,”

For more ideas, look a t 51 Best Email Sign-Offs Guaranteed to Make You Stand Out .

• Follow Up 

For those colleagues you will miss and want to see, don’t forget to follow up. 

Start by writing down a goal to reach out again. Simply writing down a plan makes you 33% more likely to achieve it! Make a note or set an event in your calendar to reach out between one and three months after your coworker leaves. 

Be aware that during the first month 8 https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/starting-new-job/new-job-guide , they will be heavily involved in trying to learn their role and the dynamics of their new life. 

That one- to three-month window is where your friend is likely to be just starting to settle into daily work but may be slowing down on their learning curve 9 https://professionalleadershipinstitute.com/resources/learning-curve/ and could use some encouragement. 

Consider calling, sending an email, or texting around the one-month mark of their departure: 

• “Hey [Friend’s Name], it’s been a month! How’s the new job vibe? Let’s plan a coffee catch-up to celebrate your success!”
• “One month into the adventure—spill the beans! How’s the new job treating you?”
• “Time flies! I’m curious how you’re settling in at your new workplace. Let’s catch up soon!”
• “Have you become the office [mention a strength of theirs] pro already? I’d love to hear how it’s going at your new job.”
• “Hey, superstar! How’s your new job shaping up? Share some office tales—I’m all ears!”

What Not To Say In A Farewell Message

We’ve touched on a few of these already, but keep in mind a few things to steer clear of in your message: 

• Negative comments about your colleague’s personality or work with the company. If you can’t find anything nice to say, reconsider writing a message.
• Criticism, even constructive criticism, has no place in a farewell message. 
• Apologies. While it may seem like this is your last chance to clear the air, keep the farewell message focused on the other person and their future success. 
• Overly emotional or dramatic statements, phrases including “always” and “never,” should be reworked into something positive and realistic. 

Remember, the goal of a farewell message is to express appreciation, well-wishes, and positive sentiments. 

Keep the message respectful, professional, and focused on the colleague’s contributions and impact during their time with the team. By doing so, you can create a meaningful and uplifting farewell message that leaves a positive impression on the departing colleague and others.

How Well Should I Know Someone To Send Them a Farewell Message?

What you say and how you present it depends on the nature of the relationship you have with the colleague. A good rule of thumb is to communicate with your coworkers in the way you most commonly contacted them previously. For someone you spoke to regularly, a face-to-face conversation would be most fitting. On the other hand, when the tech person you only ever talked to via email announces their departure, a heartfelt email is sufficient.

I still remember the head of the makeup department from the first feature film I worked on. The project was only three weeks long, but on the last day, she passed out handwritten, personalized cards to each member of the crew, saying how much she enjoyed working on the project. 

Not only do I remember her better than most of the members of the crew, but I’ve also reached out several times since when I needed a make-up artist for other projects. That one card has kept us in contact professionally for years now. 

Only 2 in 10 10 https://apnews.com/article/workplace-friendships-poll-relationships-best-friends-office-faa0858e623e78c70e6f7eb02c55c7f1 US employees say they have a “best friend” at work. So what do you do about ALL your other coworkers?

Like someone from another department you only spoke to occasionally on business matters? 

Or the coworker who you met recently who will be off on extended family leave? 

A good question to ask yourself is, “Can I find something nice to say about them that they may appreciate hearing? 

If the answer is yes, send a message! 

Taking the time to send a farewell message is a great way to show that you are invested in the positive culture of your company. Over time, that type of engagement and work ethic will become obvious to your boss and team. 

Stand out from your peers and shift your career into high growth mode —  starting today.

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• 10x your effectiveness at work. Inspire people to take action.
• Prime every conversation for success (before you ever walk in the room).
• Remove the self-sabotaging social beliefs holding you back.

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We’ll cover how to deliver your message in more detail shortly!

How to Deliver A Farewell Message

Face-to-face is the most powerful method of communication and the best way to deliver a farewell message. After all, 90% of communication 11 https://online.utpb.edu/about-us/articles/communication/how-much-of-communication-is-nonverbal/#:~:text=The%2090%25%20figure%20wasn’t,%2C%20and%207%25%20words%20only. is non-verbal! It’s also the best way for your own personality to come through sincerely. 

I recently performed in a community theatre musical. Before the start of the show, the director would pick three people to highlight in the cast pre-show huddle. Even more than hearing people say nice things about me, I loved having the chance to tell my cast mates how they had made an impact in my life. 

If your coworker is the type who enjoys a good party, you can consider putting together a celebration in their honor. (Before you go all gung-ho, thinking a party is the perfect thing, consider if it’s what they really want or if you think it would be cool. In fact, check out Advanced Tips for Extroverts: How to Harness Extroversion before any party planning).

If face-to-face isn’t an option, consider retaining that same ability to communicate non-verbally by sending a video message with your good wishes. 

In a world where the average person receives 121 emails 12 https://www.campaignmonitor.com/blog/email-marketing/shocking-truth-about-how-many-emails-sent/#:~:text=At%20a%20personal%20level%2C%20DMR,of%20value%20to%20the%20recipient. per day, consider writing a handwritten note. Handwritten notes are still one of the best ways to send a heartfelt goodbye. 

Of course, if none of the other options are feasible for time or resource reasons, you can always send an email or a text. Remember, any act of kindness, no matter how small it feels, can have numerous health benefits 13 https://www.apa.org/news/apa/kindness-mental-health , including improved mood and lower stress levels. 

In addition to any of those options, you can also consider giving a gift. It could be: 

• Practical for their new phase of life.
• A sentimental reminder of your time together.
• Something lighthearted and fun that makes them smile.

Keanu Reeves 14 https://www.huffpost.com/entry/keanu-reeves-john-wick-chapter-4-stunt-performers-gift_n_6425c007e4b01284198bf7b8 is known for being a great gift-giver. Yes, he’s the one that gives his crew Rolex watches, which is cool. But he also took the time to choose a personalized message to inscribe on the back of each watch.

After filming “John Wick: Chapter 4”, Reeves presented the stunt crew with custom t-shirts featuring the number of times they were “killed.” It was a big part of the filming, and some actors performed as many as 20 death scenes. 

While having vast resources to give gifts is nice, it really is the thought that makes them special. 200+ Unique and Thoughtful Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas has oodles of ideas to get you started!

When To Send Your Farewell Message

If your colleague has given a notice period before leaving, it’s best to send the farewell message before their last day at work. Ideally, you would deliver your message in the few days before their final departure. 

This gives them some breathing room to enjoy all the heartfelt messages and sentiments without feeling rushed or overwhelmed on their final workday.

Unless you have a social relationship with your colleague outside the office, try to send a farewell message during regular working hours. Generally, 3:00-5:00 p.m. are the least productive 15 https://www.deputy.com/blog/employee-productivity-survey hours of the workday and would be a time when your colleague may especially appreciate a reason to take a break to enjoy your message. 

If it’s a physical card or a group gathering, make sure delivering it aligns with your colleague’s schedule and preferences. We don’t want to trap them in an awkward “surprise” party. 

Which raises a good point: Always remember to respect your departing colleague’s wishes. If they express a preference against a formal gathering, share your message privately. If they’ve mentioned they’re uncomfortable with hearing others talk about them in public, share your thoughts in a card or email. 

You get the idea…

Bonus: If You’re The One Leaving

What if you’re the one leaving the office? Generally, the same rules apply, but for slightly different reasons. 

• Keep the focus on your coworkers. Since you’ll no longer be seeing them on a regular basis, sending a farewell message can leave a positive final impression. 
• If you are giving notice, sending out farewell messages several days before you leave gives people some time to process the news and respond without feeling rushed. 
• If you prefer, sending a farewell on your last day is a good way to share memories and offer a final goodbye on a positive note. 
• Include a way for coworkers to contact you in the future since your business accounts will be closed eventually. 

The Art Of Saying Farewell

Saying goodbye to a coworker may be just a formality or a fundamental shift to your daily life. Either way, being able to express a concise, heartfelt farewell takes some time and preparation. Here are some things to remember as you get started.

• Occasions that justify a farewell message include changing jobs within the same organization, leaving for a new company, retirement, or health-related reasons.
• Saying goodbye to a departing colleague is essential, especially when you share a close working relationship. Express gratitude for their friendship, support, and positive impact on your professional growth.
• Farewell messages offer emotional support during the transition, boosting their self-esteem and leaving a positive, lasting impression. Reflect on shared challenges, triumphs, and memorable moments, creating a sense of closure and appreciation for their contributions.
• Knowing someone well is not a prerequisite for sending a farewell message. Suppose you can find something nice to say about them; go ahead and send a message to show your support.
• Tips for writing a farewell message: Choose a style that matches your relationship, keep it concise, stay positive, and offer genuine appreciation for its impact.
• Delivering the message can be done in person, through video, or a handwritten note, depending on your relationship and resources.
• If you’re the one leaving, consider sending farewell messages to your coworkers before your last day or on your final day, leaving a positive final impression.

Do you want to make sure your employees have great reasons to stay? Read 30 Fun Ways to Make Employees Feel Valued & Appreciated for ideas to boost employee productivity and retention!

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The best virtual farewell speech to colleagues: Ideas and templates

Rachita Jain

Context of virtual farewells in today's remote work environment

1. embracing the virtual goodbye, 2. globally distributed teams, 3. technology as an enabler, 4. incorporating creativity, 5. the emotional impact, importance of heartfelt farewell speeches to bid adieu to colleagues, 1. the emotional significance of giving a farewell speech to colleagues, 2. acknowledging individual contributions, 3. inspiring future success, 4. strengthening bonds across multiple platforms, tips to write a heartfelt goodbye speech to colleagues.

• Start your farewell speech to colleagues by expressing your gratitude towards your team, and the organization. Then, thank them for their support, mentorship, and friendship during your time toget her .
• Tell your colleagues how much you have enjoyed working with them- Highlight the positive experiences that you have shared, the mutual support, and the friendship that has developed.
• Tell your coworkers about specific anecdotes and experiences you've had. Highlight experiences that were important to you and aided your development on both a personal and professional level.
• In your farewell speech to colleagues, honor their contributions and milestones. Acknowledge the collective efforts of the staff and the individual accomplishments of colleagues.
• Recognize the contributions of specific colleagues who have made a significant impact on your career or who have been particularly supportive. Personalize your appreciation.
• When expressing your emotions, be sincere. Share your feelings, whether they are ones of sadness, nostalgia, or anticipation for the future. Your speech becomes more relatable and moving when it is authentic.
• Encourage your colleagues to stay in touch. Let your colleagues know that you're open to hearing from them in the future and that you would love to keep in touch.
• Extend your best wishes to your colleagues and the organization for continued success and show that you genuinely care about their future endeavors.
• Remember to thank the leaders of the company. Do not forget to express your gratitude to those who have been a source of support for you over the years.
• Express your excitement for the future. Share your enthusiasm about your next adventure and permit your colleagues to be as excited for you as you are.
• Conclude the speech by thanking everyone one last time for their time, support, and guidance throughout your time in the company.

Virtual farewell speech to colleagues at workplace sample- 1

Virtual farewell speech to colleagues at workplace sample- 2, tips to deliver a heartfelt goodbye speech to colleagues, 1. practice before you deliver, 2. start with a thank you, 3. make it personal, 4. keep it positive, 5. sprinkle in some humor, 6. embrace emotions, 7. value relationships, 8. individual thank you, 9. eye contact, 10. end with well wishes, other blogs you might like.

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Get ready for nasty layoffs and say goodbye to the 4-day workweek

• Economic concerns could lead to layoffs and reduced remote work opportunities in the US.
• A weaker-than-expected jobs report could give cover to CEOs who want to reconsider work policies.
• But reverting to traditional work models could harm productivity and employee morale.

What if Saturday was the new Friday ?

It's a troubling thought, to be sure, but a longer workweek is already a reality for some workers. Greece has allowed some industries to move to a 48-hour workweek to bump productivity. And South Korean companies, such as Samsung, are telling some execs to also show up on Saturday or Sunday to help boost the company's business.

Now, with economic alarm bells going off in the US, some workers pining for less time on the job may have to keep dreaming.

And that may not be the worst of it: Employees who'd hoped to stay in or land remote roles may find that harder to pull off. But perhaps the biggest threat to the rank and file is layoffs . Jittery CEOs eager to please Wall Street — and their boards — could decide to make the kind of sweeping cuts that Intel recently announced .

The weaker-than-expected July jobs report, which is spooking investors , could give some employers cover to step back from a shorter week, remote work, and other measures aimed at improving employee well-being, labor-market experts told Business Insider.

Peter Cappelli, a professor of management at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, said there was a perception that some employers had used layoffs as a cudgel to pull workers back into the office. And he said bosses could use the latest headlines about the economy as a fresh reason to get tough with workers — even if business is still doing OK.

Related stories

"It's not about the reality as much as the perception," Cappelli told BI.

He said that while many workers in recent years gained some leverage, employers had still held most of the power outside a few exceptions, such as retail workers toward the end of pandemic lockdowns.

"Employees never really had much of an upper hand in the job market," Cappelli said.

Workers could feel as if they have even less power if bosses' worries about the economy make them less charitable toward their employees.

Some big-name businesses report that inflation is pinching consumers to the point that some are cutting back on their lattes and booze.

Starbucks said last week that traffic to its shops had slumped — especially among customers who weren't regulars — and CEO Laxman Narasimhan pointed to "a challenging consumer environment." The liquor giant Diageo posted its first slide in annual sales since 2020.

It's the kind of thing that could make an employer less inclined to try something new — such as a four-day workweek.

Yet even without lackluster sales, Cappelli said, the four-day workweek was already unlikely to be widely adopted in the US.

"I don't think that ever had any chance in the US," he said. But, at the same time, Cappelli also doesn't think companies will push workers to come in on a sixth day. "That's a huge norm break."

He noted that the shift in Greece was more focused on letting workers have overtime.

CEOs' safe space

Brigid Schulte, the director of the Better Life Lab at New America and author of the forthcoming book "Over Work," told BI that when worries about the economy pop up, many leaders want to return to familiar ways of working.

"In times of uncertainty, particularly leadership wants to go back to sort of what feels like a safer time," she said. "The only irony there is that that way wasn't necessarily better."

Schulte said companies that decide to dump all of their economic problems on workers are short-sighted, noting research that shows layoffs do long-term damage to a company. And, Schulte said, longer work hours are associated with lower productivity, more burnout , and presenteeism.

Schulte said that too often, when the threat of a downturn looms, leaders see their workers as a big cost on their balance sheet.

"Taking that longer-term view is actually going to be better for people and for your business in the long run," she said.

If companies use economic worries to reverse course on efforts such as flexible work arrangements or to conduct layoffs, they put their own well-being at risk.

"You end up really damaging the trust and morale at your organization," Schulte said. "And, really, you're only as good as your people."

Watch: Nearly 50,000 tech workers have been laid off — but there's a hack to avoid layoffs

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Trump keeps losing his train of thought. Cognitive experts have theories about why

By Olivia Goldhill Aug. 7, 2024

I n a speech earlier this year, former President Trump was mocking President Biden’s ability to walk through sand when he suddenly switched to talking about the old Hollywood icon Cary Grant.

“Somebody said he [Biden] looks great in a bathing suit, right? When he was in the sand and he was having a hard time lifting his feet through the sand, because you know, sand is heavy. They figure three solid ounces per foot. But sand is a little heavy. And he’s sitting in a bathing suit. Look, at 81, do you remember Cary Grant? How good was Cary Grant, right? I don’t think Cary Grant — he was good. I don’t know what happened to movie stars today,” he said at a March rally in Georgia. Trump went on to talk about contemporary actors, Michael Jackson, and border policies before returning to the theme of how Biden looks on the beach.

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This shifting from topic to topic, with few connections — a pattern of speech called tangentiality — is one of several disjointed and occasionally incoherent verbal habits that seem to have increased in Trump’s speech in recent years, according to interviews with experts in memory, psychology, and linguistics.

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Vance Attacks Walz’s Military Record, Accusing Him of Avoiding a Tour in Iraq

Senator JD Vance of Ohio also claimed Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota had exaggerated his service record. Mr. Walz said a decision to retire and run for Congress came months before any notice of deployment.

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By Michael C. Bender and Thomas Gibbons-Neff

• Aug. 7, 2024

Senator JD Vance of Ohio accused Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota on Wednesday of quitting the Army National Guard two decades ago to avoid being deployed to Iraq and of exaggerating his service record to claim falsely that he had served in combat.

Both provocative charges amounted to some of the sharpest Republican attacks yet on the Minnesota governor, and appeared aimed at disrupting what has been a run of positive news coverage of the Democratic ticket since Vice President Kamala Harris replaced President Biden as the party’s nominee.

The accusations by Mr. Vance, who served a four-year active duty enlistment in the Marine Corps, about Mr. Walz, whose career in the national guard spanned 24 years, also served to pit the military records of the two major party’s vice-presidential candidates against each other.

Speaking at the police department in Shelby Township, Mich., on Wednesday morning, Mr. Vance said Mr. Walz had effectively deserted his fellow soldiers to avoid serving in Iraq because he retired from the National Guard in May 2005, several months before his artillery unit received orders to deploy there.

“You abandoned your unit right before they went to Iraq,” Mr. Vance said.

Mr. Vance based his accusations on a Facebook post from 2018, and a paid letter to the editor to The West Central Tribune that same year in which the writers, Thomas Behrends and Paul Herr, both retired command sergeant majors in the Minnesota National Guard, accused Mr. Walz of “conveniently retiring a year before his battalion was deployed to Iraq.”

The criticisms were first leveled by Mr. Behrends and Mr. Herr during Mr. Walz’s first campaign for governor.

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