How to make special speeches: a retirement speech
How strange it is that, although we may be able to manage human, financial, and physical resources with complete confidence, we are fearful and trembling when called upon to 'say a few words'. Here are more suggestions to help you grapple with any such anxieties...
1. A retirement speech: Focus on the occasion.
Indicate that this is both a happy and a sad occasion - happy because everyone is here to congratulate your retiring colleague on his or her many years with the organisation, and sad because many people 'are sorry to lose you'.
2. Focus on length of service.
Mention the retiree's length of service, focusing in particular on his or her period with the organisation and the changes that have taken place during those years.
3. Outline the retiree's career.
Give a brief outline of the retiree's career in the service of your organisation. You'll need to do your homework.
