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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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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 speeches

Farewell speeches 

How to give a great goodbye speech.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

Farewell speeches mark significant departures: getting a promotion which means leaving a long held job and a group of respected colleagues, graduating from a course of study, leaving the workforce to retire... 

To be meaningful they need to be more than a casual "see you later" and a mumbled "thanks for everything" as you dash for the door.  Or the opposite, a rambling collection of anecdotes that bore listeners silly.

In contrast, a planned farewell speech crystallizes the moment of leaving, giving it focus, form, and dignity. It provides an opportunity to publicly acknowledge people and events, as well as to graciously show your appreciation and gratitude for them.

If that's the sort of leaving speech you want to give you're in the right place. 

What's on this page?

Everything you need to prepare an excellent farewell speech, including:

• the characteristics of a great goodbye speech
• content guidelines for a farewell speech TO colleagues from a person leaving
• content guidelines for a farewell speech FROM a colleague to a person leaving
• an example farewell speech to colleagues
• a recording of the sample farewell speech to colleagues
• notes on how best to write and deliver your speech

Click the video for a complete overview.

Occasions for giving a farewell speech

Leaving a workplace.

A farewell speech is frequently expected when leaving a job to take another, particularly if people have got together at a farewell party to mark the occasion.

It is either given by the person leaving or, to the person leaving by a close colleague, often their manager or boss.

Other occasions for farewell speeches

Other occasions calling for a farewell address are graduations (leaving a school, a class...), retirements, (leaving the full time workforce), or perhaps when a long-time member of your club or neighborhood departs.

A funeral speech or eulogy is yet another form of a goodbye or farewell speech.

You can find out here how to prepare, write, deliver as well as read examples of:

• retirement speeches (including a sample farewell speech from a teacher retiring )
• funeral speeches

Return to Top

'Winging it' v being prepared in the workplace

If there's a possibility you may be called on for a farewell speech in your workplace think it through carefully. 

There is a fine line between formal and informal, prepared and unprepared (winging it) in front of a crowd. Publicly straying too far on the spontaneous and casual side of it may have a knock-on impact you have little control over.

Like for instance, being overlooked rather than being offered the opportunity to speak on behalf of your fellow colleagues and your company again. 

Consider. Plan. You will know if you're expected to give a farewell speech. 

Learn from either your own previous experience or what you've witnessed. Be it the good, the bad or the ugly!

Good communication skills, (which includes public speaking), will open more hearts, minds, and therefore doors, than any other skill you might have! 

(For more, please see  The Importance of Communication Skills in Business .)

Hallmarks of gracious farewell speeches

So having established the need to do more than bumble through, here's what you are aiming for. 

These are the characteristics of a speech an audience: your co-workers, employers, a dear colleague, classmates, a good friend, fellow club members, family members...anybody, would be delighted to hear.

• It is respectful and sincere. The speech expresses appropriate honest and genuine feelings about people, events and ideas.
• It is positive. The speech acknowledges outcomes, projects and events positively, without undue exaggeration or puffery. It concludes wishing hope and good luck for what the future holds. (If being positive is difficult be very careful about publicly passing judgement or making comments that could cause embarrassment or something far worse.)  
• It is brief. The speech is succinct and concise, minus padding or waffle. There are no prizes for rambling on and on. Three to five minutes is enough!

Content ideas for a leaver's going away speech

If it's you who is leaving and you're preparing a speech to mark the occasion, here is a list of the type of material expected, and appreciated, in a farewell speech.

• A brief summary of involvement eg. how long you've been with the company, club...
• What you have enjoyed, admired or appreciated about the work environment, job, neighborhood, club...
• The admiration and appreciation you have for the people: their qualities or their professional skills
• What you feel about leaving
• Your gratitude and thanks for support, opportunities to learn, friendship...
• Special memories: good humored anecdotes or a particularly memorable moment 
• Your reasons for leaving eg. shifting to a new city
• What, or where, you are going to
• Hopes and best wishes for those remaining

Obviously you're not expected to cover all nine points in lavish detail. Pick what feels right to you. Apply the guidelines and, prepare your speech.

A sample farewell speech to colleagues

To show you how the content suggestions and "graciousness" guidelines work together I've written a sample speech. That's below. 

The speech is 496 words long. Depending how fast or slow you speak, that will take approximately three and half minutes to deliver. (You can find out more speech rate here) 

About this speech

The speech is entirely fictional. I've written it from the point of view of a person working for a company called Smith and Black.

Here he/she, (I've not defined gender.), led a team which was involved in community initiatives. He/she is leaving to do further study.

The speech will be given at a gathering in the company staff room. 

Example of a leaver's farewell speech to colleagues

"Good morning. Thank you for coming along. I am delighted to see you all here.

Do you realize we've been sharing each other's company for 2920 days? 

That's eight years of fun times, challenging times and everything in between.

And today I am officially leaving you!

In the past some of you have questioned my sanity. Now, standing here in the midst of you good people, I'm wondering about it too!

It's bittersweet to leave a workplace you've enjoyed. I might joke about the Monday morning blues, but that's all it is – a joke.

I realize I have been very fortunate. This place, this work, and its people have meant so much to me. I am proud to have been a member of the team here.

Eight years ago you made it easy for me to feel at home. Smith and Black is a rare company. Its workplace is genuinely a mirror of its HR policy. Inclusion is more than a buzz word in a manual here. It's real! That makes it doubly difficult to leave.

Thank you for your belief in me, your support and your friendship. It's a pleasure and a privilege to have worked alongside colleagues who understand how to bring the best out in each other.

In the middle of our daily business: meeting targets, initiating projects and developing new ones, it's all too easy to lose sight of the most important element of all in any organization: the person, the people. Us. You and me, as individuals with hearts, minds, and feelings.

That we don't is what makes Smith and Black unique.

Thank you Bob for your inspired leadership. Thank you to my team: Monica, Tom and Sam for your trust in me, for your humor and all your hard work.

We've been involved in some outstanding projects together.

I'll always remember our “Feed a Friend” out-reach program and its extraordinary success. 

The “Red Balloon” initiative had lofty goals which we slaved to bring to fruition, and failed. The hard lessons learned there we deployed in our biggest success of all: the “No Child Left Behind” program. That was magical, inspirational work which will go on making the world a better place.

With so much to be grateful for: outstanding colleagues, an ethical humane company, and meaningful work, it seems perverse to leave.

However, I am!

As some of you already know, I'm going to take up an offer to further my understanding of the practical implementation of diversity policy. It's an amazing course, taught by some of my heroes in the field.

This is something I've wanted for several years and the right time to do it is now.

I am going to miss you all. You've been part of my journey for a long time.

I've already packed fond memories of fun, collaboration, consultation, and friendship into my heart to take with me. Those I'm deeply grateful for.

My wish for you is that you too are able to follow your dreams. This is not goodbye. Per courtesy of email I will never be far away!"

Listen to this farewell speech

I've made a recording so you can listen if you want. The voice you're hearing is mine, Susan Dugdale's , and I have a New Zealand accent.

Example of a farewell speech to colleagues

Content ideas for a farewell speech to a leaver

If you're expected to give a speech on behalf of your club, company... to a person leaving use the content suggestions below. 

• What you have sincerely enjoyed, admired or appreciated about the leaver's contribution to the workplace, club, neighborhood... eg. their role in XXX project, their organizational skills, the creative new ideas they brought to the role, the chocolate cake they made for special occasions...
• A story or two, a special moment to illustrate the type of person they are: their positive qualities and personality traits eg. a wonderful team player
• How their departure will impact on those left behind eg. a great loss
• Good wishes for the future
• Presentation of gift on behalf of company, if there is one to give.

More on giving a farewell speech to a leaver

If you're looking for more on preparing a goodbye speech for a co-worker, you'll find it here: How to easily write a great farewell speech for a colleague leaving.

There's a start to finish 7 step process for writing the speech, printable brainstorm and outline documents to use, plus a sample speech.  Go to: How to write a great farewell speech for a colleague leaving .

Writing and delivering your speech

The easiest way to take your content ideas and turn them into a speech is to use an outline. Click the link for a free printable fill-in-the-blanks speech outline . The speech outline covers the main points you want to make in the order you want to make them. Once you've filled it out, test by saying it out loud.

• Listen for the flow of information. Is it ordered? Does each idea link logically? Are the transitions clear?
• Is there a beginning (introduction), body (middle) and conclusion?
• Is the content, tone and language use right for the occasion and your intended audience?
• Time the speech. Is it too long? Edit if necessary.
• And say your speech to a trusted friend or colleague at least a few days before the event.  This is a safety precaution to ensure you haven't left out anything that should be in, or put in anything that shouldn't be there. If there are alterations to make, you have enough time to get them done, and practiced.

3 ways to deliver your prepared farewell speech

Choose what best suits you and the occasion.

1. Read your speech

If the situation is very emotional or  you  are very emotional this may be the safest way to get everything you want to say out.

Using your completed speech outline as a guide, write the whole speech out. Word for word.

When you print your text out be sure to use a large font so that it is easily read. Double space your lines and number your pages for the same reason.

Reading aloud well needs practice. Without it you may find yourself with an audience full of people working very hard to be tolerant!

For tips and strategies go to: How to read a speech effectively  

2. Use cue cards

Make brief summary notes on numbered (cue) cards that will serve as memory prompts to guide you from one idea to the next. These are very good if you have practiced and know your speech. They let you interact with your audience more freely than reading word for word does. The result is a more spontaneous sounding speech. Click the link to find out more about preparing and using cue cards.

3. Give your speech from memory

If you have time this could be the option to go for. The advantages are that you speak directly to your audience. Because you are not relying on notes you can use readily use gestures and make eye contact. Check here for tips and techniques on how to remember a speech.

The disadvantage could be the risk of forgetting what you wanted to say entirely through being overcome by the emotion of the occasion. However that is significantly lessened through practice.

Deliver your speech well

If you'd like to know more about how to deliver your farewell speech well check out these pages:

• How to rehearse

Manage the nerves 

If you find yourself under attack from a fit of nervous apprehension at the mere thought of giving your goodbye speech look here. Help is a click away.

• How to deal with acute public speaking anxiety
• Breathing exercises to manage stress

P.S. Please, please don't use your farewell speech as an opportunity to vent any pent up frustrations you may have, regardless of how tempting it may be. Instead focus on what was undeniably positive and sincerely highlight it. Be the bigger person.

Expert advice - a little help from our friends

Chad Dyer from  MemesBams  says:

Is the physical or emotional separation from your friend just fate? Or was the decision to leave yours, or your friend’s? Either way separating from a friend can often be emotional. In some cases ending a friendship can be as difficult as ending a romantic relationship. Harder than a breakup!

Understanding friendship breakups can help you move forward and ease your pain.  Here are some suggested ways to cope after separating from a friend: 

• Acceptance. The reason for the friendship breakup may simply be out of you and your friend’s control. Sustaining friendship, for instance, can be hard if separated by great distances. Accept you have got to walk your journey on your own and that you'll meet new friends along the way.
• Evolve. Though you may have been used to dealing with your daily struggles with your pal by your side, realize this could be the time for you to grow and become the person you want to be .
• Saying farewell to a friend and wishing them well is alright and it can help ease  the pain. You can say it’s not a total goodbye. And that you are hoping to see your friend again.  Despite the uncertainty of that, a grain of hope can do wonders to lighten the burden you're carrying.

If you need help finding the right words to express your feelings take a look at these:   Farewell Sayings for Friends .

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Speech Writing

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. Occasions for Giving a Farewell Speech
• 2. How to Start a Farewell Speech?
• 3. How to Write a Farewell Speech?
• 4. Farewell Speech At Work
• 5. Farewell Speech Examples 
• 6. Writing Tips for a Farewell Speech

Occasions for Giving a Farewell Speech

Farewell speeches are a type of speech that are delivered when someone is parting from a group, organization, or event.

They can be for retirement, leaving a job, or stepping down from a leadership role. Students often give farewell speeches during high school or college graduations. 

These speeches mark the end of an important chapter in their lives. Students may also give farewell speeches when leaving clubs, sports teams, or student councils.

These speeches allow people to express gratitude, share memories, and inspire their peers. 

So, it's important to carefully keep in mind the context for the farewell speech before you start writing one.

How to Start a Farewell Speech?

If you want to leave an impression on the audience, the key is to write a brilliant speech. A good speech can not be written without a plan. No matter if you are writing a casual speech or a very formal address, planning is essential. 

Before you jump to the writing process of a farewell speech, learn how to make a start. Only good planning will let you execute the ideas successfully and effectively. 

To make a start, follow the steps given below:

Step 1 - Identify the Audience 

Think about your audience. Who will be listening to your speech? Is it colleagues, friends, fellow classmates, family, or a mix of these? 

Consider what they might expect from your speech and what kind of tone and message would resonate with them. Your speech should be relatable to your audience.

Step 2 - Brainstorm Relevant Ideas 

Now that you know your audience, make a list of the key points you want to include in your speech. 

These could be memories, achievements, lessons learned, or well-wishes. Brainstorming these ideas will give you a clear direction for your speech.

Step 3 - Gather Stories and Anecdotes

Collect stories and anecdotes that relate to your key points. Shared stories and experiences can add a personal touch to your speech and make it more engaging. 

These stories should support your main message and create a connection with your audience.

Step 4 - 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 format for your speech. 

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 - 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 2 - 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 3 - 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 4 - 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 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 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

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 the 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. 

However, if you're feeling lost and need assistance in crafting a farewell speech, let our legit essay writing service help. Our team of experts boasts years of experience in delivering high-quality speeches. 

Just buy speech from our writers and they will undoubtedly exceed your expectations!

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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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.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

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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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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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 279,205 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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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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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 .

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Giving A Farewell Speech At Work (With Examples)

• Say Goodbye To Coworkers
• Clean Up Your Desk
• How To Ask For A Reference
• Farewell To Coworkers
• How To Resign From A Job
• Farewell Speech

Find a Job You Really Want In

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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Tips & Tricks to Prepare a Memorable Farewell Speech

Saying goodbye is an inevitable part of life's journey, a moment that often leaves an indelible mark on both the speaker and the audience. Whether bidding farewell to colleagues, friends, students, or mentors, the ability to articulate sentiments, memories, and aspirations becomes an art—a craft that requires precision and authenticity.

As we delve into the intricacies of crafting a memorable farewell speech, it's essential to recognize the power embedded in the spoken word. A well-constructed farewell speech is more than a formality; it's a poignant narrative that encapsulates shared experiences, acknowledges individual contributions, and leaves a lasting impression on those present.

How to Craft a Perfect Farewell Speech?

In the following exploration, we'll navigate the nuances of bid adieus, uncovering the art of addressing diverse audiences and blending nostalgia with humour. It's about expressing gratitude sincerely, navigating challenges gracefully, and infusing hope for the future. So, let's embark on this journey, unravelling the threads that weave a farewell speech into a tapestry of remembrance, laughter, and optimism.

1. Know Your Audience: Tailoring Your Message

Understanding the diversity of your audience is crucial. Colleagues, friends, students, and seniors all come together for a farewell. Tailor your message to resonate with this diversity, ensuring everyone feels acknowledged.

Example: As I stand here, I see faces that have shared laughter, challenges, and triumphs. Each of you holds a special place in my heart, and it's essential to tailor my words to embrace our diverse connections.

Situational Example:

If addressing colleagues: In our professional journey together, I've had the privilege of working alongside dedicated individuals who have not only been colleagues but also friends. Crafting the message to honour the professional bonds you've formed is crucial for a meaningful farewell.

2. Reflect on Shared Experiences: Nostalgia Done Right

Nostalgia is a powerful tool. Reflect on shared experiences, highlighting moments that defined your journey. These shared memories create a sense of unity and appreciation for the time spent side by side.

Example: Let's take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the time we faced that challenging project head-on or the spontaneous moments of joy that lit up our workspace. These shared experiences are the threads that weave our unique tapestry.

For a farewell speech in a student setting: From late-night study sessions to the joyous celebrations after exams, our shared experiences as students have created bonds that will last a lifetime. Let's cherish these moments as we bid adieu to this chapter of our academic journey.

3. Express Gratitude: Acknowledge Contributions

Expressing gratitude is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of those around you. Acknowledge the efforts and unique qualities of individuals, making each person feel seen and valued.

Example: I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you. Your dedication, creativity, and unwavering support have not only shaped our shared journey but have left an indelible mark on my professional and personal growth.

If addressing seniors or mentors: To my mentors and seniors, your guidance has been instrumental in shaping my career. Expressing gratitude for your wisdom and leadership is not just a formality but a sincere acknowledgement of the impact you've had on my professional development.

4. Add Humor: Balance Laughter and Sentiment

Humor adds a delightful touch. Balance sentiment with well-timed humour, sharing light-hearted anecdotes that bring smiles to faces. Laughter becomes a bridge that connects hearts even amid goodbyes.

Example: They say laughter is the best medicine, and I couldn't agree more. So, let's trade tears for laughter as we recall that hilarious incident during our team retreat. Who knew team-building activities could be so adventurous?

In a farewell party of students or colleagues: As we bid farewell, let's not forget the laughter that echoed through these halls. From inside jokes to shared pranks, our ability to find humour in the daily grind has been the glue that held us together.

5. Address Challenges: Turn Goodbyes into Opportunities

Acknowledge the challenges of saying goodbye. Addressing potential conflicts or emotional difficulties demonstrates emotional intelligence. Turn these challenges into opportunities for growth, emphasizing the positive aspects of change.

Example: Goodbyes are never easy. They come with a mix of emotions, and it's okay to feel them all. But let's view this goodbye not as an end but as a new chapter filled with opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

If addressing a diverse group of friends: In our circle of friends, goodbyes can be bittersweet. It's challenging to part ways, but let's view it as an opportunity to expand our horizons and create new connections while cherishing the bonds we've formed.

6. Share Future Endeavors: Create Hope and Excitement

Share your future plans and aspirations, infusing hope and excitement. Your enthusiasm for the future becomes infectious, inspiring confidence and optimism among your audience.

Example: As I embark on this new journey, I carry with me the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the skills honed. I'm excited about what lies ahead, and I hope you share in this anticipation of new beginnings.

In a farewell speech to colleagues: As I transition to a new professional chapter, I carry the knowledge and skills gained here with me. I'm eager to apply them in new ways, and I'm confident that our paths will cross again in the world of opportunities that awaits.

7. Close on a Poignant Note: Leave a Lasting Impression

The closing moments of your farewell speech should be poignant, leaving a lasting impression on your audience. Choose words that resonate deeply, encapsulating the essence of your time together.

Example: In closing, let me express my deepest gratitude. Our paths may diverge, but the impact you've had on my life will endure. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey, and may our paths cross again in the tapestry of life.

In a farewell speech for a retiring colleague: As you step into the realm of a well-deserved retirement, let the legacy of your contributions be a beacon of inspiration for us all. May your days ahead be filled with the joy and relaxation you've earned.

8. Dos and Don'ts: A Quick Guide for an Effective Farewell Speech

Explore practical dos and don'ts for crafting an effective farewell speech. From maintaining sincerity to avoiding common pitfalls, these guidelines will ensure your speech is impactful and well-received.

• Dos: Speak from the heart, personalize your message, and maintain a positive tone.
• Don'ts: Rush through your speech, dwell on negatives, or use language that may be misunderstood. A well-crafted farewell speech requires a delicate balance.

For a farewell speech to students:

• Dos: Inspire them with your journey, share valuable life lessons, and express genuine gratitude.
• Don'ts: Overwhelm them with advice, overlook their achievements, or dismiss the impact they've had on your growth as an educator.

9. Q&A Session: Engaging with the Audience

Encourage audience participation with a Q&A session. This interactive segment allows the audience to express their thoughts, seek clarification, and actively engage with the farewell experience.

Example: Before we wrap up, I'd love to hear from you. Any questions or thoughts you'd like to share? Let's make this farewell a dialogue, enriching the collective experience.

Situational Example: In a farewell speech to a team: Your input has always been valuable to me. As we open the floor for questions, let's engage in a meaningful conversation. Your insights are an essential part of our shared journey.

10. Personal Touch: A Unique Farewell Gesture

Consider adding a personal touch to your farewell speech. This could be a symbolic gesture, a memento, or a special acknowledgement. A thoughtful farewell gesture leaves a lasting impression.

Example: As a token of appreciation, I've prepared a small collage capturing our memorable moments together. Each picture tells a story, and I hope it serves as a reminder of the bonds we've forged.

Situational Example: For a farewell speech in a close-knit team: I've arranged a 'Memory Jar' where each of you can write a note or share a memory. This jar will travel with me, preserving the essence of our time together. Let's continue adding to it, even from afar.

Crafting a memorable farewell speech involves weaving together gratitude, humour, and a personal touch. As you bid farewell, remember that your words have the power to resonate long after you've said goodbye. Cherish the moments, embrace the change, and may your farewell be a celebration of the chapters you've written together. Here's to new beginnings, lasting friendships, and the echoes of a well-crafted farewell that transcend the confines of goodbye.

Good Bye Speech Ideas for Colleagues, Mentors & Friends

1. farewell party speech.

• Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and dear friends, today marks a momentous occasion as we gather to bid farewell. In the spirit of camaraderie, let us celebrate the incredible journey we've shared, the memories that have woven us together, and the laughter that echoes in the halls of our time together.
• As we gather for this farewell party, let's raise our glasses not just to bid adieu but to celebrate the incredible moments that have made our journey unforgettable.
• This farewell party isn't just about saying goodbye; it's a testament to the laughter, tears, and shared experiences that have shaped us into a family.
• As the music plays and the laughter echoes, let's savour this moment of togetherness and gratitude for the friendships that will endure beyond the farewell.
• Here's to the late-night adventures, the inside jokes, and the dance-floor memories that define our time together.
• As the curtains fall on this chapter, let's carry the spirit of this farewell party into the future, where new adventures and cherished memories await.
• In the symphony of farewells, let this party be a crescendo, a celebration of the unique notes each one of you brought to our collective melody.
• Cheers to the triumphs and the setbacks, to the unspoken bonds, and the shared dreams that have made this farewell party a reflection of our journey.
• May the echoes of our laughter tonight be the soundtrack to the memories we'll carry with us as we step into new beginnings.
• As the night unfolds, let's cherish the moments that make saying goodbye a little sweeter and the memories that will forever linger in our hearts.
• Here's to the farewell party – a kaleidoscope of emotions, a canvas of shared stories, and a testament to the bond that time nor distance can diminish.
• As the curtain falls on this chapter, let the echoes of our shared laughter and the warmth of our friendships linger in our hearts. Here's to the farewell party – a celebration of memories, a tribute to enduring bonds, and a reminder that though farewells are inevitable, the spirit of our shared journey lives on.

2. Farewell Speech for Students

• Dear students, esteemed faculty, and honoured guests, today is a poignant moment as we stand at the crossroads of academia and future endeavours. We gather not only to bid farewell but to celebrate the achievements, growth, and indomitable spirit that define our graduating class.
• Dear students, as we stand on the brink of farewells, let's not focus on the goodbyes but on the incredible journey that brought us to this moment.
• In your academic pursuits, you've not only gained knowledge but also forged friendships, discovered passions, and grown into resilient individuals ready to face the world.
• As you leave these halls, remember that your legacy isn't just in academic achievements but in the kindness, leadership, and indomitable spirit you brought to our institution.
• May your future be as bright as the potential we see in each one of you today. Congratulations on reaching this milestone.
• Here's to the late-night study sessions, the shared victories, and the unspoken support that defined your time here. You've made us proud.
• As you spread your wings, carry with you the values you've imbibed here – curiosity, perseverance, and the belief that you can make a difference.
• To our graduating class, your achievements have left an indelible mark on our institution. May your journey ahead be filled with purpose, success, and joy.
• As you embark on new adventures, remember that the foundation you've built here will be the stepping stone to a future of endless possibilities.
• Your time here was not just about textbooks and exams; it was about discovering your passions, building lasting friendships, and becoming the best version of yourselves.
• May the lessons you've learned here guide you to success and fulfilment in all your future endeavours. Go out and make us proud, graduates.
• To our graduates, as you step into the world beyond these halls, carry with you the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the experiences that have shaped you into the remarkable individuals you are today. May your future be as bright as the potential we see in each one of you. Congratulations on reaching this milestone!

3. Farewell Speech for Colleague in Office

• Good [morning/afternoon/evening], esteemed colleagues, and cherished guests, today is a day of mixed emotions as we bid farewell to a respected colleague. In [Colleague's Name], we've not just had a team member but a source of inspiration, support, and an embodiment of the collaborative spirit that defines our office culture.
• Today, we bid farewell to a colleague who has been more than a team member – [Colleague's Name], you've been a source of inspiration and a true friend.
• In [his/her] time here, [Colleague's Name] has not just contributed to projects; [he/she] has enriched our work culture with [his/her] positivity and collaborative spirit.
• As we say goodbye, let's not mourn the departure but celebrate the contributions [Colleague's Name] has made to our team, leaving a legacy that will endure.
• To [Colleague's Name], your dedication and hard work have set a standard for excellence. May your next chapter be as rewarding as the time spent with us.
• As [his/her] journey takes a new turn, let's express our gratitude for the camaraderie, support, and moments of shared success we've experienced together.
• In [Colleague's Name], we don't just lose a team member; we bid farewell to a mentor, a friend, and an invaluable part of our professional family.
• May the next adventure bring as much joy and success as the time spent with us. [Colleague's Name], you'll be missed, but your impact will resonate in our workplace.
• Here's to [Colleague's Name] – the colleague who turned challenges into opportunities, the one who made the workplace more than just a job, and the friend we'll always cherish.
• As you embark on new endeavours, take with you the appreciation and respect of a team that was fortunate to have you. Farewell, [Colleague's Name].
• In saying goodbye, let's not forget the lessons learned, the laughter shared, and the bonds forged. [Colleague's Name], you leave behind a legacy that will inspire us all.
• As we bid adieu to [Colleague's Name], let's not mourn the departure but celebrate the contributions that have enriched our collective journey. May [his/her] future endeavours be as rewarding as the time spent with us, and may the legacy of teamwork, creativity, and camaraderie endure.

4. Goodbye Speech for Boss

• Distinguished [morning/afternoon/evening], team members, and colleagues, today we gather to bid farewell to a leader, mentor, and friend. [Boss's Name] has been the driving force behind our achievements, the guiding light in times of uncertainty, and a cornerstone of our professional growth.
• Esteemed [morning/afternoon/evening], team members, and colleagues, today we bid farewell to a leader who has been the guiding force behind our collective success – [Boss's Name].
• Under [his/her] leadership, we've not just achieved milestones; we've cultivated a workplace culture defined by teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• As [Boss's Name] steps into a new chapter, let's express our gratitude for [his/her] vision, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
• To [Boss's Name], your leadership style – marked by empathy, strategic vision, and a dedication to the growth of each team member – has set a benchmark for us all.
• In saying goodbye, we acknowledge not just a boss but a mentor, a guide, and a friend who has shaped our professional journeys in ways we can't fully express.
• As [his/her] departure creates a void, let's also celebrate the legacy [Boss's Name] leaves behind – a legacy of success, camaraderie, and a commitment to excellence.
• May the next chapter be as fulfilling as [his/her] time with us, and may [he/she] continue to inspire and lead with the same passion and dedication.
• To [Boss's Name], you've been more than a leader – you've been a catalyst for growth, a supporter in challenges, and a beacon of inspiration for us all.
• Farewell, [Boss's Name], and thank you for not just managing us but leading us with grace, wisdom, and a genuine commitment to our collective success.
• As [his/her] journey continues, let's carry forward the values instilled by [Boss's Name] – integrity, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence.
• Farewell, [Boss's Name], and thank you for not just managing us but leading us with grace, wisdom, and a genuine commitment to our collective success. As you step into new horizons, may the values instilled and the lessons learned continue to guide us in your absence.

5. Short Goodbye Speech for Employee

• Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and friends, today is a brief but significant moment as we say goodbye to [Employee's Name], a valued member of our team. Though succinct, this farewell is filled with genuine appreciation for the time [he/she] has spent with us.
• Ladies and gentlemen, today we bid a heartfelt goodbye to [Employee's Name], a colleague whose contributions have made a lasting impact on our team.
• Though brief, [his/her] time with us has been characterized by hard work, dedication, and a positive spirit that has enriched our workplace.
• In saying goodbye, let's express our gratitude for the teamwork, creativity, and camaraderie [Employee's Name] brought to our projects.
• To [Employee's Name], your presence will be missed, but your contributions will continue to inspire us. Thank you for being a valuable part of our team.
• As [his/her] journey takes [him/her] to new horizons, let's wish [Employee's Name] success, fulfilment, and new adventures on [his/her] professional path.
• Though [his/her] time here was short, [Employee's Name] leaves behind a legacy of hard work, enthusiasm, and a positive impact on our team.
• May [his/her] future endeavours be as bright as the moments shared with us. Farewell, [Employee's Name], and best wishes for the chapters ahead.
• As we say goodbye to [Employee's Name], let's remember the teamwork, laughter, and shared successes that defined [his/her] tenure with us.
• To [Employee's Name], your contributions were far-reaching, and though your physical presence may leave, the impact you've made will endure.
• In expressing our farewell to [Employee's Name], let's also celebrate the collaborative spirit, dedication, and positivity that defined [his/her] time with us.
• In saying goodbye to [Employee's Name], let's remember the teamwork, laughter, and shared successes that defined [his/her] tenure with us. May [his/her] future endeavours be as bright as the moments shared with us, and [he/she] will always be a part of our work family.

6. Farewell Speech for Seniors

• Dear [School/College/University] community, today we gather to bid farewell to a cohort of exceptional individuals – our esteemed seniors. Your impact on our institution has been profound, and as you take your final bow, we reflect on the leadership, talent, and camaraderie that defined your time here.
• As our seniors take their final bow, let's reflect on the leadership, talent, and camaraderie that defined their time here. You've set the bar high, and we're grateful for the legacy you leave behind.
• To our seniors, you've not just been students; you've been architects of positive change, ambassadors of excellence, and role models for those who follow in your footsteps.
• In saying goodbye to our seniors, let's express our gratitude for the friendships, guidance, and moments of shared success that have enriched our academic community.
• May the journey ahead for our seniors be as promising and fulfilling as the years spent with us. You've made a lasting impact, and we wish you continued success in all your future endeavours.
• As our seniors transition to new chapters, let's acknowledge the indelible mark they've left on our institution – a mark of leadership, excellence, and a commitment to making a difference.
• To our graduating class, your achievements have been a source of pride for us all. May your future endeavours be met with the same determination, passion, and success.
• As we bid farewell to our seniors, let's not see it as a goodbye but as an 'until we meet again.' Your presence will be missed, but your influence will remain.
• In celebrating our seniors, let's also celebrate the growth, diversity, and sense of community they've brought to our academic family.
• To the seniors who have left an indelible mark on our institution, may your journey ahead be as bright as the memories you've created here. Farewell and best wishes.
• To the seniors who have left an indelible mark on our institution, may your journey ahead be as bright as the memories you've created here. Farewell and best wishes for the chapters ahead. Your achievements have been a source of pride, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

7. Retirement Farewell Speech

• Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, family, and friends, today we gather to celebrate a career that has spanned years of dedication, commitment, and unwavering service. As [Retiree's Name] steps into retirement, we reflect on the invaluable contributions that have shaped not just a career but an era.
• Under [his/her] guidance, our organization has witnessed growth, milestones, and a commitment to excellence that has defined [his/her] legacy. Today, we bid farewell to not just a colleague but a mentor, a leader, and a true inspiration.
• Throughout [his/her] tenure, [Retiree's Name] has been the cornerstone of our organization, providing wisdom, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The impact of [his/her] work extends beyond the professional realm, touching the lives of colleagues, clients, and the community at large.
• As we bid farewell to [Retiree's Name], let's not mourn the departure but celebrate the decades of service, dedication, and the positive influence [he/she] has had on our organization.
• To [Retiree's Name], your retirement is well-deserved, and as you embark on this new chapter, may it be filled with relaxation, joy, and the satisfaction of a career well spent.
• In saying goodbye to [Retiree's Name], let's express our deepest gratitude for the indelible mark [he/she] has left on our organization. May [his/her] legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
• To [Retiree's Name], your impact goes beyond the professional realm. Your kindness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on us all.
• As [his/her] colleagues, we've been fortunate to witness the dedication and passion [Retiree's Name] brought to [his/her] work. May retirement bring new adventures and the fulfilment [he/she] deserves.
• Farewell, [Retiree's Name], and thank you for not just a career but for the mentorship, guidance, and positive energy you've shared with us throughout the years.
• Farewell, [Retiree's Name], and thank you for not just a career but for the mentorship, guidance, and positive energy you've shared with us throughout the years. May your retirement be filled with relaxation, joy, and the satisfaction of a career well spent in shaping future generations.

8. Farewell Speech for Teacher by Student

• Respected teachers, fellow students, and honoured guests, today is a poignant moment as we bid farewell to a mentor, guide, and friend. [Teacher's Name] has been more than just an educator; [he/she] has been a beacon of knowledge and inspiration, shaping the minds and hearts of countless students.
• In [his/her] classroom, learning wasn't confined to textbooks; it was an immersive experience that fueled our curiosity and passion for knowledge.
• Through [his/her] guidance, we not only gained academic insights but also learned invaluable life lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.
• As [Teacher's Name] takes a step into a new chapter, we carry with us the wisdom, encouragement, and inspiration that [he/she] has generously shared.
• In saying farewell, let's express our gratitude for [his/her] tireless dedication to fostering a love for learning and the growth of each student.
• To [Teacher's Name], your impact reaches far beyond the subjects taught; it resonates in the character, aspirations, and achievements of your students.
• May the next phase of [Teacher's Name]'s journey be as fulfilling and inspiring as the countless lessons taught and the positive influence shared with students.
• In saying goodbye to [Teacher's Name], we acknowledge not just an educator but a mentor who has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of countless individuals.
• To [Teacher's Name], your commitment to education has been a guiding light for us all. May retirement bring new adventures and the joy [he/she] deserves.
• As we bid farewell, let's celebrate [Teacher's Name]'s legacy – one of dedication, knowledge, and a profound impact on the lives of students.

9. Short Farewell Speech for Students by Teacher

• Dear students, faculty, and respected guests, today is a brief but significant moment as we say farewell to a group of students who have added vibrancy, enthusiasm, and immense talent to our academic community. As their teacher, it is an honour to share a few words on this occasion.
• In your time here, you've exemplified the qualities of curiosity, resilience, and a thirst for knowledge that make teaching a truly rewarding profession.
• Each one of you has brought a unique perspective to our classrooms, creating an environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and a love for learning.
• Though brief, our time together has been impactful, and I'm confident that you carry with you the tools and insights to succeed in your future endeavours.
• To my students, as you step into the next phase of your academic journey, know that the doors of learning are always open. May you continue to explore, grow, and embrace the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
• In saying goodbye, let's not forget the laughter shared, the lessons learned, and the unique contributions each student has made to our academic community.
• May the knowledge gained here be the foundation for your future success, and may your passion for learning continue to fuel your aspirations.
• As we bid farewell to these students, let's celebrate the growth, achievements, and collective spirit that has defined their time in our academic family.
• To my students, your presence has been a source of joy and inspiration. Best of luck on your journey ahead, and may success follow you in all your endeavours.
• As we say goodbye, let's express gratitude for the memories created and the shared experiences that have enriched our academic community. Farewell, students!
• As we bid farewell to these students, let's celebrate the growth, achievements, and collective spirit that has defined their time in our academic family. Your presence has been a source of joy and inspiration. Best of luck on your journey ahead, and may success follow you in all your endeavours.

10. Farewell Speech for Friends

• Dear friends, family, and esteemed guests, today is a day of both celebration and melancholy as we gather to bid farewell to a cherished group of friends. The bonds we share go beyond mere friendships; they are the threads that have woven the fabric of our lives together.
• From late-night adventures to shared laughter, our friendship has been a source of joy, support, and countless unforgettable moments.
• In each other, we've found confidantes, partners in crime, and a chosen family that has made every experience richer and more meaningful.
• As we bid farewell, let us not dwell on the goodbyes but instead celebrate the incredible journey we've had together. The memories we've created will forever be etched in our hearts, and the friendships we've forged will withstand the passage of time.
• To my friends, your presence has been a source of strength, laughter, and unwavering support. May the bonds we've built continue to grow, even if miles apart.
• As we say goodbye, let's cherish the shared triumphs, the comforting embraces, and the understanding that comes with true friendship.
• May the paths we take lead to new adventures, but may our friendships remain a constant source of joy and support.
• In celebrating our friends, let's express gratitude for the shared laughter, the moments of vulnerability, and the understanding that has defined our friendships.
• To my friends, though the physical distance may increase, the memories we've created will always keep us close at heart. Farewell and until we meet again.
• As we bid adieu, let's not see it as a goodbye but as a 'see you later,' for the friendships we've forged are timeless and enduring.
• As we say goodbye, let's express gratitude for the memories created and the shared experiences that have enriched our academic community. Farewell, and until we meet again. Let's not see it as a goodbye but as a 'see you later,' for the friendships we've forged are timeless and enduring.

11. Funny Goodbye Speech for Departing Friend

• Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and of course, the star of the hour – [Friend's Name], today is a day tinged with humour, nostalgia, and a touch of bittersweet sentiment. As we say goodbye to our dear friend, we do so with laughter, anecdotes, and a whole lot of fondness.
• Who would have thought that [Friend's Name] would be leaving us to pursue a career as a professional tightrope walker? We always knew you had a flair for balancing the fine line between chaos and hilarity.
• As we bid farewell to [Friend's Name], we also say goodbye to the days of office pranks, spontaneous dance parties, and the questionable fashion choices that only [he/she] could pull off with such finesse.
• Our friend, [Friend's Name], is not just leaving; [he/she] is graduating to a new level of adulthood – one where the fridge is stocked with more than just energy drinks and leftovers from last week.
• In the spirit of bidding adieu, let's remember the times [Friend's Name] convinced us that wearing socks with sandals was the next big fashion trend. You truly are a trendsetter, my friend.
• As we say goodbye to [Friend's Name], let's not forget the epic tales of misadventures, the inside jokes, and the infectious laughter that defined our time together.
• Who else will be the mastermind behind our elaborate office pranks now that [Friend's Name] is leaving? Your legacy of hilarity will be tough to surpass, my friend.
• As we bid farewell to [Friend's Name], let's also thank [him/her] for the laughter therapy sessions, the comic relief during stressful times, and the undeniable talent for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.
• To our departing friend, may your new endeavours be as entertaining and unforgettable as the countless moments you've gifted us with. Farewell, and may your comedic genius shine wherever you go.
• In saying goodbye, let's not shed tears but share laughs, for the departure of [Friend's Name] is not an end but a new chapter in the comedy of life. Break a leg, my friend – metaphorically, of course!

12. Farewell Speech for Principal Sir/Mam

• Esteemed faculty, students, parents, and honoured guests, today marks a significant moment in the history of our institution as we bid farewell to a leader, visionary, and the heart and soul of our academic community – our beloved principal, [Principal's Name].
• Under [his/her] leadership, our school has flourished, not just academically but as a nurturing space that fosters growth, values, and a commitment to excellence.
• As [Principal's Name] steps down from the helm, we reflect on the indelible impact [he/she] has had on shaping the minds and characters of countless students.
• To [Principal's Name], your legacy is not just in the bricks and mortar of this institution but in the lives transformed, the aspirations kindled, and the pursuit of knowledge instilled in each student.
• In saying goodbye to [Principal's Name], let's express our deepest gratitude for the unwavering dedication, passion, and love for education that [he/she] has brought to our school.
• May [Principal's Name]'s retirement be filled with the same inspiration, joy, and fulfilment that [he/she] has shared with our academic community.
• As we bid farewell to [Principal's Name], let's not mourn the departure but celebrate the chapters of growth, success, and unity that [he/she] has authored for our institution.
• To our principal, your leadership has been a guiding light, and your impact will continue to resonate in the halls of this school and the hearts of those you've touched.
• Farewell, [Principal's Name], and thank you for not just leading us but inspiring us to reach for the stars. Your influence will endure in the achievements of every student who passes through these corridors.
• As we say goodbye, let's also welcome the new chapter for our principal – one filled with relaxation, exploration, and the satisfaction of a career well spent in shaping future generations. Your influence will endure in the achievements of every student who passes through these corridors.

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How To Give A Memorable Farewell Speech

It’s your last day on the job. Your colleagues have gathered in a conference room, gotten you a few nice going away gifts, and purchased a cake in your honor.

Suddenly, your co-workers begin chanting: Speech! Speech! Speech! 

Your adrenaline surges, your heart begins pounding. Oh no! A goodbye speech! If you’re like most people, you’ll mutter something like this:

“Okay, well, I wasn’t expecting to say anything, but, well, I guess what I’d like to say is that it’s been an amazing eight years here. You’re all an amazing team, you’re like a second family, and we’ve really been through some ups and downs together … okay, a lot of downs together. But I will really miss you, although this isn’t really goodbye, because I’m going to stay in touch with all of you…whether you like it or not!”

I’ve been guilty of giving that bland farewell speech as well. In 1999, for example, when I left ABC News’ Nightline, at the time one of the most prominent evening news programs, the staff gathered in a conference room to send me off. Ted Koppel, the host of the program was there, as were the executive producer, all of the senior producers, on-air correspondents, and others. Frankly, I was overwhelmed that so many important people thought enough of me to have gathered in my honor. I made it through a few sentences, got emotional, and abruptly ended my farewell speech.

Tips for Your Best Farewell Speech

There’s no specific formula for how to give a great goodbye speech to colleagues at work, but here are some tips on how to deliver your best farewell speech.

Tell a story or two. Stick to anecdotes that are humorous and self-effacing, as well as heartfelt. Don’t be afraid to offer some details of your personal biography – particularly an episode that captures a universal human experience or condition. Reveal gratitude or offer thanks. Share with your colleagues how they helped you to do your job better, allowed you to grow as a person, and/or helped you to understand something about yourself. Keep it short and sweet. Strip your stories and remarks to their most essential details. It will help you to pack a lot of content – and offer a meaningful message – in  a short amount of time. Make it original. When you focus on personal anecdotes and revelations, you deliver a farewell speech that is unique to you and far from trite.

Example Goodbye Speech to Colleagues

As I look back at my farewell speech to my colleagues, I wish I could do it over again. If I could, my goodbye speech would have looked more like this:

“Most people are nervous to meet Ted Koppel. I know I was. When I finally worked up the nerve to say hello, I confidently stuck out my hand and introduced myself. I then promptly took a step forward and caught my foot on an open file cabinet drawer, which sent me plummeting to the ground. (pause) It took me a good two weeks to get past that humiliation. When I did, I quickly learned that this was a place that offered endless opportunities to a young staffer, far more than I had earned. You were open to my story ideas, welcomed me into edit rooms, sent me on video shoots, and gave me the opportunity to make some very public mistakes. People know Nightline is a great show, but they probably don’t know how great its staff is at making a young, aspiring journalist feel like a fully initiated part of the team. My mother tells me that my grandfather never missed a Nightline . He died in 1982, when I was nine years old and when Nightline was only two. To this day, every night when I hear that opening theme music, I think of him, and how proud he would have been to know that his grandson worked here, with all of you. Thank you.”

As you can see, this version is humorous, heartfelt and reveals a bit about who I am . How I start this farewell speech is with a funny story and then I move to a serious point – a thank you for not making an inexperienced staffer feel so inexperienced. I keep the remarks purposefully short but pack a lot of content into the 90 seconds it takes to deliver. And, it’s entirely original. No one else could deliver these remarks, because no one else has had all of these specific experiences.

Get Help Planning Your Goodbye Speech

When giving a goodbye speech to your colleagues at work, it’s important to keep it personal and professional. In our custom public speaking workshops , we delve deeper into these public speaking tips and techniques, as well as others, to deliver effective and memorable presentations and speeches that are both.

Forearmed is forewarned, as they say. Your colleagues’ call to deliver a farewell speech may be impromptu, but that doesn’t mean you should feel unprepared.

The next time you leave a job, challenge yourself. Deliver a goodbye speech that will be remembered long after you finish your slice of goodbye cake.

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Comments (13)

When I left the newsroom where I’d worked for six years, the people in my department threw a party for me. It’s one of my deepest regrets that I didn’t speak in any sort of official way! I was too emotional and didn’t feel I could say anything without breaking down. I won’t ever make that mistake again. Thanks for providing such a great template!!

Lovely piece & some great advice, thanks for sharing!

Thank you so much, Heather! I have fond memories of my days with Nightline, and hope that came through in the piece. Thanks for commenting, Brad

Thank you for sharing this. In a few weeks, I will be leaving a firm where I’ve spent the past 15 years. This provides the framework to prepare my thoughts for both an email farewell message as well as a “speech” to co-workers on my last day.

Patrick, I’m delighted to hear that this post was useful to you. Congratulations on your 15 years of service to your firm, and best wishes in your future endeavors. Best, Brad

I made the same mistake as Daphine. I think about it often. I widh i would have read this back then.

Great advice, wish I’d read it before I left my first job. I was much loved and so popular that the whole building arranged a surprise party for me. My boss presented me with a cake and flowers and a gift and said such lovely things about me that, when everyone called for a speech, I became so nervous and panicked and punched my boss to the ground. Never will I be caught out like that again!

When I left my post as a director and scriptwriter of a daily radio show I knew I could not deliver a speech, so I did not. I wrote it down and send it to each work mate, and to my bosses. I made it in the same wording an extension of one of our editorial pieces, and the top brass decided to air it the day next to my departure. I was overwhelmed. Many thanks for sharing your moments.

Your speech was nice only that am still a student preparing a send-off speech as an assignment.

Thank you so much your speech is very impressive I have leant a lot in it, I am leaving my current position sooner.. by Fikile Mkhanyiswa

Well written one

Thanks for sharing your valuable compose regarding good-bye Speech on last day of job. This will help me a lot to prepare my speech which would deliver few months later. Thanks again Mr. Phillips….

Thank you very much for such an insightful template; Im only left with one month at work, so I have been nevous for what to say during farewell day; but now I know how I will construct the speech

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If you’re moving on to better opportunities at work or stepping into a new chapter in life, a brief farewell speech can leave a lasting connection with everyone involved.

To make a farewell speech memorable for your team, focus on creating a special tone with a mix of nostalgia, humor, and optimism. The structure is vital, too. Begin with a captivating start, share stories in the main part that highlight the strong bonds within the team, and wrap it up with an inspiring closing line. Sprinkle in some inside jokes to keep it light, express genuine appreciation for those who played a role in the journey, and convey confidence in a successful future.

In other words, aim for all the laughs, tears, and warmth of the best short farewell message or goodbye speech you’ve witnessed…then dial it to 11! This guide covers tips to help you do just that. Learn how to resonate with the perfect balance of humor, inspiration, and expressions of gratitude for any farewell occasion.

Key Elements of a Farewell Speech

Giving a short staff farewell speech is an art. The best ones stir up laughter, tears, and warmth by including certain key ingredients:

Tone: Nostalgic, reflective, optimistic for the future

Aim for sincerity by getting nostalgic about fond memories. For example, “I’ll never forget the late nights we pulled to meet deadlines” or “Alex, your pep talks gave me courage before every presentation.” Be reflective about obstacles overcome and lessons learned. Finally, express confidence and positivity about colleagues’ future opportunities. This uplifts the audience.

For example, “I’ll never forget the creative ways we problem-solved production snafus…” sets a warm, positive tone.

Also Read: How To Write an Interview Confirmation Email

Structure: Opening, body, ending

When saying goodbye , keep it short and sweet. Start with something interesting or a question to catch attention. Then, in the main part, thank important people and teams and celebrate achievements. End by sharing lessons learned and looking forward to the future with optimism.

Anecdotes: Lighthearted stories about your time together

Include funny personal stories, inside jokes, or touching memories that highlight relationships with colleagues. Rather than just thanking the marketing team, share that time they rebranded products overnight after a last-minute executive switch-up.

Specific moments make your short farewell speech more vivid, genuine, and emotionally resonant. For instance, “Priya always made Mondays better with her cheesecakes for employee birthdays.”

Appreciation and thanks

Recognize specific people for the value they added with stories and examples. From senior leaders to receptionists, sincerely thank those who made a difference behind the scenes. This leaves everyone feeling seen and valued.

For example, “To my successor Ramesh – congratulations! With your capabilities, I feel very hopeful for the future direction.”

Delivering a farewell day speech in English allows for the expression of gratitude, recognition of achievements, and the opportunity to convey well-wishes for the future endeavors of departing colleagues or classmates.

Read More: How To Write an Unforgettable Farewell Message

Speech Template

Here’s a general template you can adapt to give a memorable and touching farewell speech:

Grab Attention Upfront

Start strong with a compelling farewell message to a coworker, a rhetorical question, joke, inspirational quote, or poignant memory. This pulls the audience in emotionally. For example:

• “I’ll never forget the creative ways we problem-solved production snafus…”
• “Isha’s sage advice in my early days was a lifeline…”
• “Who knew that baby shower food fight would spark a tradition…”

Describe Fond Memories and Milestones

Share funny anecdotes, accomplishments, and inside stories that capture relationships formed with colleagues over time in your farewell speech to coworkers. Highlight significant milestones reached through teamwork . For example:

• “Priya always made Monday meetings better with her baked goodies… I’ll miss her creative cheesecakes announcing employee birthdays.”
• “Rajesh’s willingness to roll up his sleeves was crucial when pulling that all-nighter to meet the Vision Corp deadline.”
• “Swathi, thanks for the pep talks before every big presentation – your confidence in me meant more than you’ll ever know.”

Related: Best GoodBye Email Examples That You Can Send to Coworkers

Express Appreciation and Best Wishes

Saying goodbye to a valued member of our team is never easy, but with a farewell speech for colleague, you can make it right. Recognize specific people with tailored messages expressing what you value about working together. Wish colleagues and your successor continued growth and success. For example:

• “Sahil, your mentorship and friendship are invaluable – please keep nurturing rising talent.”
• “Nikhil, your dedication behind the scenes kept operations humming – enjoy your well-deserved vacation!”
• “To my successor Ramesh – congratulations! With your capabilities, I feel very hopeful for the department’s future direction.”

Conclude on an Uplifting Note

Share your confidence and optimism surrounding the future of colleagues and your own next steps. Rally everyone around exciting opportunities ahead . For example:

• “With the strong foundations we’ve built, I see only great things on the horizon that will make us all proud.”
• “I’ll cherish the lessons learned and friendships gained here as I pursue new professional challenges.”

Memorable Closing Lines

Impactful short farewell speech often wrap up with inspirational final thoughts or quotes. Some examples of memorable closings from famous farewell speeches:

• “This is not an end, but a beginning” – Martin Luther King Jr. (hopeful)
• “We did not change as we grew older – we just became more clearly ourselves” – Lynn Hall (nostalgic)
• “Every farewell combines a hint of sadness with the expectation of the next meeting” – Robert Peacock (bittersweet)
• “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened” – Dr. Seuss (uplifting)
• “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard” – A.A. Milne (heartfelt)
• “Goodbye middle school – I can finally stop pretending I like you” – Anonymous (humorous)
• “We all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere” – Tim McGraw (poignant)
• “Funny how goodbyes are always the easiest words to say and the hardest to explain” – Anonymous (reflective)
• “This is the end…my only friend, the end” – The Doors (dramatic)
• “Well, this is it. I’m finally free of this mess. Good luck, suckers!” – Anonymous (snarky)

Pick a closing line tone that matches the vibe of your farewell situation and the message you want to leave with colleagues. Tailor it to uplift and inspire around new beginnings post-goodbye!

Related: Thoughtful Retirement Wishes Samples and Farewell Messages for Colleagues

Sample Closing Lines: 

• As I start on new journeys, the wonderful memories we have will be kept warmly in my heart for when I want to remember and smile.
• Even when life takes us on surprising paths, the connections we made staying up late to meet deadlines and playing jokes in the office will connect us for many years ahead.
• When we say goodbye it makes us feel sad, but being this upset proves how much happiness we shared while spending time together.
• This farewell is not a final stop, but rather a stepping stone that propels us forward to bravely accept the thrilling uncertainties of life.
• You are more than work friends to me; you’re like my family. I eagerly anticipate our lively get-togethers and festivities in the upcoming years.
• The warmth from our team, similar to rays of sun coming through clouds, will encourage me during future difficulties and make me think of the good times that are yet to come.
• Having achieved successes and gained knowledge, I perceive continuous growth, potential, and clear skies in the future for all of us who are paving new paths.
• As we write the next parts of our lives, I wish that a small thing or even a humorous incident will bring back happy memories of the wonderful times we shared.
• Words fail to express the depth of value I carry from our time spent together. Be aware that my world has been greatly improved because of it.

Also Read: How to Write an Effective Formal Email

Practice Tips

With a short farewell message in hand, finesse the final delivery:

• Read Aloud: Get a sense of timing and catch clumsy wording. Edit areas that feel awkward or long-winded.
• Time Carefully: Keep a farewell message for team members for 5-10 minutes max, or attention wanders. Better to leave desiring a little more.
• Record Yourself: Seeing impacts differently than hearing. Watch the video to refine body language and address any nervous tics. The more comfortable you seem, the more audience members relax and connect.
• Farewell day speech in English: Giving a speech in English would be a better choice than speaking in another language.

Crafting a brief goodbye note is both an artistic skill and a precious talent. When executed properly, it holds deep significance for both the person who writes it and those who receive it. A proper goodbye speech to colleagues expresses nostalgia for the past and optimism for the future. It has nice tales about the friendships made, and sincere thanks to those who influenced your time there. Learn these elements well from the first sentence to the last, and your words will surely create a feeling of warmth, friendship, and motivation.

FAQs  on Memorable Farewell Speech

Q1. what are some examples of a short farewell message.

A1. Example short farewell messages: “It was really nice to work with you! Keep in touch.” “I hope you find success in your new journeys.” “May you be happy in whatever place life leads you to afterwards.” Keep them brief but personalized when saying goodbye.

Q2. What should I include in a farewell message for a team member?

A2. Talk about certain moments, private humorous stories, or the good characteristics you admire in your colleague. Give your gratitude and best hopes for their next achievements. Share how your team or company won’t be quite the same without them.

Q3. How do I give the best farewell speech to colleagues?

A3. When you write your farewell party speech, start with old memories that bring smiles, then thank those who mattered a lot and end by sharing positive thoughts about what’s coming. Mix in some jokes with sincere feelings. End your speech with a touching quote or some words from the heart that inspire and raise spirits. Rehearse to achieve a fluent, self-assured presentation.

Q4. What should a farewell message say when writing to a coworker?

A4. The best farewell speech will describe a private joke or memory that highlights your connection. Talk about particular instances when working together was enjoyable, and explain what those experiences taught you. Express well wishes and keep communication open for future advice or coffee catch-ups.

Q5. What’s a good example of a short farewell speech for college graduates?

A5. For a short farewell speech, begin by recalling fond memories from university days or amusing incidents that happened in the dormitory. Express gratitude for the teachers and the bonds of friendship formed. End by expressing your trust in overcoming upcoming challenges, strengthened by the experiences and relationships built. Connect past learnings with a hopeful outlook for what lies ahead.

Q6. What are some examples of a farewell email to colleagues?

A6. Briefly recount meaningful moments working together. Thank specific people for their guidance. Tell them that you believe that wonderful chances are coming for your colleagues because of the skills you have sharpened as a team. Say that you are ready to assist during the changes that lie ahead.

Q7. What elements make a good farewell speech for an office colleague?

A7. Tell about amusing moments that show what your office is like. Value everyone who helps make working there unique. Offer sincere well wishes to those staying and departing for their next adventures.

Q8. What are some ideas for giving a lighthearted, funny farewell speech?

A8. Share funny tales about the friendships made with unique colleagues. Lightly tease about stuff you will not regret, such as morning meetings that start too early. Recall the funny times at work to create smiles and fond memories. Add jokes but keep the mood upbeat.

Q9. How can I make my farewell day speech lively and engaging for my English class?

A9. Add some student slang and funny nicknames for the amazing teachers and staff. Share some funny stories from school and inside jokes. Thank those who made your school journey special. Wrap it up with some cheerful words to lift the spirits of your fellow graduates!

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Use this sample of a free farewell speech for the person doing the leaving!

A bonus farewell speech by Queen Elizabeth I is provided, illustrating how little the expression of "goodbye" has changed over centuries. The Queen's example includes the three essential parts of a good farewell address.

At one time or another, most of us get to a point where we need to bid others goodbye, but it's not always easy to come up with the right words.

It's especially important to have something meaningful to say if a memorable event has been arranged to mark your departure, such as a farewell party thrown by co-workers, or even friends and family if you're moving away from home.

Whatever the circumstances are for your leave-taking, this sample farewell speech can serve as a guide! Customize it to make it a personal, heartfelt expression of your own.

If you prefer to learn the art of writing a farewell speech, visit our comprehensive guide. 

Text of the Farewell Speech Example

Beginning of sample farewell speech.

I am leaving here today with a wealth of knowledge I will always treasure. Working here has been a fantastic learning experience, and I am thankful for the skills I've acquired. I feel as if being here with you all each day has made me a more complete and well-rounded person.

I've learned how to take direction, criticism, and compliments. These are three things I wasn't so great at taking before, and now I feel as though I can apply that in many different situations.

I've also learned to be open-minded, to value other people's opinions and to consider other ideas along with mine, to end up with a great final result.

Body of Farewell Speech

Being part of a team has taught me skills that I can use in more than just the professional area of my life. My relationships on a personal level are in a better place than they were, thanks to some of the things I've learned from many of you.

I've come to realize that being a part of a community is more than just sharing credit. A team effort takes compromise. When you are on a team you have to at times lead, follow, and more often than not, meet in the middle.

Realizing that my marriage is also a team effort is what is prompting this bittersweet change for me.

When my spouse received the opportunity to relocate, it was up to me to compromise and agree to move our family across the country for her to fulfill her dreams. If I could stay here forever, I would, but this is an opportunity for her that can't be passed up. As her partner and teammate, it would be selfish of me to ask her to turn it down.

My wish for everyone here is that you all continue to experience success, to feel fulfilled in all you do, and to have nothing but pleasant results with each completed project! While that may be an overly optimistic wish, it is sincere.

It's been a pleasure working here, and I will genuinely miss it. I take with me fond memories, valuable skills, and I hope to one day leave an impression on others similar to the one you have left on me.

Ending of a Farewell Speech

Thank you for this farewell party, and I look forward to hearing of your future successes.

To summarize how to give a farewell speech:

When giving a farewell speech try to keep the tone of it positive and sincere. It may be a little difficult to do if you didn't enjoy your job quite as much as you'd have everyone believe, but do your best to find as many positive thing points as you can and leave everyone with fond memories of you!

Saying goodbye is never easy, but with a little planning and practice, you can bid everyone a fond adieu with style.

Farewell Speeches - Not Changed Much in 500 Years

Following is a lightly revised version of the farewell speech of Queen Elizabeth I of England 1 delivered on November 30, 1601. The Queen spoke to 141 members of the House of Commons.

Notice the structure moves from appreciation , to discussion of oneself and reflection , to a solemn remembrance . Farewell speeches have not changed much in 500 years!

Appreciation

Mr. Speaker,

We have heard your declaration and perceived your care of our estate. I do assure you no prince loves his subjects better, or whose love can countervail our love. There is no jewel, be it of never so rich a price, which I set before this jewel: I mean your love. For I do esteem it more than any treasure or riches; for that, we know how to prize, but love and thanks I count invaluable. And, though God hath raised me high, yet this I count the glory of my Crown, that I have reigned with your loves.

 Your appreciation makes me that I do not so much rejoice that God hath made me a Queen, as a Queen over so thankful a people. Therefore, I wish nothing more than to content the subject and that is a duty which I owe. Neither do I desire to live longer days than I may see your prosperity and that is my only desire. And, as I am the person God has delivered you, I trust by the mighty power of God that I shall be his instrument to preserve you from every peril, dishonor, shame, tyranny, and oppression. God will preserve you partly using your intended help which we accept because it manifests the largeness of your love and loyalty to your sovereign.

The body of the Queen's farewell speech discusses her reign and reflects on the most important events and lessons.

Of myself, I must say this: I never was any greedy, scraping grasper, nor a strait fast-holding Prince, nor yet a waster. I never set my heart on any worldly goods. What you bestow on me, I will not hoard, but receive it to give you again. Therefore render unto them I beseech you, Mr. Speaker, such thanks as you imagine my heart yieldeth, but my tongue cannot express. Mr. Speaker, I would wish you and the rest to stand up for I shall otherwise trouble you with a long speech. Mr. Speaker, you give me thanks, but I have greater cause to give you thanks, than you to me. I charge you to thank them of the Lower House from me. For had I not received knowledge from you, I might have fallen into error, only for lack of accurate information.

Since I was Queen, I never put my pen to any grant, but that upon pretext and semblance made unto me that the ordinance was both good and beneficial to the subject in general. My ancient servants deserved profit and wellness at my hands. If found to the contrary by experience, I am exceedingly beholden to such persons and moved by them. And I am not so simple to suppose but that there be some of the Lower House whom these grievances never touched. I think they spake out of zeal to their countries and not out of spleen or malevolent affection as being parties grieved. That my grants should cause grief to my people or oppression, our kingly dignity shall not suffer it. Yes, when I heard it, I could give no rest unto my thoughts until I had reformed it. Shall they, think you, escape unpunished that have oppressed you, disrespected their duty, or disregarded our honor? No, I assure you, Mr. Speaker, were it not more for conscience' sake than for any glory or increase of love that I desire, these errors, troubles, vexations, and oppressions done by these rascals and lewd persons not worthy of the name of subjects should not escape without fitting punishment. But, I perceive they dealt with me like physicians who, ministering a drug, make it more acceptable by giving it an excellent aromatic savor, or when they give pills do gild them all over.

I have ever worked to set the Last Judgement Day before mine eyes and so to rule as I shall be judged to answer before a higher judge. If I abused kingly bounties or my grants hurt my people contrary to my will and meaning, I hope God will not blame myself for the offenses. If an authority under me perverted what I have committed to them, I also pray God will not lay their actions in my charge. The title of a King is excellent. However, the glory of royal authority has not dazzled my eyes. We know and remember that we are to yield an account of our actions before the great judge. To be a king and wear a crown is a thing more glorious to them that see it than it is pleasant to them that bear it. For myself, I was never so much enticed with the distinguished name of a King or royal authority of a Queen as delighted that God made me his instrument to maintain his truth and glory and to defend his kingdom as I said from peril, dishonor, tyranny, and oppression. A Queen will never sit in my seat with more zeal to my country, care to my subjects, and concern for your good and safety. I desire to live or reign no longer than my life and reign shall be for your welfare. Though you had, and may have, princes more mighty and wise sitting in this seat, you never had nor shall have, any that will be more careful and loving.

Request for Remembrance

For I, oh Lord, what am I, whom practices and perils past should not fear? Or what can I do? That I should speak for any glory, God forbid. And I pray to you Mr. Comptroller, Mr. Secretary, and you of my Council, that before these gentlemen go into their countries, you bring them all to kiss my hand.

Elizabeth I's Farewell Speech. (n.d.). Retrieved from Wikisource .

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Farewell Party Speeches

Farewell parties are bittersweet, aren't they? Whether someone's moving away, switching jobs, or sailing into the sunset of retirement, these gatherings are all about celebrating the times shared and wishing well for the future.

And what's a farewell party without a heartfelt speech? If you're tasked with sending someone off with words, here’s how to make your farewell speech memorable, touching, and maybe even a bit fun!

Keep It Light and Bright

Start with a smile. Farewell doesn't have to mean tear-jerker. Think about some of the funniest, most endearing moments you’ve shared. Maybe it's that time when the guest of honor tried to photocopy a meeting agenda but ended up with 100 copies of their face instead. Stories like these not only lighten the mood but also show how much you’ve cherished your time together.

Mix in the Compliments

Everyone loves to hear good things about themselves, right? Use this opportunity to highlight the person’s strengths and achievements. Were they always the one to win at  ping pong ? Did they handle a tough project with unbelievable cool? Let them know how much you admire their skills and attitude, and how they've made a difference.

Don’t Forget the Thank-Yous

This is your chance to express gratitude . Thank the person for their companionship, their mentorship, or simply for the daily laughs. Acknowledging their contributions can make your speech feel more personal and meaningful.

End on a high note by looking forward. Wish them success and happiness in their new chapter. You might say something like, "We can't wait to hear all about your new adventures in Paris!" or "We know you’re going to be fantastic, just like you were here."

Keep It Short and Sweet

Remember, while you might have a million things to say, keeping your speech concise is key. Aim for a few minutes, just enough time to share a couple of great memories, show your appreciation, and convey your best wishes without losing the crowd to the buffet table.

Example Speech

"Hey everyone,

I just wanted to take a moment to talk about our amazing Jane, who’s heading off to start her own bakery. Remember the time Jane tried to replace the sugar with salt? We all needed about five cups of water after that coffee, but it was hilarious!

Jane, you’ve brought so much joy and laughter to our office. You’re not just our go-to for a midday treat; you've been a true friend and mentor to us all. We're so grateful for your hard work and all the sweet moments, pun intended. We can't wait to see all the success that comes your way with 'Jane’s Sweet Spot.'

Remember us when you're famous, and send us some samples! We'll miss you tons but we know you're off to bake the world a better place.

Cheers to Jane!"

How to Shine When Giving a Farewell Speech

Here are some fun and simple tips to help you nail that speech and leave everyone smiling!

Start with a Bang

Kick things off with a little humor or a touching story that's sure to grab everyone's attention. This could be a funny incident you shared or a memorable moment that highlights what makes the person so special. This isn’t just about saying goodbye; it’s about celebrating the journey!

Keep It Short

Remember, this is a party, not a lecture. Aim for a speech that’s brief yet impactful. Stick to the highlights: the achievements, the funny stories, and the heartfelt moments. It’s like creating a mini-highlight reel that leaves everyone feeling nostalgic yet hopeful.

Personal Touch

Personalize your speech with details that resonate with everyone listening. Mention the little quirks that make the person unique or the big wins that had everyone cheering. This personal touch not only adds warmth to your words but also makes the farewell feel more intimate and heartfelt.

Practice Makes Perfect

Even the pros practice! Run through your speech a few times to smooth out any awkward pauses and make sure your delivery feels natural. Try practicing in front of a friend or family member who can give you feedback. You’ll be more relaxed, and your words will flow better when it’s showtime.

End on a High Note

Wrap up your speech with a toast or a well-wishing quote that looks to the future. It's great to leave the crowd and the guest of honor feeling uplifted and excited about what’s coming next. Plus, it sets the tone for the rest of the celebration.

Be Yourself

The best speeches are given when you’re simply being yourself. Let your personality shine through. If you’re naturally funny, throw in a joke or two. If you’re more heartfelt, let your genuine emotions lead the way. People will appreciate the authenticity and remember the speech long after the party ends.

Bonus Tip: Keep Those Tissues Handy!

You never know when the waterworks might start, either from you or from the crowd. It’s okay to show emotion, it just shows how much you care.

Giving a farewell speech is a beautiful way to honor someone’s past and their bright future. So, take a deep breath, smile, and let your words come from the heart. 

Welcome Speech for Farewell Party

The welcome speech of a party is important as it is like the "hello" that sets the tone for the whole party.

It's a chance to show the guest of honor how much they mean to everyone and how awesome they are. Plus, it's a bit like flipping through a photo album of memories. You can reminisce about all the fun times you've had together, which can get everyone feeling all fuzzy inside.

Then, there's the vibe-setting part. A good welcome speech can pump up the party mood. It's like pressing play on your favorite party playlist. It gets people excited and ready to celebrate! And hey, it's a chance to crack a few jokes and share some laughs too.

But most importantly, it's a moment to express gratitude. Saying thank you for all the good times and memories shared. It's like sprinkling confetti of appreciation all around. It makes the guest of honor feel special and loved, which is what a farewell party is all about!

So, whether it's a simple "see you later" or a grand "bon voyage," a welcome speech adds that extra touch of magic to make the farewell party unforgettable! 

Example for Welcome Speech for Office Farewell Party:

Hey everyone!

Thanks for joining us today as we bid a cheerful goodbye to some of the amazing folks who've made a huge impact around here. I know, saying goodbye is never easy, but let's make it a day to remember, filled with smiles and fun memories!

First off, let's give a big round of applause to our departing stars. Each of you has brought something unique to our team, and though we're sad to see you go, we're excited to see what you'll tackle next. Your next chapters are bound to be incredible, and we're all cheering for you from the sidelines!

Now, let's talk about the fun times! Remember when we almost missed our project deadline, but pulled together at the last minute with some epic teamwork? Or the office Christmas party last year that, let’s just say, had some unforgettable karaoke performances? It's these moments that we'll hang onto. So today, let's add a few more of those to our collection.

We've got some great food and music lined up for today (yes, there's cake!), and maybe a few surprises to make you laugh and, okay, maybe tear up a bit too. Let’s make sure our friends leave knowing just how much they mean to us and how much they'll be missed.

So, grab a drink, share a story, and let’s give our friends the send-off they deserve. Here’s to new adventures, continued friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime!

Cheers to each of you, the journey ahead, and the ties that will always bring us back together, no matter where we are in the world.

Let the party begin!

With a little bit of humor, some genuine compliments, and lots of good wishes, you’ll give a farewell speech that’s just as memorable as the times you’re celebrating. So grab that mic, speak from the heart, and let’s give a warm, wonderful send-off that’ll be talked about long after the party’s over!

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Latest Education and Career News

Farewell Speech | Best Farewell Speech Samples and templates (Free)

Reported by Pankaj Bhatt

Published on 5 July 2024

Best Farewell Speech – Farewell speech samples for Juniors, College Student, Goodbye speech for Senior, Principal, Teachers, Office, Farewell Speech for School, kids. This will help you to construct a well-balanced farewell/goodbye speech.

The day of farewell is special for the teachers, senior students, and junior students. Juniors are those who arrange the farewell party for the seniors. They wish seniors the best of luck for their upcoming challenges and also take their suggestions as seniors were at the same place where juniors are today.

Best Farewell Speech

Need for Farewell Speech – The farewell party is the time to speak something on behalf of the class to the seniors to wish them well. You may get an opportunity to speak on this day on behalf of your class. Many students get nervous by the name of speech but in reality its an easy task. To deliver an effective speech all you need to do is to remain confident and have eye contact with the audience in the hall. Sometimes writing an effective Goodbye speech can be an issue as you don’t know where to start a speech and how to end it. So we are here to help you with this.

Here we have compiled a sample speech for the Juniors that they can deliver to the farewell party to wish well to their seniors. You can get some inspiration from this speech and compile a new one for you. So without much ado, let’s read the sample Farewell Speech/Goodbye speech;

Let’s get started with Farewell Speech Samples-

Farewell Speech For Juniors

A very good evening to the respected teachers, seniors, and my dear friends. As we all know that, today we are gathered here to give farewell to our seniors and it’s my pleasure that I am here to say thanks and wish to the seniors on behalf of my class. Having brilliant seniors is always a motivating factor and we are lucky that we have you as our seniors. 

I would like to congratulate all the seniors for their nice journey in this school. They must have some good and ordinary memories of this school but as s junior, I also have some memories of them and it is from the fresher’s party. We all juniors think that our seniors have set a high benchmark of excellence and to reach that point we need to work hard.  You guys were like a guardian in the schools for us and we know that if we would need your help you would be always ready for it.

Now when you are going to college to pursue your dream career we all are happy. But somewhere we have the pressure to be as good as you were. To be there for the juniors as you were for us.

A farewell is a celebration to celebrate your success and wish the seniors well but today I want you to wish us well and to be as great as you all. As students, you all made the school proud and now it’s our responsibility to carry forward the legacy. We learned many important things from our seniors including the art of making healthy interactions with everyone in the school.  We will make sure to have a healthy relationship with the juniors and to follow the instructions of teachers.

At last to conclude this speech I want to say to our seniors that our wishes are always with you all. We wish you well for your successful future.

Farewell Speech for College Student

Hello hello!!!! Mike testing 1, 2, 3, 4 everyone can hear me ok so let’s get started

Good evening dean sir, our professors and all those who are here with me for the last four years.

I am happy that I got the chance to stand in front of you and remind you of the good and bad memories which we lived in our college which are now going to be souvenirs for all of us.

It seems like yesterday when we joined our college. There is something in this college because we all acclimatize with the ambiance of this college very quickly.

Earlier we thought that college life is so boring and we are going to miss our school days for sure, yeah we still miss our school days though, but this college never makes us feeling short of our school. We make new friends here who are awesome in all ways.

 I would like to thank all the professors for not only teaching us but also the moral values which they inculcate in us which is more necessary in today’s world.

They taught us how to celebrate your defeat because it will remind you to do better next time and they also inculcate the never lose and never give up mentality.

College life is the most important phase of your life and if you didn’t get the right path then it will ruin your whole life.

Our professor always inspired us and challenged us throughout the 4 years and we also never let them down in any way. We really worked hard for this day.

They made us tough and gentle to face the real world we are going to face.

From the bottom of my heart and on behalf of all the batch mates I would like to thank all professors for making us responsible people.

Friends the day you all are waiting for has arrived today. Today we all are going to graduate from our college and I can see so many faces that are happy, knowing that from tomorrow onwards they do not have to attend any lectures, no project work, no practical anything but…

They are also feeling said when they thought about, that they are going to miss all the wickedness, lecture bunk, unnecessary gossip, times we laughed, cried, screamed in joy, eating food without paying the bill in the canteen and all that.

From tomorrow our all memories will be kept forever on the walls of the college. We don’t want to part from each other but it’s the part of life we have to move on, now everyone will cherish these memories throughout their life.

It is the day when you have a mixed feeling, at one time you will feel elated, and at the same time, you feel dejected. All these feelings will vanish as time passes.

Before stepping down I would like to thank you once again to all professors and friends to be a part of a wonderful journey wish you all the luck for your future and I promise to be in touch with you forever. Now let’s celebrate this day because it will not be going to come again.

Farewell Speech For Students (By Senior)

Sometimes the departure of a few people becomes a reason for celebration rather than their arrival and farewell is the same time. When a teacher or the juniors say goodbye to the seniors then it’s the time of celebration for all. When school staff and the juniors bid goodbye to the pass-out seniors it becomes a celebration. A farewell is a time to wish good luck to the seniors and seniors motivate juniors to work harder whereas teachers feel proud of their students.      

This is the time when all teachers, juniors, or seniors three of them speak of their mind. As a parting gift, a farewell speech for teachers by students is the best. This is the time when students can give a speech to thank their teachers. We understand that penning down a speech is a difficult task so here we have given a farewell speech for students ideally for seniors who are leaving the school. You can get inspiration from this and compile a speech for yourself.

Goodbye speech For Students (By Senior)

Good evening to the respected Principal sir, teachers, my juniors, and my dear classmates. It’s a pleasure for me to speak here at this farewell party on behalf of my class. I would like to thank my classmates and friends to give me this opportunity.

Today as our farewell party is going on and it is going to be the last day of us in this school, we are overwhelmed with your love and respect. It’s like a journey to get admission to this school as a young kid who doesn’t know how to even hold a pencil and leave it when my height is almost equal to my teachers. From here we all will go to see a bigger world in the form of college but it is the hard work of the teachers that made us capable enough to step out of this school. On behalf of my class, I would like to say that we all will never forget all the support and care given by our teachers.

Unlike college in school, we are to be in discipline, and the etiquette and discipline we learned here have given us a strong foundation. It seems like I just joined the school and it’s too early for me to leave this secure and familiar place. I am scared that how will I face the world outside of this school premises. But somewhere I am confident that I will make you proud and this confidence I got from your teachings and blessings.

This school was like our second home where we learned to differentiate between right and wrong. I will make sure that I will make my teachers and school proud. To my juniors, I would like to say that follow what your teachers say. Teachers may scold you sometimes but it’s for your betterment only. And to my batch mates, I would like to say that guys we will keep in touch. We have spent a very good time here and thanks for all those memories.  

Thank you all

Farewell Speech for Students by Principal

Respected Teachers and my dear students,

Students, we all welcome you to this auspicious moment. This moment is very special for you as well as for us (principal, school staff). Every year we have students who pass out from our institute. For me, it has mixed feelings of joy, and happiness and on the other side, it gives sorrow and pain. A feeling of joy that all my students will achieve success, and sorrow for the thing that from today onwards we won’t meet in the classroom. Although, you are invited to every function in the institute. I with my faculty staff will always be there to support you. If you feel any help of mine, please do visit me.

I remember the day when you took admitted to the school. You were not so bold enough to represent yourself. After your parents, we were the only ones who supported you, made you walk on your feet confidently, and made you realize about the world through imparting knowledge. Sometimes we scolded you for your mistakes but trust me all we did was for the sake of your future. We have trust in our students and the knowledge we have provided you that you will never fail in your life. You have just completed the first phase of life and there are more to come. Now, you have to take the major decision of your life and you cannot depend on anyone for that. All my students have very good character and I never want you to diminish your good behaviour. I request you to remember the much-used proverb, which has been told you by your faculties is “ If health is gone nothing is gone if wealth is gone something is gone, but if the character is gone everything is gone . You will face many situations in your coming life and the principles, which are inculcated in you, will help you to get rid of you

The name and reputation we have earned for this institute are all because of you. The progress of the school equally depends upon the faculties and the students. I am thankful to all of the students for their support and for maintaining the dignity of the school. An institute is a structure whose pillars are students and the faculty.

I won’t conclude it by saying that work hard for your examination, our faculties have already told you the strategy to study . However, I must say that your goal should be achieving good marks and parallel work on self-development. Inculcate good habits, Eat healthy food and stay focussed. I thank you again for being a part of this huge family.

Good luck with your future endeavors.

Farewell Speech For Students By Teachers

A farewell is an occasion when juniors, seniors, and teachers gathered in one place and share their thoughts and experiences. A Farewell party is one of the rarest occasions when people celebrate the see-off to others else generally saying goodbye to someone is not a happy moment. 

Farewell, the party is a celebration time as the seniors leave the school to appear in further studies and bigger college. They will get more chances to grow and make their career. For juniors, it’s a time of celebration as their seniors are leaving a legacy behind. And for teachers, it’s celebration time as their students have grown enough to come out from the boundaries and the discipline of the school and to move to a bigger world.

At the farewell celebration students and teachers speak of their minds which is generally known as a farewell speech. When you write a farewell speech you may have many thoughts in mind but penning down them is not easy. So here we have compiled a sample farewell speech for students by teachers. The speech given here has been written keeping the Introduction , Briefing and wrapping up part in mind so this one going to be a perfect speech to bid goodbye on the farewell party.

Goodbye Speech By Teachers

Good morning respected principal, dear colleagues, and friends, and my dear outgoing 12th class students. Finally, the day has arrived when we all are gathered here to wish farewell to the students of the most senior class of our school. Time really flies like anything. For me, it’s just a few days back when I was appointed as your class teacher and today I am honored and pleased to deliver this farewell speech.

Dear students of the 12 th class, you may have faced many challenges in your academic session so far. For a few, Maths is the biggest difficulty in life and for others, it may be some other subject. But as you are moving to college now and going to plan your career then as a teacher it’s my responsibility to prepare you mentally about the upcoming challenges.

This school was like a nest of birds to you, and now it’s the time to fly to explore the world. Trust me, students, today we are as happy as a bird would be after seeing her baby flying. We have worked hard to teach you how to fly and now when you are moving out, you will have to use that teaching.  I am overwhelmed today as, under our guidance, you have achieved this impressive milestone of your student life with integrity. Because of your intelligence, you have left behind a very good legacy for the juniors to follow.

When you are leaving school, its name will follow you everywhere you will go. I know that you will keep making us proud wherever you will go. We have given you a firm foundation here in schools so now it’s in your hand what kind of building you want to develop on it. With this responsibility on your shoulders, I would like to wish all the best to you for your future. Keep shining and get more success in the future. May God bless you all!

Thank you very much.

Farewell Speech for Office

A very good evening to all of you, you all must be wondering why you have been invited to today’s party. So let me reveal the surprise for you, as you know I have been a part of this wonderful company for the last 18 years and it’s like my second home. I still remember it was 14 th of March 2002 when I associated with the company and it seems like it was yesterday when I joined the company and today I am standing in front of you and delivering my farewell speech …

Yes, you all heard it right I am going to retire from the company today. On the first day of joining, I never thought that one day I will deliver a farewell speech and it’s true but I am retiring from my job but not from my duties.

I am thankful to the company that improves my level of skills. The journey from a contract basis to a permanent employee of the company is so challenging for me. I learned so many things from the company especially from our seniors, they are always supportive and never pressurize me for any work and never gave me the deadline, I don’t know but somehow I understand what they want from me and in what duration, this is just because of mutual understanding between me and my seniors.

I saw so many ups and downs but I never quit and that’s my motto. I keep on working and always try to give my best from yesterday.

Today, I would like to thank everyone who is always there to help and support me, even my junior’s colleagues, they are from the new generation and they know various things and I learned so many things from them and I am that kind of person who is so keen to learn new-new things.

Yesterday when someone asked me how much money you are going to receive on the retirement day, I told him that I am going to receive the wealth of knowledge and respect which is more than any treasure. I am thankful to all of you to be a part of this journey and make my journey easier.

Being a part of this company is an honor to me it gives me so much respect among my family and friends circle.

I will tell you the two important things which I learned here, are time management and instant decision making and both these qualities are going to help me in the future. Because earlier I am not that great in both the department but slowly-slowly my seniors inculcate these qualities in me.

In my term, I got so many offers from other companies but I don’t want to part with from the company because this company made me eligible to stand tall in the market and because of this I got the opportunity from other company and…

When everyone is getting a pink slip in recession time then, this company stays strong with me, then how could I leave such a company? And always refuse such offers.

All the moments in which I lived with this company and all of my colleagues will be there with me for time immemorial.  We have given our day and night to this company and I can expect the same from the young guns of my team and they will carry on as we are doing and even more of it.

Someone asks me what will you do after retirement and I always keep my answer ready for such a question from the last few years, I didn’t spend quality time with my family so for the next few months I am going to do that and after that, I will join my friends business.

Once again thank you so much to all of you it’s been a wonderful experience working with you guys and thanks for coming to the party and all the very best for your future!

Farewell Speech For Teachers

Farewell in school is the time when the students and the teachers both have mixed feelings. The students are sad as they are to leave their school but excited for college or new schools. The same applies to the teachers, on one hand, they are sad as their students to whom they have taught for years are moving forward and on another hand, they are happy that the students are going to study in further classes.

Schools and students both organize a party to farewell to the students. Generally, this party or get-together is organized by the juniors but teachers are equally involved in this as they also want their students to leave their existing school with good memories. At the farewell party, the teachers also speak something to motivate the students for the upcoming challenges. Here we have compiled a farewell speech for the teacher. If you are a teacher, read the speech compiled below to get inspiration. We hope this will help you on the farewell day.

Goodbye Speech For Teachers

Good morning to the respected, principal, vice-principal, dear colleagues, families, and friends, lovely students, and students of 12th standard who are going to join different schools after a few days.

I am honoured to give this farewell speech . Today I am speaking with a mixed feeling in my heart. Today is the day of happiness as students have grown up and now they are moving forward for further education but I am sad too as soon these familiar faces of students will move in front of my eyes. As you all know we are here to give a farewell to all our students, who are leaving school after the successful completion of their 12th in the college.

It’s a pleasure for me to welcome all of you to this colorful ceremony. Today I am overwhelmed to see you guys grown up enough to go out from this school to explore the new world. I congratulate all the students of the 12th class as their journey in this school is going to be over soon. Despite all the challenges you have faced in past years related to tour studies, other activities, and competitions you shine like a star. As your teacher, I know you will make your new college proud too as you made us proud.  

Today we have your juniors also with us in this hall. They have made all the arrangements for your farewell party. Nothing can be greater than this when your junior follows your footstep and our school is witnessing this proud moment.

Dear students, being a teacher is not an easy job. We need to be harsh and strict to you in order to make you capable enough to handle the upcoming challenges. Now when you will join a college it will be a test of your education as well. At last, I would like to wish the best of luck to all the students for their future.  I hope you guys will make your new teachers proud too as you did to us.

Farewell Speech for School

Good Evening Principal sir/mam, vice-principal sir/mam, teachers, our beloved juniors, and my dear colleagues. Today we gathered here to celebrate our farewell party and our juniors giving us a bid farewell. Our juniors are so sincere they respect each of their teacher and seniors very well and guys you have done an awesome arrangement for a farewell party and you definitely deserve an applaud for it.

Today, I am standing in front of you on behalf of my class to deliver the last speech of my school life; right now our classmates are feeling nostalgic because we all are going to part from today. It is our last day of school and after that we all will jump into the well of competition, to get the best college to make our future bright.

I would like to thank all our teachers for their selfless dedication, just because of you we all are standing here and going to join our college life soon. You made us so strong so that we can face any kind of situation.

Our teachers play an important role in our life; they showed us the right path, especially mine because earlier I am just a below-average student and always in the chart of bad behavior students…

But my teacher knows the hidden caliber in me and they know, if they took me in the right direction then no one is going to stop me and seriously they worked really hard on me and because of it, I am the perfect of my class for the last five years and in the top three ranked students of our class from last five years.

The kind of support we get from our teachers in our lows and highs is commendable; they not only teach us but also prepared us how to face the world we are going to now face.

I would also like to thank the principal, vice-principal, and chairman sir; just because of you, we got a fantastic environment for study and always ready supportive teachers. You have arranged for us whatever we need in a short span of time.

You are always ready to help any students anytime and this shows your dedication towards the schools and students, thank you so much for that sir.

I would like to thank all my dear colleagues, you guys are so supportive, and as you all know…

Maximum of us are in the school since our first class and we spent twelve years of our school life together and we all are like a second family to each other.

I will miss all the moments we live in the classroom, campus, canteen, and especially on the roads.

The way we crack a joke , doing interesting things, playing games, doing silly mistakes, a competition that who is going to reach the school gate first, eating other lunch boxes especially in the periods and never endings talks and…

Even sometimes we fight with each other but we can’t live more than one day without talking to each other but moreover of it, we always ready to help each other when anyone is in need.

I am sure from tomorrow onwards whenever we recall our school days then there will be a dull smile on our face.

Friends you remember that day when we are in junior class and we heard about a farewell party first time ever…

And how we all are excited that we are going to have a party this year but when we get to know this is only for senior students who are in their final years then we all feel so said and…

We all keep on waiting for this day and we are so excited, that we will get the farewell party but when we get to know, that the day of the farewell party is going to be the last day of our school life then we are praying from god that we do not want this day to come in our life…

And as the day comes closer and closer our heart starts pumping faster. But someday it has to come and here it is.

The entire moments of our school life are a souvenir for all of us and we are going to cherish it for our entire life.

The more I will talk about the past it makes me feel nostalgic, so I will wrap up my speech and once again…

I would like to thank all the teachers, other staff members, and the watchmen uncle from the bottom of my heart.

Let’s celebrate this day because it’s never going to come again in my life again.

Farewell Speech for Kids

Respected, Principal sir, teachers, and all my dear friends. My name is Taashi and I am a student of class 4. Today is the last day of our class at this school. From tomorrow onwards we are going to join the senior secondary school branch of our school. My class teacher gave me the responsibility to give a speech on our farewell day. This is the first time I am giving a speech so pardon me if I have done any mistake.

I would like to thank on behalf of my class the teachers who teach us their new ideas and because of them, we learn daily new things. Vikas sir we never forget the single table thanks to you for teaching us in a new way. My parents are so happy that I am a part of this school and the way I perform and this happens just because of our teachers.

We will miss our teachers who never give up and tolerate our silly mistakes. Especially our class teacher Nalini mam, she is so nice and she never forgets to celebrate our birthday in class and she always played with us in our free time. She is one of the best teachers in our school every student from our class loved her a lot. Mam, we will miss you.

The moments we shared in this school are unforgettable for each student, we will definitely going to miss the last corner of my class where we all students play games.

I would like to thank our sports and cultural teacher also, they gave us chance to join their team and we won a trophy for our class last year just in a cultural activity it was because of them. Most of the students of our class are now always ready to take part in cultural activity and sir you will be happy to know that we are going to give audition for kid’s talent hunt which is going to be held next month in Delhi.

I also like to thank our principal sir who is so friendly in nature. It feels homely when we are in school. We never miss our homes when we are in school, but we definitely going to miss our school when we are at home for sure.

At last, I also like to thank our driver uncle who took all of us from home to school and vice versa.

We will definitely rock in our senior secondary school to make all our teachers proud thank you all of for your guidance and love.

If you would like to add your farewell speech you can send us below your name and details. OR if you have any queries, then comment below.

Pankaj Bhatt

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40 Examples of Farewell Speech for Colleagues and Others

Posted: February 19, 2019 •

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“Farewell” we wish people who leave us to start a journey all new. Farewell means that wherever you go, whatever you do, may it be in peace and you get success. “Farewell” is not just a word, but an emotion. So, is there someone who is retiring or , among your colleagues? Or is anyone leaving your institution and joining others for growth and prosperity? Then you would want to give them a farewell speech. It isn’t difficult to do that, however, you would want the speech to touch their heart, wouldn’t you? Then you would need to have some guidelines and examples before writing down your own. who

Examples of Farewell Speech for Colleagues and Others

How do you give a farewell speech?

The best farewell speech is the one that comes from the heart and not what you read on different articles. Although the examples cold be useful to actually shape your thoughts into words, your farewell speech should be the one that has a taste of what you experienced at the place you are leaving behind. For example, mention the first day that you had at your workplace of college that is where the story starts. Gradually include how you got familiar with people around you and made some amazing friends who stood by you through thick and thin . Further, credit your mentor, for it is because of him/ her that you could survive in that environment and blossom. Tell everyone all the fun moments that you had with your friends and what mischiefs you did. Make everyone remember the memorable days that you had spent in there and how you will always cherish being there.

Why is farewell important?

When a baby is born, everyone celebrates its birth and eventually, it is a celebration to wish the baby a good new start . Similarly, when a person leaves an institution, he is bid farewell so that the journey that he has a merry journey ahead as he had where he had associated. A farewell ceremony is therefore important as it acts as a get together to wish someone happy journey.

What should I write in a farewell letter?

Remember, farewell is associated with a positive feeling that is mutual of one who left us. So when you write a farewell letter, keep it positive. Remember that you want their journey to be happy and positive so even if there were and negative incidents between you, avoid them. Start by addressing them in a friendly manner. Then inculcate some amazing, happy and funny moments you had with them. Write how you will miss them and doing stuff with them. Finally wish them good luck, success, and happiness for the future.

Remember, a farewell speech is not a formal speech so you don’t have to behave formally and it is okay if you are emotional. Moreover, the best way one can give a farewell speech is by being emotional. A few tips for giving a farewell speech are

Jot down the speech on a paper and read it form that paper.

If the speech is emotional, let your emotions flow.

Speak of the memories you had with the one you are delivering the speech for.

Wish them all the best for their future and have a promise of keeping touch.

  EXAMPLES OF FAREWELL SPEECH FOR COLLEAGUES

Example Speech 1:

Good Evening Everyone!

I am sure all of us know Ms. Sarah Summers in the Sales Department of our office. She has always been an outstanding employee and it is impossible for anyone not to have heard of her yet. Fortunately for her and unfortunately for us, Sarah has chosen to move out of the city to study further. And I, as the head of the sales department, would like to say a few things about her, to her and all of you here, before she leaves.

Sarah joined our company as an intern, right out of college. Though our organization was a little hesitant to hire her for her lack of experience, they also saw true potential in her. And, might I add, she never missed an opportunity to prove us wrong. A highly passionate girl, Sarah has, if anything, greatly contributed to the improvement in the function of the sales department. We are now more organized, we challenge ourselves to think differently, and we implement plans we thought would be impossible to implement. While many discard the vision of a youth as a mere idealistic tendency, we found that these inputs indeed helped us move ahead and give our department a much-needed change.

Sarah, we are going to miss you deeply, for the liveliness you brought whenever you entered a room, for the spark your enthusiasm could ignite, and for the sheer dedication, you gave your job. Replacing you is going to so difficult. I, on behalf of everyone here, wish you all the luck with your life ahead. We hope to see you shining brighter and achieve what you truly deserve. God Bless!

  Example Speech 2:

Good afternoon everyone,

I am delighted to welcome you to the farewell party. It is an honor and a great pleasure for me to deliver this speech. Today, we are all here to bid goodbye to our very good boss, an exceptional leader and a mentor who retired from active service.

It gives me great satisfaction to say that we must recognize, respect, and appreciate all the valuable skills, knowledge, and all the positive qualities that our amiable boss had instilled onto us and to thank him for all his time and efforts in shaping our profession. Of course, we all know how painful it is, to say goodbye to a very friendly boss and a father. However, we all need to express our sincerest gratitude to him for all his uncommon contributions not only to this organization but toward every staff career progression.

He spent 15 years guiding and inspiring everyone in the workplace; it seems like it was yesterday we started to work under him. Sir, you have given us so many opportunities to be thankful for. I see myself and my colleagues as lucky to have worked under your leadership. Words are not enough to express how much we are going to miss you.

You will be remembered for the great things that you have done not only for this company but for every staff in the workplace. If it had been possible for us to stop your retirement, or decrease your age and increase the number of years left to continue with what you know how to do best—creating a peaceful workplace for the superiors and subordinates to work together in harmony—we would have done that for you. However, it is your turn today. Our own retirement period is also waiting around the corner when someone else will have to bid us goodbye just like we are doing for you today.

I am also delighted to have witnessed today’s event, and proud to have worked under your leadership. Not only are you an amazing boss, but you have shown yourself to be a loving and caring person. I remember when I was sick and had lost all hope of ever getting on with this job, you counseled me, gave me moral support, and prayed for a miraculous healing from the illness. During that difficult time, all your words of encouragement, inspiration, and kindly support put me back on track for optimal job performance. I will never forget the positive influence that you have made on my life.

Through your compassionate heart and support, you have put smiles on many faces. Your leadership made working in the office easy and enjoyable. Thank you for opening many opportunities for me and my coworkers and for being so passionate about our well-being and career advancement.

I remember when the company was facing some financial difficulties, with your professional skills and knowledge in making quick decisions in a very hostile situation; you were able to bring back hope to the organization even beyond our expectations. Indeed, your exceptional qualities have inspired us in so many ways. For that, we cannot thank you enough — the sweet memories of ever working with you will remain in our hearts forever.

Thank you for all your support and encouragement, you are the best boss we have ever worked with. Your many contributions to our success are immeasurable. You have contributed immensely to the company’s success in so many ways. It is no gain saying that it will be difficult for anyone to surpass the good examples that you are leaving behind.

Our very good outgoing boss has put in great efforts in instilling values, such as determination, tolerance, equity, kindness, honesty, patience, and professional skills that are needed to get on with the job even in his absence. You have worked assiduously; now it is time to enjoy all that you have labored for all over the years and live life happily without any stress. As you join the seniors of this great country, I pray that God continues to grant you sound health, mercy and blessings. And may you find life after retirement a happy moment with endless sweet memories.

On behalf of the company and my colleagues, I wish you good luck and full success in future endeavors.

Example Speech 3:

I remember the first time I saw you,” Allie said. “I thought you smelled me first.” “Right,” said Allie. “The chocolate. But then I saw you as I sat up in the dead forest, thinking I knew you. At the time, I thought I must have seen you through the windshield when our cars crashed…. But that wasn’t it. I think, way back then, I was seeing you as you are now. Isn’t that funny?” “Not as funny as the way I always complained, and the way you always bossed me around!” They embraced and held each other for a long time. “Don’t forget me,” Nick said. “No matter where your life goes, no matter how old you get. And if you ever get the feeling that someone is looking over your shoulder, but there’s nobody there, maybe it’ll be me.” “I’ll write to you,” said Allie, and Nick laughed. “No really. I’ll write the letter then burn it, and if I care just enough it will cross into Everlost.” “And,” added Nick, “it will show up as a dead letter at that the post office Milos made cross into San Antonio!” Allie could have stood there saying good-bye forever, because it was more than Nick she was saying good-bye to. She was leaving behind four years of half-life in a world that was both stunningly beautiful, and hauntingly dark. And she was saying good-bye to Mikey. I’ll be waiting for you, he had said…. Well, if he was, maybe she wasn’t saying good-bye at all. Nick hefted the backpack on his shoulder. “Shouldn’t you be heading off to Memphis?” he said. “You’d better hit the road…. Jack.” Then he chuckled by his own joke, and walked off.”

Example Speech  4: A Poem!

“Out of the starless night that covers me, (O tribulation of the wind that rolls!) Black as the cloud of some tremendous spell, The susurration of the sighing sea Sounds like the sobbing whisper of two souls That tremble in a passion of farewell.

To the desires that trebled life in me, (O melancholy of the wind that rolls!) The dreams that seemed the future to foretell, The hopes that mounted herward like the sea, To all the sweet things sent on happy souls, I cannot choose but bid a mute farewell.

And to the girl who was so much to me (O lamentation of this wind that rolls!) Since I may not the life of her compel, Out of the night, beside the sounding sea, Full of the love that might have blent our souls, A sad, a last, a long, supreme farewell.” ― W.E. Henley,

Example Speech 5:

Today is a very sad day for us in the office as we have to say goodbye to our wonderful coworker. He/she has worked with us for a long time and has never let us down. He/she has always been extremely  professional, hard-working and a team player. He/she has a brilliant mind and always brought creative new ideas to the team.

He/she has not only been a fantastic colleague, he/she has also been a true friend. He/she always took the time to ask how his/her fellow colleagues were, always had time to listen and talk to anybody with a problem and was great fun in the office. He/she was always full of energy and happy to see everyone on Monday mornings.

He/she is a great loss to our company but we were lucky to have the opportunity to work with him/her. We all wish you the very best in the future. I know that whatever the future holds, he/she will excel and continue to be successful.

We will miss you but this isn’t goodbye as we know you will keep in touch and we will see you sooner rather than later. Thank you for everything you have given to the company.”

If you want to make this speech more effective, you could include a funny or memorable story or a time your colleague excelled at work. I would also use their name whenever you can so it is more personal.

EXAMPLES OF FAREWELL QUOTES THAT YOU CAN USE IN SPEECHES

“Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation.”

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

A.A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh)

“What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from.”

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.”

Mahatma Gandhi

“You have been my friend. That in itself is a tremendous thing.”

E.B. White (Charlotte’s Web)

“If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello.”

Paulo Coelho

“This is not a goodbye, my darling, this is a thank you.”

Nicholas Sparks (Message in a Bottle)

“The two hardest things to say in life are hello for the first time and goodbye for the last.”

Moira Rogers

“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”

“Man’s feelings are always purest and most glowing in the hour of meeting and of farewell.”

Jean Paul Richter

“Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

“Don’t be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.”

Richard Bach

“Why can’t we get all the people together in the world that we really like and then just stay together? I guess that wouldn’t work. Someone would leave. Someone always leaves. Then we would have to say good-bye. I hate good-byes. I know what I need. I need more hellos.”

Charles M. Schulz

“It’s time to say goodbye, but I think goodbyes are sad and I’d much rather say hello. Hello to a new adventure.”

Ernie Harwell

“All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another.”

Anatole France

“Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting.”

J.M. Barrie (Peter Pan)

“We’ll meet again, Don’t know where,don’t know when, But I know we’ll meet again, some sunny day.”

Vera Lynn (We’ll Meet Again)

“Only in the agony of parting do we look into the depths of love.”

George Eliot

“What is that feeling when you’re driving away from people and they recede on the plain till you see their specks dispersing? – it’s the too-huge world vaulting us, and it’s good-bye. But we lean forward to the next crazy venture beneath the skies.”

Jack Kerouac (On the Road)

“Remember me and smile, for it’s better to forget than to remember me and cry.”

“So long as the memory of certain beloved friends lives in my heart, I shall say that life is good.”

Helen Keller

“Yesterday brought the beginning, tomorrow brings the end, though somewhere in the middle we became the best of friends.”

“Goodbyes make you think. They make you realize what you’ve had, what you’ve lost, and what you’ve taken for granted.”

Ritu Ghatourey

“Moving on, is a simple thing, what it leaves behind is hard.”

Dave Mustaine

“They must often change, who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.”

“The pain of parting is nothing to the joy of meeting again.”

Charles Dickens (Nicholas Nickleby)

“Life is a journey, not a destination.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Though miles may lie between us, We are never far apart, For friendship doesn’t count miles, It’s measured by the heart.”

“To part is the lot of all mankind. The world is a scene of constant leave-taking, and the hands that grasp in cordial greeting today, are doomed ere long to unite for the the last time, when the quivering lips pronounce the word – Farewell.”

R.M. Ballantyne

“Goodbyes are not forever, Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I’ll miss you, Until we meet again.”

Are these Examples of Farewell Speech for Colleagues and Others helpful? We hope they are! Keep in mind the tips we shared with you on making your speech effective and write the speech in your own words rather than coping it. You can always have some inspiration from the examples give above, however, your experiences are yours, and they cannot be found in example speeches. One effective way of wishing farewell is by writing the speech in the form of a poem or in other words sentences that rhyme. In this, you can include all the names of the members you had memories with and this will help you indulge everyone actively in your speech.

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News | Politics

General Election 2024 LIVE: Starmer and Sunak give final speeches as campaigns come to a close

Sir Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have made their final pitches to voters hours before millions vote in the General Election.

The Labour leader wrapped up his campaign at a community centre in Redditch, telling activists “if you want change you have to vote for it”.

Sir Keir signed off saying: “Imagine a Britain moving forward together with a Labour government. That’s what we are fighting for, let’s continue that fight.”

The politician told reporters that being in opposition has been “the least productive nine years of my life” adding that Labour would get to work straight away.

Meanwhile The Prime Minister was joined by his parents and his wife Akshata Murty for the final stump speech of the election campaign.

Mr Sunak vowed “this underdog will fight to the final whistle” as he made the last speech of the trail at Romsey Rugby Club, north of Southampton where he grew up.

The Prime Minister urged Tory activists to continue campaigning, claiming they had “urgent work to do” to “save the UK” from a Labour government.

Labour are on track for a landslide victory and could break a series of electoral records along the way, according to the final YouGov poll projection of the campaign.

The opposition party will win a majority of 212 seats in the election tomorrow, and Sir Keir will enjoy the biggest majority for any single party since 1832 in a vote, YouGov predicts.

Chingford & Woodford Green: East London constituency on a knife edge

Corbyn close to shock win in Islington North, poll shows just hours before election

Sunak and Starmer make final pleas to voters ahead of General Election

Share your cat or dog's joyful moment to win

Sixteen of the 26 cabinet ministers still standing, including Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, will lose their seats, according to the pollster

It comes as a separate poll says that Labour is set for an upset in Islington North, where the party’s former leader Jeremy Corbyn has a 91 per cent chance of winning.

This morning a Cabinet minister admitted Labour was heading for an “extraordinary landside” victory on a scale probably never seen before in British history. Mel Stride made the remarks on Wednesday morning as another opinion poll predicted the Conservatives will be reduced to just three seats in London.

Boris Johnson made a dramatic and unexpected 11th-hour campaign appearance as he rallied Tory supporters in Chelsea on Tuesday night.

Follow latest updates below...

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Read all the latest political stories from the Standard here.

Starmer 'owes it to children' to keep them out of the limelight

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said keeping his children out of the limelight is something which he owes them.

Taking a question about Thursday potentially being his final day in opposition before a forecast election win, Sir Keir said: “I have talked about the concern I have about my children.

“I don’t want to overly talk about my children because I don’t want to bring them into this – that’s the very thing I’ve been trying not to do.

“Look, it’s not easy if you’re 16 and 13-and-a-half to go through big changes in your life if that’s what happens, and so, you know, they’re understandably at an age where this is very impactful on them, which is why I’ve been so fiercely protective of them for many years now and will continue to try to be so.

“That’s just a very personal thing that I owe them.”

Asked about whether he had plans to “do something special tomorrow”, Sir Keir said: “I think tomorrow may be pretty busy, so I’ve not made promises I can’t keep to anyone, including my children.”

East London constituency on knife edge as abuse of Labour candidate condemned

Labour is narrowly ahead in a key three-way marginal seat in  east London , according to a major poll published with just over 12 hours to go before voters begin casting their ballots.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith is hoping to cling on in the Chingford and  Woodford Green  seat, where Labour candidate Shama Tatler is ahead on 35 per cent of the vote and the former Tory leader on 26 per cent, according to the YouGov survey on Wednesday evening.

It has not been a smooth ride for Brent councillor Ms Tatler since she was parachuted in to fight for the constituency after her predecessor Faiza Shaheen was de-selected for liking a series of tweets that allegedly downplayed allegations of antisemitism.

Read the latest updates from Chingford and Woodford Green here .

Ofcom will not investigate Channel 4 News over Reform story

Ofcom will not investigate Channel 4 News after Nigel Farage’s Reform UK claimed the broadcaster used an actor as a “plant” in its undercover investigation into his campaign.

The UK watchdog said it had received more than 270 complaints about Channel 4 News’s programme titled Undercover Inside Reform’s campaign, which saw a canvasser named Andrew Parker filmed using a racial slur to describe Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

After the expose aired, Reform’s party secretary Adam Richardson said in a letter to the Electoral Commission that it was “entirely evident that Mr Parker was a plant within the Channel 4 news piece”, adding that the broadcast “cannot be described as anything short of election interference”.

On Wednesday, Ofcom said after “urgently” assessing the complaints against the due accuracy, due impartiality and offence rules under the Broadcasting Code, “we have concluded that they do not raise substantive issues warranting further investigation”.

Starmer and Sunak give final messages

Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer have made their final pitch to voters hours before polls open across the country.

Sir Keir has given his last speech of the election campaign at a community centre in Redditch.

Speaking to cheering activists for the final time before polls open, the Labour leader signed off saying: “Imagine a Britain moving forward together with a Labour government.

“That’s what we are fighting for, let’s continue that fight.

“If you want change, you have to vote for it.”

Meanwhile Mr Sunak was joined by his parents and his wife Akshata Murty for the final stump speech of the election campaign.

The Prime Minister stood for a photo with his family after giving a speech at Romsey Rugby Club, north of Southampton where he grew up.

“This underdog will fight to the final whistle,” Mr Sunak said during his last speech on the trail.

Poll predicts Tories will have worst election result in history

The Prime Minister is on course for the worst election result in history and will hold on to just 82 seats, a new poll has suggested.

A major poll by Techne survey for The Independent believes Labour is on course for a 272-seat majority, with Sir Keir Starmer set to win 461 seats.

The poll has predicted that the Liberal Democrats would win 55 seats and suggested Reform UK leader Nigel Farage would become an MP on his eighth attempt.

Can you still vote without a polling card?

Londoners are now hours away from casting their votes in the General Election.

Those who have registered might have already or will soon receive their polling cards, detailing information like where your local polling station is.

It’s also a good idea to take your polling card down to the station with you when you go to vote,  along with your photo ID .

Voters are still able to vote without their polling cards. Find out more about what you will need to cast your vote here .

Lib Dems focused on taking Conservative seats, Daisy Cooper says

Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper said the party has focused on taking Conservative seats in the General Election rather than competing with Labour.

She told the PA news agency that the Conservatives have “taken a wrecking ball to standards in public life”.

She said: “We’ve always said that our target is to remove as many Conservative MPs as possible. We are in second place to the Conservatives in around 80 seats around the country, and we’ve had to target our resources in those areas.”

Read the full story here .

School fees plan hits Labour in target London seats

Labour  is predicted to win a record majority on Thursday and sweep up seats across the capital, including some the party has never won before.

But in London’s wealthiest borough there are signs that the party’s policy to add 20 per cent tax to private school fees is proving more problematic for candidates than elsewhere.

Labour has pledged to end the VAT exemption to raise an estimated £1.6billion that it says will be used to hire 6,500 teachers in the state sector.

Read more here.

Farage speaking in Clacton

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has entered his party’s rally at Clacton pier on an army vehicle to the tune of Without Me by Eminem.

The vehicle drove through the crowds before reversing, narrowly avoiding contact with a woman in a mobility scooter.

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Defeated Rishi Sunak is back at Tory HQ before making farewell speech and resigning at Palace

• Harry Goodwin
• Published : 7:57, 5 Jul 2024
• Updated : 10:16, 5 Jul 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

DEFEATED Rishi Sunak is back at Tory HQ before he makes his farewell speech and resigns at Buckingham Palace.

Vans have pulled up outside No. 10 Downing Street as the PM gets ready to leave office.

Rishi's plane landed at RAF Northolt in west London this morning after the Tories were battered overnight.

The outgoing PM has been snapped entering the Tory HQ in Westminster.

He is expected to travel to Buckingham Palace to resign during an audience with the King.

Meanwhile Chancellor Jeremy Hunt was spotted leaving No. 11 Downing Street with his family.

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Rishi could be forced to make another Downing Street speech in the rain.

A downpour is forecast for 10.30am, when Rishi will address the nation.

After his speech Rishi will head to Buckingham Palace - where Sir Keir will also travel to formally accept the King's invitation to form a government.

Sir Keir is expected to make his first speech as PM on the steps of Downing Street shortly after midday.

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Jubilant Keir vows 'change begins NOW' after Labour sweeps Rishi out of No10

Last night Rishi said he took responsibility for the Tory party's election drubbing.

He revealed he had called incoming Labour PM Sir Keir Starmer to congratulate him.

Rishi held his seat in Richmond and Northallerton, but said the British people had delivered a "sobering verdict" on his party.

Sir Keir will become the UK's next prime minister, with Labour storming into Downing Street after securing the required 326 seats.

Speaking at his local polling station, Mr Sunak said: "On this difficult night, I'd like to express my gratitude to the people of the Richmond and Northallerton constituency for your continued support.

On a historic night:

• Labour has reached the required 326 seats  in a  Tory wipeout
• Our experts weigh in on a seismic night in British politics
• Piers Morgan  told our  Never Mind The Ballots  election show that Sir Keir MUST deliver after the Tory disaster
• He is expected to  meet with King Charles  later today
• Sir Keir told  supporters "we did it!"
• Chancellor  Jeremy Hunt  narrowly held onto his seat in Godalming and Ash
• But  ex-Defence Secretary Grant Shapps  became the first Tory big beast to lose out
• He was followed by Leader of the House  Penny Mordaunt , one of eight Cabinet ministers have lost their seats
• Former PM  Liz Truss  also loses her seat
• Tory defector Lee Anderson  claimed the first Reform seat . He was  followed by Nigel Farage , who has become an MP for the first time at the eighth attempt
• Mr Farage warned Labour "will be in trouble very, very quickly"
• Sir Keir's predecessor  Jeremy Corbyn , now standing as an independent, also  held onto Islington North
• Lib Dem leader  Ed Davey  kept his seat in Kingston and Surbiton

"Since I moved here a decade ago. You have made me and my family feel so at home.

"I look forward to continuing to serve as your Member of Parliament. It is an enormous privilege.

"I’m grateful to my agent and constituency team, and I congratulate my opponents here on the energetic and very good-natured campaigns that they have run.

He added: "The Labour Party has won this General Election, and I've called Sir Keir Starmer to congratulate him on his victory.

"Today, power will change hands in a peaceful and orderly manner, with goodwill on all sides.

"That is something that should give us all confidence in our country's stability and future.

"The British people have delivered a sobering verdict tonight, there is much to learn and reflect on - and I take responsibility for the loss.

"To the many good, hard-working Conservative candidates who lost tonight, despite their tireless efforts, their local records and delivery, and their dedication to their communities.

"I am sorry."

Mr Sunak, his wife and their security and entourage left the election count as soon as he had finished making a speech after the result was declared.

It comes as Mr Sunak will reportedly quit as leader of the Conservative Party today after the exit poll predicted a Tory wipeout.

He is expected to announce his resignation this morning, according to sources.

Tim Shipman, chief political commentator for The Sunday Times, told Times Radio it is his understanding the PM will quit today.

But he said Mr Sunak "will stay on until another leader is selected".

He added: "In practice this means holding the fort in parliament for three weeks before the recess."

A desperately disappointing night for the Tories culminated in a number of party big beasts losing their seats, including a record-breaking nine Cabinet ministers.

Ex-Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and Leader of the House Penny Mordaunt, both of whom were expected to throw their hats in the ring for party leadership, lost their respective seats.

Mr Sunak held onto his own, but conceded defeat and revealed he had called Sir Keir "to congratulate him".

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The Tories were also wiped out in Wales, while in Scotland Labour were rampant.

More to follow.

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Jacob Rees-Mogg bids farewell with Chitty Chitty Bang Bang quote

Dan Norris, became the new MP for North East Somerset and Hanham constituency, after defeating Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg.

Friday 5 July 2024 07:14, UK

• Conservatives
• General Election 2024
• Jacob Rees-Mogg

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How election night unfolded

Starmer: 'Change begins now'

Nigel Farage elected as MP

Who is new PM Sir Keir Starmer?

Jess Phillips heckled during speech

What happens on a PM's last day?

Liz Truss loses seat to Labour

How did Labour win a landslide?

'The Labour Party have won'

Opinion | Lou Gehrig’s Fourth of July farewell

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Gary Cooper would deliver the speech in the 1942 biopic “Pride of the Yankees,” and as Gehrig’s biographer Richard Sandomir has pointed out, it is that film , not old newsreels or recordings, that has made the speech accessible over the years.

But what makes the speech memorable today is more than Cooper’s moving delivery or Gehrig’s long career as a first baseman for the Yankees. The speech is memorable because of the passion with which it makes the case for kindness as a public and private virtue and because it has a sequel: the decision Gehrig made after he left baseball to help others by working as a parole commissioner in the administration of New York City Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia.

“I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth,” Gehrig declared in the lines of his speech that are most often quoted. Unexpected words from someone whom illness was forcing into early retirement. But Gehrig was not being ironic in saying he was lucky. ALS — his “tough break,” as Gehrig called it — could not, he believed, negate the good life he had led.

For Gehrig that good life consisted of “kindness and encouragement from you fans . . . a mother and father who work all their lives so you can have an education . . . a wife who has been a tower of strength.” It did not mean the number of home runs he hit or leaving baseball with a lifetime batting average of .340.

In his farewell speech Gehrig was aligning himself with feelings that we don’t typically associate with professional sports, especially today when fist pumps and trash talk are routine. Gehrig feared that many would look on what he said as too sentimental. Later in the Yankees clubhouse, surrounded by teammates and a roomful of reporters, Gehrig asked, “Did my speech sound silly?”

The fans who heard Gehrig speak certainly did not think so. Much of his career had been played during the Great Depression of the 1930s. If the kindness and compassion that mattered so much to him were not always part of baseball, they were part of the political legacy of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal.

A few years before Gehrig’s farewell speech, Roosevelt had used a different New York sports arena, Madison Square Garden, to deliver a campaign address in which he insisted that kindness and compassion, more than any specific political program, were the core of the New Deal. “Your government is still on the same side of the street as the Good Samaritan and not with those who pass by on the other side,” Roosevelt declared.

After he left baseball, Gehrig did not look on the second act of his life as anticlimactic. “I have an awful lot to live for,” he insisted at the end of his farewell speech.

In spending as much time as his health would allow working for the LaGuardia administration as a parole commissioner, Gehrig was able to be a vital part of the city he had grown up in and gone to college in. The position, which paid $5,700 a year , far less than Gehrig’s Yankees salary, centered on giving others hope for a second chance in life — exactly what he wanted for himself.

As his disease eroded his mobility, Gehrig’s wife Eleanor drove him everywhere, taking him from their home in Riverdale to his office in Manhattan and from there to local jails. Only reluctantly did Gehrig stop his work for the LaGuardia administration

Unlike the most famous contemporary victim of ALS, the English theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, who lived more than 50 years with the disease , Gehrig survived  just two years  after his diagnosis by doctors at the Mayo Clinic.

Gehrig died quietly on June 2, 1941, but not before expressing his hope in a letter to Mayor LaGuardia  that he might get well enough to return to his job. At his family’s request, there was  no eulogy at his funeral service . Whatever needed to be said about him had come two years earlier in his own goodbye to baseball.

Mills is professor of literature at Sarah Lawrence College and author of “ Like a Holy Crusade: Mississippi 1964 — The Turning of the Civil Rights Movement in America .”

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