how to end a gratitude speech

HowToSayGuide

Master Language Nuances & Express Yourself Globally

Expressing Gratitude at the End of a Speech: Formal and Informal Ways

Concluding a speech with a heartfelt expression of gratitude is an essential way to acknowledge your audience’s time and attention. Whether you’re delivering a formal presentation or engaging in a more informal setting, saying thank you leaves a lasting impression of appreciation. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say thank you in different contexts, providing you with tips and examples along the way.

Formal Expressions of Thanks

When delivering a formal speech, such as during a business conference or an academic event, it’s important to maintain a professional tone. Here are a few ways to express gratitude formally:

1. Thanking the Audience as a Whole

Addressing the audience collectively is a common practice in formal speeches. Here’s an example of how you can express your thanks:

Thank you all for being such an attentive and engaged audience. Your presence here today is greatly appreciated.

2. Expressing Appreciation to Specific Individuals

If there are particular individuals you would like to acknowledge, consider mentioning them by name. This personalized touch can demonstrate your sincerity. For instance:

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Dr. John Smith for his invaluable guidance throughout this research. I am also indebted to my colleagues, Sarah and Michael, for their unwavering support and collaboration.

Informal Ways to Say Thank You

Informal speeches, such as toasts or informal gatherings, offer a more relaxed atmosphere. Here are a few ways to express your gratitude informally:

1. Keep It Simple and Sincere

When speaking in a casual setting, simplicity and sincerity can go a long way. Consider using straightforward language to express your appreciation:

Thank you, everyone! Your presence here means a lot to me, and I am truly grateful for your support.

2. Inject Humor or Personal Anecdotes

Injecting humor or sharing personal anecdotes can create a warm and memorable moment. Tailor your expression of thanks to the specific audience and occasion. Here’s an example:

Oh, before I conclude, let me share a funny story. Last week, when I was rehearsing this speech, my dog decided to join me on stage. Thankfully, you’re a far better audience than my mischievous pup. Thank you all for being here tonight!

Combining Formality and Warmth

Expressing gratitude can be a balancing act, particularly in instances where you want to maintain professionalism while also conveying warmth and appreciation. Here are some suggestions:

1. Blend Personal Touches with the Bigger Picture

Integrate personal anecdotes into a broader message of gratitude to create a heartfelt but still formal conclusion:

As I stand here, reminiscing about the journey we’ve embarked on together, I cannot help but think of the countless individuals who have shaped and guided me. This room is filled with such remarkable souls, and I am truly grateful for every one of you. Thank you for being an integral part of my growth.

2. Express Hope for a Lasting Connection

Show gratitude while expressing a desire for ongoing connections and future collaborations:

In closing, I extend my sincere thanks to each and every one of you for gracing this occasion with your presence. I hope that our paths will continue to cross, and that together we can achieve even greater heights. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey.

Tips for Delivering Your Thank-You Message

As you approach the end of your speech, remember these tips to effectively convey your gratitude:

• Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with your audience while expressing your thanks, as it demonstrates sincerity.
• Tone of Voice: Modulate your voice to convey your appreciation authentically.
• Body Language: Use open and welcoming body language, such as smiling and open palms, to enhance your message.
• Timing: Place your expression of gratitude towards the end of your speech, allowing it to leave a lasting impression.

Saying thank you at the end of a speech is a powerful gesture that leaves a positive impact on your audience. Whether you choose a formal or informal approach, ensure your expression of gratitude reflects the tone and context of your speech. Remember to maintain an authentic and warm tone, and consider tailoring your words to resonate with the specific audience, creating a lasting connection based on appreciation.

Related Posts

How to say a prayer for dinner: a guide for expressing gratitude, how to say a short thank you: guide to expressing gratitude, how to say appreciate to someone: guide to expressing gratitude, how to say appreciate your boss: a guide on expressing gratitude, how to say "appreciate your response": a guide to expressing gratitude, how to say arigatou: a guide to expressing gratitude in japanese, how to say "blessed to have you": guide to expressing gratitude, how to say deep thank you: a guide to expressing gratitude.

Written by Meredith Alisha

Hi there! I’m Meredith, a passionate linguist with a knack for connecting cultures through language. In my spare time, you’ll find me perusing international literature or trying out local dishes from around the globe. My love for languages extends well beyond casual interest, manifesting itself in my comprehensive guides on how to express various phrases and words in different languages. Beyond that, I dabble in guides on job discussions, social interactions, and more, all with the aim of enhancing communication worldwide. Join me on this global journey filled with words, culture, and endless learning.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Guide on How to Say Berdache: Formal and Informal Ways, Tips, and Examples

How to say survival in different languages: a comprehensive guide.

Speak 2 Impress

No products in the cart.

The Ultimate Guide to Giving a Thank You Speech: Examples and Tips

Are you feeling anxious about giving a thank you speech? I get it – public speaking can be nerve-wracking. But, fear not! I have been there too, and after years of practice and research, I’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you craft and deliver a memorable thank you speech. Whether it’s for an event or acknowledging the support of friends and family , this guide has got you covered. So, let’s get started on making your next thank you speech one to remember !

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Practice makes perfect . Practicing your thank you speech helps build confidence and improves delivery. Use a mirror, record yourself, or rehearse in the actual setting to get comfortable.
• Be genuine and specific when expressing gratitude. Mentioning specific examples of how someone helped you makes your speech more impactful and meaningful.
• Connect with your audience from the start. Acknowledge their presence and effort to attend, making them feel valued and important right from the beginning.
• Share personal stories or anecdotes to make your thank you speech relatable and memorable. This approach strengthens your connection with the audience.
• Proper preparation is key for a successful delivery. Prepare an outline, maintain good eye contact, use positive body language, manage nervousness, speak clearly at a moderate pace, use expressive gestures, take pauses when necessary, and handle mistakes gracefully .

Express gratitude and honor

Showing gratitude is key in a thank you speech. I learned this both from my own experiences and while crafting the ultimate guide on giving thank you speeches. It’s about honoring those who’ve supported, encouraged, or helped us reach our goals.

In every thank you speech, it’s crucial to acknowledge these individuals sincerely and specifically.

I start by greeting the audience warmly before expressing genuine appreciation for the honor or opportunity given to me. Sharing personal stories makes my gratitude more impactful, connecting with my audience on an emotional level.

By thanking specific people for their unique contributions, I show true acknowledgment and respect for their support and encouragement in my journey.

Understanding the Purpose of a Thank You Speech

Understanding the Purpose of a Thank You Speech is essential. It’s about acknowledging the audience and connecting the gesture to a bigger picture.

Acknowledge the audience

Starting your thank you speech by acknowledging the audience sets a welcoming tone . You show them their presence matters. Say something like, “I’m thrilled to see so many familiar faces here today.” This makes everyone feel included and important right from the start.

You must also recognize the effort people made to attend . Mention, “Your support by just being here is greatly appreciated.” It instantly connects you with your listeners , making your words more impactful.

Acknowledging the audience isn’t just polite; it’s crucial for making your speech memorable and engaging.

Connect the gesture and reward to a bigger picture

When expressing gratitude, connect the gesture of thanks to a bigger purpose or impact . Show how the act of thanking someone is part of a larger cycle of kindness and support in our lives.

By linking the gesture and reward to a wider context , such as the impact on your work, relationships, or community, you create a more meaningful and resonant thank you speech that goes beyond simple words of appreciation.

Now let’s dive into how to write an impactful thank you speech for different occasions.

How to Write a Thank You Speech

Identify who to thank and reflect on what you are thanking them for. Express the significance of their gifts or support .

Identify who to thank

When crafting a thank you speech, it’s crucial to identify everyone who deserves appreciation. This includes colleagues, friends and family members , as well as any other supporters or benefactors .

Acknowledging their contributions is an important part of delivering a meaningful thank you speech that truly expresses gratitude. Now let’s delve into reflecting on what you are thanking them for in the next section.

Reflect on what you are thanking them for

In my thank you speech, I reflect on the reasons for expressing gratitude . It’s essential to articulate why we are thankful, whether it’s for support during a difficult time or acknowledgement of hard work and dedication.

This provides depth and sincerity to the expression of appreciation. By reflecting on what we are thanking them for, we ensure that our gratitude is specific and heartfelt , making it more meaningful for both the speaker and the audience .

By thoughtfully considering what we’re thanking others for, we can craft a genuine message that resonates with our listeners. Whether it’s acknowledging their unwavering support through challenging times or recognizing their outstanding contributions , reflecting on the reasons behind our gratitude brings authenticity to our thank you speech.

Express the significance of their gifts or support

Now, let’s talk about why it’s important to express the significance of the gifts or support you’ve received. When acknowledging someone’s contribution , it’s crucial to explain how their help made a difference.

This helps them understand the impact they’ve had and reinforces your gratitude . By highlighting the value of their support, you show sincerity and deepen your connection with your audience.

It also adds depth to your speech and makes it more meaningful for both you and your supporters.

Remember, expressing the significance of their gifts or support can elevate your thank you speech from a simple acknowledgment to a heartfelt recognition that resonates with everyone involved.

Delivering a Thank You Speech

Prepare and practice for a successful delivery . Read on to learn more about tips for delivering a thank you speech!

Preparation and practice

To prepare for delivering a thank you speech, I recommend practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself to improve your delivery. Start by preparing an outline with key points and practice speaking naturally without memorizing every word.

Remember to focus on maintaining good eye contact , using positive body language, and managing any nervousness through controlled breathing . Additionally, rehearse in the actual setting if possible to get comfortable with the space and equipment you’ll be using during your speech.

After preparation comes practice; this is where confidence grows. Aim for clarity and articulate speech by slowly pronouncing each word while keeping a steady pace. Practice expressing gratitude sincerely and avoid rushing through your words during the real thing.

Tips for a successful delivery

After thorough preparation and practice, it’s time to focus on delivering your thank you speech. Maintain good posture and make eye contact with the audience to establish a connection.

Speak clearly and at a moderate pace so everyone can follow along without feeling rushed or bored. Engage your audience by using expressive gestures and varying your tone of voice to emphasize key points.

Remember to breathe and take pauses when necessary – this allows for impactful delivery while maintaining composure.

To ensure an engaging delivery, be genuine in expressing gratitude, letting it shine through in every word you say. By being authentic, you’ll captivate your audience’s attention and leave a lasting impression.

Examples and Templates

Explore diverse sample thank you speeches for various occasions and learn how to personalize your speech – for more insights, read the full blog!

Sample thank you speeches for different occasions

Here are some sample thank you speeches for different occasions. For a graduation speech , I would begin by thanking the faculty and staff for their dedication to our success. Then, I will express my appreciation to my fellow students for their friendship and support.

In a thank you speech at an event, start with thanking the organizers for their hard work and attention to detail. Next, recognize the guests for attending and making the event memorable.

When it comes to acknowledging colleagues , emphasize how their collaboration has contributed to success in challenging projects or tasks. When expressing gratitude towards friends and family , share heartfelt anecdotes or memories that illustrate why they hold a special place in your heart.

Tips for personalizing your speech

Consider sharing personal stories or anecdotes to make your speech more relatable and impactful. Relate the gratitude you’re expressing to specific instances or experiences that made a difference.

Connect with your audience through genuine emotion and sincerity , using language that feels natural to you.

When thanking people, be specific about their contributions . Highlight particular instances where their support was especially meaningful. This specificity adds depth and authenticity to your expression of gratitude, making it resonate more with both the recipients and the audience.

The Ultimate Guide to Giving a Thank You Speech: Examples and Tips offers practical advice. Dr. Avery Thomas, a renowned expert in communication and public speaking with over 20 years of experience, assesses the guide’s utility.

Holding a PhD in Communications from Stanford University, Dr. Thomas has contributed significantly to speechwriting methodology.

Dr. Thomas highlights the guide’s structured approach for crafting speeches that genuinely express gratitude while connecting on a personal level with the audience. According to him, incorporating personal stories as suggested enhances relatability and impact.

He praises the safety measures concerning ethical acknowledgments and transparency about sources of inspiration or help received . Dr. Thomas points out that adherence to such principles ensures speeches are respectful and inclusive.

For daily use, he recommends practicing components of the guide in everyday interactions to bolster confidence and grace when publicly expressing thanks.

Dr. Thomas gives a balanced view on its applicability compared to other resources available, noting its straightforwardness but urging readers also to seek experiences outside their comfort zone for growth.

His final judgment declares this guide exceptionally helpful for beginners in public speaking by providing solid foundations for effective thank-you speeches .

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.

Similar Posts

Sample Welcome to the Family Speeches for Weddings and Engagements

Crafting a heartfelt welcome to the family speech for weddings or engagements often feels like a mountain of a task….

10 Heartwarming Best Friend Speech Examples for Any Occasion

Finding just the right words to honor a best friend can often feel like an overwhelming task. I know what…

5 Engaging Toastmaster Speech 5 Ideas to Keep Your Audience Captivated

Searching for that perfect speech topic can feel like a daunting task. Believe me, I understand the struggle of trying…

The Ultimate Guide to Crafting a Memorable Christmas Party Speech

Crafting a Christmas party speech that leaves a lasting impression might feel daunting. I understand that anxiety, having stood where…

Mastering the Art of How to Deliver an Impromptu Speech

Ever found yourself suddenly thrust into the spotlight, expected to deliver a speech with zero prep time? My heart used…

Best Thanksgiving Speech Ideas and Examples for a Memorable Celebration

Crafting the perfect Thanksgiving speech can seem like a daunting task. I understand the trembles that come with the thought…

Thank you speech: how to perfect cordiality in a speech

Appreciation is the sincerest form of flattery. It makes people feel seen, and their efforts feel recognized.

Any leader worth their salt knows that the key to winning the loyalties of their team is regular appreciation.

Giving a thank you speech is not just good manners but gives an insight into your character. The acknowledgement only works if it comes from the heart and rings genuine. 

So, how do you give a thank you speech? 

Let’s jump into it!

Table of Contents

When is it appropriate to give a thank you speech?

In a company, at an award function, for friends and family, structure of the opening statement, thanking the speakers after the event, thanking the organization, thanking the organization team, have you missed anyone, concluding your thank you speech, mention people by name, positive ending, get it over with.

You don’t really need an occasion to thank somebody. However, in a more formal setting, there may be occasions that specifically call for it. The following are the times when it is most appropriate to give a thank you speech:

• After getting a promotion
• After celebrating an achievement
• Appreciating your team after tackling a tough project
• When receiving an award or recognition
• When establishing a new venture

The list can go on endlessly as your field might have different occasions to give a vote of thanks. Make sure not to miss any opportunity to acknowledge the reasonable efforts of the people around you!

Things to keep in mind

When you’ve decided to give a thank you speech, you need to keep a couple of things in mind. This advice differs according to why you are giving a thank you speech and who is in your audience.

If your company is celebrating you for a milestone or recognition of hard work, make sure you don’t only talk about yourself.

Be generous with your words when talking about the company itself and the great work it does.

Elaborate on how much you enjoy working here and what exactly the company does the right to make it happen.

This will make sure your higher-ups feel appreciated for the work environment they’ve created.

If you are receiving an award by a third party for your work, make sure you adequately express how honored you will be selected.

It is always a good idea to highlight what a recognized organization it is and how you are happy to be a part of it.

If you’re giving a speech to thank friends and family, the setting is much more intimate. You can drop the formalities and talk about how special these people are to you.

As they have gone the extra mile to appreciate you, make sure you return the favor by talking about how lucky you are to have them and their support.

How to write a thank-you speech?

There is no need to beat around the bush with a thank you speech. You can simply start off by expressing gratitude.

An award or recognition means that you can simply open by thanking the company or organization for the honor.

You don’t need to come armed with quotes. In fact, that might actually seem much more disingenuous. Your opening statement also sets the tone for the rest of your speech.

Some factors might determine how formal or informal you need to be with your opening:

In a formal setting, it is best to keep it cordial. Assuming it is a suit and tie event, most people are dressed up and expecting you to keep it classy as well.

As such, we recommend you go for something along the lines of, “I’m so honored to be taking up this renowned stage. Words cannot express how grateful I feel to be the recipient of this award.”

An informal event can be anything from an intimate gathering of loved ones to anniversary parties of a broader range of friends.

In such an event, you can express yourself more freely and don’t have to hold back.

We suggest opening with something along the lines of, “I can’t believe my luck on being able to be surrounded by such wonderful people. I’m immensely 

grateful for each and every one of you and honored to be taking up the stage tonight.”

We have drafted a script for your opening statement. Feel free to customize it as per your needs.

Good evening, Distinguished [name], Honorable [name], Mr. Chairman, Respect Host/Hostess, and all our beloved guests.

It is my honor and privilege to have been given the opportunity to present a vote of thanks on this momentous occasion.

I am honored to represent [Company/Organization] on this prestigious [Event] stage.

I’d like to give a respectful nod to the entire [other supporting/sponsoring organization, team, crew, special guests present in the audience] that have stood behind me to make this possible.

My gratitude extends to all the speakers as well as organizers and hosts due to whom we’ve all come together on this eventful night.

Another possible scenario as a host is that you might have to thank the line of speakers that took up the stage during an event. Please find and customize the script for this as follows:

Let’s hear a big round of applause for [name speaker], His/her incredible delivery on [speech topic] leaves us all leaving this Event a little more aware. 

Pick up on the central theme and reiterate it as a reminder to the audience and to show the speaker that you were paying attention.

If there are more speakers, then follow suit and consider using these thank you examples:

I’d like to thank our second speaker [name speaker] for her take on [speech topic]. Her view on [central theme] was poignant and worthy of a big round of applause.

Furthermore, let’s also express a sincere appreciation for [name speaker] for gracing our stage with her strong opinions on [speech topic]. [Refer to central theme]

Following up, I’d like to thank [name speaker] for providing such an in-depth analysis of [speech topic]. [Reference]

We are grateful to [name speaker] for having the audience in stitches with her insightful yet light-hearted presentation. [Reference].

I would like to hear a resounding round of applause for [name speaker] for his/her inspirational speech that has surely revved up our drive to achieve more.

We are lucky to have the opportunity to listen to your craft and are leaving here today, all inspired by your beautiful words!

This script is for when you need to express appreciation for the organization that is holding this event. It is usually added to the end of a speech. Feel free to edit it as required.

And last but not least, I would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to [organization] for allowing us to use their beautiful venue.

Our utmost thanks to the logistic support that made this Event the smooth success that it has been. Our appreciation further extends to the technical team and organizers who’ve worked tirelessly for this [fun] evening. 

In the case of sponsors: I would also like to extend my thanks to [brand name] as well as [brand name] for their enormous cooperation in making this Event possible.

Mix and match these various styles so that it doesn’t get repetitive as you speak. 

As they say, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Such is the case with this Event as well. There have been many people working for weeks across multiple group chats and meetings to make this possible.

Getting every detail right and lining up one after other fantastic speakers. Our biggest thank you to the dedicated organizing team for working on every tiny detail and helping create this amazing Event.

I cannot thank everyone enough for their involvement. Each and every one of you is to be credited for your dedication and the willingness to take on the completion outside the realm of their comfort zones! 

Read the room and decide the degree of the flair of formality that needs to be adjusted. People will be happy that their efforts are being recognized. Just make sure not to be too ostentatious about it.

The only thing that is worse than not being appreciated for your work is being singled out or left out.

Make sure you think hard about all the people that have put in their time and effort. Are you sure you haven’t missed anybody? How about anybody from the following list?

• People who sent out invitations
• Special guests who made time for the Event
• People behind the technical arrangements
• The team responsible for location hunting, stage setting and lighting
• Any musicians or other performing entertainers
• People in the catering team
• People from the press and media who are covering the Event

Now all your thank you speech needs is a neat bow to tie it up cleanly. Try this on for size:

Mr. Chairman, ladies, and gentlemen, I would like to thank all of you for being a wonderful audience.

It has been an absolute pleasure to have such a delightful crowd presence. Once again, I’d like to give a big round of applause to all of the speakers for gracing our stage with their well-refined speeches. One last round of applause for all of us here, thank you very much!

Extra Tips to Keep in Mind

While we’ve covered most of our tips, sometimes the simple things can get away from us. And you know what they say, “Better safe than sorry.” So here they are:

A handy tip for appreciation versus criticism is this: When acknowledging people for their good work, always use their name, however, when handing out criticism in front of a crowd, try to generalize as otherwise, you will end up embarrassing people. 

Instead of simply thanking your team, use their names if possible in the given time limit. This will make your appreciation seem much more personalized.

Make a list of all the people you’d genuinely like to thank. If you have time, briefly talk about how they’ve helped you in your journey.

Emphasize how important they’ve been and how. Speak from the heart, and it will definitely ring true.

For phrasing, try something along the lines of:

“From the bottom of my heart, I’d like to give a special thanks to some of the amazing people without whom I cannot imagine standing up here on this stage. Name your supporters and give out your sincere thanks.

If you have extra time, you might want to add in a few lines to thank your supervisor or boss as well. It is customary to make sure they don’t feel left out.

It can be challenging to achieve this as we’re sure any crowd consists of so many people that someone is bound to feel left out.

Your goal is, don’t leave out any of the higher-ups and the important people. But don’t start listing just about everybody just because they are in the crowd. This can reduce the impact of your gratitude for people who have actually helped you.

You’ve given your thanks to so many people who’ve made you who you are. The stage has gotten quite emotional at this point, and your audience is looking at you.

You need to end on a high note. If you simply say your thanks and leave, it can feel incomplete and lacking.

Try to say something inspirational and uplifting. Suppose you’re being recognized for your work.

In that case, you can give your team a motivational boost by saying, “The journey is not yet over, but I can’t imagine being on this ride with any team that is more dedicated or competent than the one at [name].

Let’s wear these tires out and keep this smooth ride going!”

You can also go for dedication to your strongest support or mentor. Something like, “And lastly, I want to leave you with the words of my strongest support, my [name].

When I was full of doubts and insecurities, they’re the ones who said [something inspirational].

This award is for you and your belief in me. I hope I’ve made you proud. Thank you for everything!”

We know, we know, this is your moment on stage. After all, this is such an honor, and there are so many people to thank.

But your audience is eager to get to the catering table! Be considerate, and keep it clear but brief. You don’t want to take the audience through your entire journey.

A good thank you speech is no longer than two and at most three minutes. Use your time well and remember: It is always better to leave them wanting more than getting them to be like, “Get it over with already!”

How to Write a Meaningful Appreciation Speech

Updated 09/9/2022

Published 06/15/2020

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 ways to show someone that you appreciate them. You can buy them a gift. You can write them a thank-you note. And in some cases, you can give a speech in their honor. There are plenty of occasions when you may find yourself in a position to give an appreciation speech.

Jump ahead to these sections: 

• Steps for Writing an Appreciation Speech

Sample Appreciation Speeches

If you’re graduating from high school or college, you might give a speech thanking friends and family members for their support.

If you own a business, you might tell your employees “ thank you for your support ” as part of a speech. Speeches can also be a great way to say “ I appreciate you ” to the people in your life who support you.

Here, we break down the steps that go into crafting an excellent appreciation speech. We also include excerpts of speeches from an assortment of occasions and audiences to draw inspiration from. 

Step 1: Know Your Audience — And Your Place

Your speech will depend on a variety of factors. But the most important ones to consider are the setting and the crowd. If your speech is a casual toast between friends over a bottle of wine, it will be a lot more casual.

You can rely on personal anecdotes and the language you use will be more personal. If you’re giving a formal speech in front of colleagues though, your tone will be very different. Your speech will be a lot more structured and concise. 

Step 2: Create an Outline

Whether your appreciation speech is long or short, it’s always a good idea to craft an outline ahead of time. This will help you make sure you don’t forget to mention anything you want to cover. Overall, most speeches will break down like the following:

• Introduction: In an introduction, you will let the audience know who you are and give a preface of what you plan to say. For instance, if you’re recognizing a specific person in an appreciation speech, give a quick rundown of why they’re worthy of appreciation.
• Body: Here, you’ll flesh out the points you made in your introduction. You can give more specific examples of things the subject of your speech has done, and you’ll expand on why those actions deserve gratitude. 
• Conclusion: In this final section, you can reiterate the points you made earlier in the speech. 

Step 3: Grab People’s Attention with Gratitude

Start with a strong opening line. In a more formal speech, a quote about gratitude can be an excellent way to set the tone. In a more casual speech, you can avoid a quote. However, you should still stick with the theme of gratitude.   

Step 4: Be Personal and Specific

In casual and formal speeches alike, you should feel free to be specific. If you’re giving a speech in honor of one person, you can list all of the things they do that deserve appreciation. If you’re thanking other people for their support, you can list the ways they helped you.

Personal anecdotes are a lot more engaging for listeners. They will also help you feel more connected to your material. The more connected you feel, the more confident you’ll be in speaking. These personal anecdotes can be funny, poignant, or a blend of the two. Again, this will largely be dictated by your audience and the setting of your speech.    

Step 5: Practice Makes Perfect

For a casual speech like an appreciation toast, you can probably get away with speaking off the cuff. But any kind of pre-planned appreciation speech definitely benefits from repeated practice.

The more comfortable you are with the speech, the easier it will be for you to deliver it. If you don’t know your speech inside and out, there’s a good chance that you can be tripped up by certain words or turns of phrase. 

Step 6: Time Yourself

When you’re practicing your speech, you should also be timing yourself. This means you should have a stopwatch going while you read your speech aloud. Speeches can be deceptive.

A few pages don’t seem like they should take that long to read. If you only read them over in your head, that can reinforce the notion that your speech isn’t that long. But it takes a lot longer to read something aloud than it does reading it to yourself.

If you don’t practice it out loud ahead of time, you may panic in the middle of your actual delivery. If you fear your speech is taking too long, you might start to read faster and faster, which could make the speech incomprehensible. Practicing it out loud can help you hit your ideal time target without having to rush.   

Step 7: Keep Your Notes Handy

Even if you’ve practiced your speech until it’s practically etched into your brain, you always want to keep notes or an outline with you. No matter how much you practice, you may find yourself freezing up in the moment. If you don’t have notes handy, you might flounder. On the other hand though, you also shouldn’t keep your whole speech with you.

If you do, you might find yourself relying on it like a security blanket. You may end up just reading the whole speech straight from the paper without engaging with your audience at all. Both ends of the spectrum are too extreme, so it’s best to find a happy medium. Some people just keep their outline with them.

Other people write out the first sentence of each paragraph to jog their memory and help them orient themselves. As you practice, you’ll find the method that works best for you.

Step 8: Do a Test Run in Front of an Audience

Practicing for a speech on your own is important. But once you feel more comfortable with the speech, you should practice in front of someone. Ideally, you’ll rehearse it in front of people several times until you can keep your nervous responses in check.

This means delivering the speech without your heart racing and your speech speeding up to match.   

Step 9: Weed Out Any Trouble Spots

Every time you practice your speech, you should be refining it until you can’t improve it any further. One of the big things you should be looking out for is your usage of filler words or speech disfluencies.

Speech disfluencies encompass those little noises like “um”, “er”, and “uh” that we tend to use when we aren’t confident. These can make people tune out because your discomfort makes them feel awkward in turn.

As you practice, pay attention to places where you’re inserting those disfluencies. Keep practicing them until you become comfortable enough to leave them out. Or, rewrite those sections so they come to you more naturally.  

Step 10: End On a Good Note

Above all else, remember that this speech is intended to be a positive thing. An appreciation speech should make someone’s day .

Remember to end the speech by reaffirming specifically why you are showing appreciation.    

Now that we’ve gone into what makes a good appreciation speech, let’s see some examples. These are just excerpts from longer speeches, but they may help demonstrate the sort of content you might be looking for. 

Example of appreciation speech for graduation

“As I look around at all my classmates, I realize how much I appreciate you all. Many of us have relied on each other to make it through school and to our graduation day. We supported each other during tough times. We used each other’s examples to fuel us towards getting better grades. When someone was in danger of not graduating, we pulled together to get everyone to the finish line. We all owe a lot to our families for their support. But we should also be sure to appreciate ourselves.” 

Example of appreciation speech for friends

“I’d like to take a moment to raise a glass in appreciation for Bethany. Everyone here has one thing in common — Bethany’s friendship. She has always had an uncanny knack for finding people in need of a community and bringing us together. From there, we’ve been able to find the other things that connect us. But if it weren’t for Bethany, most of us would have missed out on enriching, life-changing friendships. Bethany — here’s to you!”

Example of appreciation speech for employees or a boss

“As the year draws to an end, I’m proud to announce that it’s the company’s strongest year yet. We have grown by leaps and bounds and still managed to maintain profitability. Our client satisfaction scores have never been higher. And each and every one of you has played a role in our success.

"I want to thank our sales division for going above and beyond in meeting our clients’ needs. I want to thank our marketing department for creating materials that are very transparent about our mission. I want to thank the managers for leading their divisions by example. I could stand up here and tell you a half dozen things I appreciate about every person in this room, but I’m sure you’re all ready to hit the buffet line. So I’ll conclude by saying that I appreciate all of your contributions, and am so proud to be on a team with each and every one of you.”

Example of appreciation speech for mom, dad, grandma, or grandpa

“Hello everyone! I’d like to thank all of you for coming here today in celebration of Grandma Joy and Grandpa Bill’s 50th wedding anniversary. As most of you know, I’ve never had a relationship last more than a year. Fifty years is an absolutely mind-boggling level of commitment to someone like me. 

"There are so many reasons to love and appreciate Joy and Bill. There’s all the basic grandparent stuff. Joy taught me how to make amazing cookies and Bill taught me how to change a tire. But they also took me in when my home life was less than ideal. And when they realized some of my friends also had difficult lives at home, they opened up their den as a safe space. On any given day, you could find at least two or three misfit teenagers sleeping on their fold-out couch. 

"Grandma and Grandpa, I’ll never be able to let you know how much I appreciate you. I know you probably don’t think you even did anything special. But you have made so many lives worth living thanks to your compassion and generosity. Thank you for always being there for others, just like you’ve been there for each other for five decades.”

Show People You Appreciate Them Through Meaningful Speeches

There are many ways to show gratitude . An appreciation speech is just one of them. Whether you’re giving a short toast or a lengthy speech, you can communicate your gratitude for someone.

These steps and examples should help you craft an excellent speech. Ultimately though, just remember to be sincere and personal. That’s the real key to successfully showing appreciation. 

Categories:

• Condolences & What To Say

You may also like

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

How to Write a Funeral Speech for Dad From a Daughter

How to Write a Memorable Tribute Speech: Step-By-Step

How to Write a Funeral Thank You Speech: Tips & Examples

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

9 Closing a Speech: End with Power and Let Them Know It is Time to Clap

Open Your Speech With a Bang Close It With a Slam-Dunk Westside Toastmasters

“Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending,” according to poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The first few words of your speech make the audience want to listen and the last few sentences help them decide what they feel about you and your topic. In this chapter, I will explain the function of a conclusion, the format of a conclusion, and I will give you numerous examples of ways to end your speech. Most of this chapter is dedicated to showing you good examples of different types of speech closings. Let’s get started by talking about the purpose of the closing.

A Strong Closing Does Many Things

• Summarizes the points. By restating your points your audience is more likely to remember them.
• Tells the audience when to clap. Let’s face it, it is so awkward when you are done with your speech, and no one claps. Being clear the end is near, relieves the audience of the pressure of wondering if they are clapping at the right time.
• Provides resolution. Your speech should give the audience a sense of resolve or a sense of being challenged.

The Formula for Closing Most Speeches

• Transition statement to ending.
• Review the main points–repeat the thesis.
• If it is a persuasive speech, tell the audience what you want them to do or think.
• Provide a closing statement.

Restate the Thesis

Tell them what you are going to say, say it, tell them what you have said. This speech pattern is useful in most types of speeches because it helps the speaker to remember your key points. As you build your closing, make sure you restate the thesis. A good rule of thumb is to write it in such a way that if the audience were asked to restate the main points, their answer would match closely with your thesis.

EXAMPLE Watch as Stella Young gives her thesis and then restates her thesis at the end of the speech as she wraps up. The thesis of the talk in the introduction: We’ve been sold the lie that disability is a Bad Thing, capital B, capital T. It’s a bad thing, and to live with a disability makes you exceptional. It’s not a bad thing, and it doesn’t make you exceptional. Restates the thesis of the talk at the closing: Disability doesn’t make you exceptional but questioning what you think you know about it does.

Stella Young, I’m not your inspiration, thank you very much. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtPGrLoU5Uk

This next example is from a student’s speech. It is easy to pull out one sentence that clearly summarizes the main points of her speech. Following her summary, she winds the speech down into a thoughtful conclusion and ends with three powerful words.

Now is the time to separate the war on drugs from the war on addiction. T oday you’ve heard the problems, impacts, and solutions of criminalizing addictions. Bruce Callis is 50 years old now. And he is still struggling with his addiction. while you all are sitting out there listening to this, I’m living with it. Bruce Callis is my father and for my entire life, I have watched our misguided system destroy him. The irony here is that we live in a society where we are told to recycle. We recycle paper, aluminum, and electronics. But why don’t we ever consider recycling them most precision think on Earth– the human life. Student Tunnette Powell, Winner of the 2012 Interstate Oratorical Association Contest.

Closing Phrases

After you restate your thesis, you should carefully deliver your closing phrases.  Your closing should provide a resolution to your speech and/or it should challenge the audience. Frantically Speaking writer Hrideep Barot suggests  “a conclusion is like tying a bow or ribbon to a box of your key ideas that your audience will be taking along with them.”

A speech closing is not just about the words you say, but it is also the way you say it. Change the pace near the end of your speech. Let your tone alone should signal the end is near. It is about deliberate voice control, don’t let your voice weakly away.

In the next section, I will cover these ways to end your speech:

End with powerful words End with a quote End with a graphic End with parallel construction End on a positive note End with a challenge End with a question End with inspiration End with well-wishing End with humor End with a call to action End with a feeling of resolve End with a prop

The best way to teach you about advanced closings is to show not tell. For this section, I will briefly explain each type of closing and then provide a video. Each video is queued so you can play the video and watch the closing statement.  I included a transcript under each video if you want to follow along.  It will be most beneficial for you to watch the clip and not just read the text. By watching, you will have a chance to hear the subtle changes in the speaker’s voice as they deliver their closing statements.

End with Powerful Words

As you design your closing, look at the last three to five words and examine them to see if they are strong words. Oftentimes, you can rearrange a sentence to end with a powerful word. (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

Watch this clip for how BJ Miller ends with a powerful thought and a powerful word. 

Parts of me died early on, and that’s something we can all say one way or another. I got to redesign my life around this fact, and I tell you it has been a liberation to realize you can always find a shock of beauty or meaning in what life you have left, like that snowball lasting for a perfect moment, all the while melting away. If we love such moments ferociously, then maybe we can learn to live well — not in spite of death, but because of it. Let death be what takes us, not lack of imagination. BJ Miller, What Really Matters at the End of Life

End by Circling Back to the Opening

Another type of ending is to circle back to what you said in the beginning. You can revisit a quote, share the end to an illustration that was begun in the beginning, or you can put away a prop you got out in the beginning.

Watch this clip for how Zubing Zhang begins and ends with the same quote to circle back around to the main idea. 

She starts by telling a story of bungee jumping off the world’s highest platform and how she saw a sign with a quote that says, “Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.” After telling her own story about pushing her emotional limits, she circles back around at the end by saying, “As the words said high on the bungee platform, “Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.”

Yubing Zhang, Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone. 

End With Quote

If you end your speech with a quote, attend to the following.

• Always say the author of the quote before the quote for example, “I want to leave you with a leadership quote ‘What you do has far greater impact than what you say,’ Steven Covey.” The problem with this ending is that “Stephen Covey” are the last two words of the speech and that is boring. Consider instead this ending. “I think Robin Sharma said it best ‘Leadership is not about a title or a designation. It’s about impact, influence, and inspiration.'” In this arrangement, the last three words are powerful–influence and inspiration.
• Provided context for the quote before or after. Make sure the quote is meaningful and not just an easy way to end.

Watch this clip for how Sir Ken Robinson ends with a quote. Notice how he says the author and then the quote.

Also, notice how he then ties his speech to the quote with a final few sentences and ends with the powerful word–“revolution” and how he uses a strong vocal emphasis as he says his last word. (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

There’s a wonderful quote from Benjamin Franklin. “There are three sorts of people in the world: Those who are immovable, people who don’t get it, or don’t want to do anything about it; there are people who are movable, people who see the need for change and are prepared to listen to it; and there are people who move, people who make things happen.” And if we can encourage more people, that will be a movement. And if the movement is strong enough, that’s, in the best sense of the word, a revolution. And that’s what we need.

Sir Ken Robinson, How to Escape Education’s Death Valley. 

End with a Graphic

You might want to use a visual to make your final point. Bringing in a picture, graphic, or object, reengages the audience to pay attention to your final ideas.

Watch this clip for how Barry Schartz uses the magic words “so to conclude” and then he creatively uses a picture of a fishbowl to narrow in on his point. Notice how his final word is spoken with urgency as he says “disaster.” (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

 So, to conclude. (He shows a picture of fish in a fishbowl) He says, “You can be anything you want to be — no limits.” You’re supposed to read this cartoon and, being a sophisticated person, say, “Ah! What does this fish know? Nothing is possible in this fishbowl.” Impoverished imagination, a myopic view of the world –that’s the way I read it at first. The more I thought about it, however, the more I came to the view that this fish knows something. Because the truth of the matter is, if you shatter the fishbowl so that everything is possible, you don’t have freedom. You have paralysis. If you shatter this fishbowl so that everything is possible, you decrease satisfaction. You increase paralysis, and you decrease satisfaction. Everybody needs a fishbowl. This one is almost certainly too limited –perhaps even for the fish, certainly for us. But the absence of some metaphorical fishbowl is a recipe for misery and, I suspect, disaster. Barry Schwartz, The Paradox of Choice

End with Parallel Construction

Parallel construction is a series of repeated phrases. It can be a powerful tool to use in a persuasive speech as it creates a feeling of importance.

Watch this clip for how Malala Yousafzai ends with a series of parallel statements to build momentum. Notice how her pace perfectly matches her words and you feel her strength when she ends with “education first.” (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

Dear brothers and sisters, we must not forget that millions of people are suffering from poverty, injustice, and ignorance. We must not forget that millions of children are out of schools. We must not forget that our sisters and brothers are waiting for a bright peaceful future. So let us wage a global struggle against illiteracy, poverty, and terrorism, and let us pick up our books and pens. They are our most powerful weapons. One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world. Education is the only solution. Education First.

Malala Yousafzai,  United Nations Youth Assembly

End on a Positive Note

Audiences are constantly evaluating a speaker to determine their attitude and motivation. As you consider your speech closing, ask yourself what type of impression do you want to leave?  Do you want to leave them with depression or hope? Sadness or promise? Most of the time, audiences will receive messages that end positively better than speeches that end negatively.

In this speech sample, Hans Rosling showed the audience some hard statistics and he even pointed fingers at the audience as part of the problem. To help them hear his main point, he wisely ends on a positive note.

Watch this clip for how Hans Rosling ends this thought-provoking talk on a positive note. (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

Now, when thinking about where all this leaves us, I have just one little humble advice for you, besides everything else, look at the data. Look at the facts about the world and you will see where we are today and how we can move forwards with all these billions on our wonderful planet. The challenge of extreme poverty has been greatly reduced and it’s for the first time in history within our power to end it for good. The challenge of population growth is, in fact, already being solved, the number of children has stopped growing.  And for the challenge for climate change, we can still avoid the worst, but that requires the richest, as soon as possible, find a way to use their set their use of resources and energy at a level that, step by step, can be shared by 10 billion or 11 billion by the end of this century. I’ve never called myself an optimist, but I do say I’m a possibilist and I also say the world is much better than many of you think.

Hans Rosling, Facts about the Population.

End with a Challenge

Leave the audience with a doable personal challenge. Help them mentally make sense of all the information that you shared by helping them know how to file it away and how to use it.

Watch this clip for how Melissa Butler ends with a challenge. (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

So, I challenge each of you, when you go home today, look at yourself in the mirror, see all of you, look at all of your greatness that you embody, accept it, and love it. And finally, when you leave the house tomorrow, try to extend that same love and acceptance to someone who doesn’t look like you . Melissa Butler, Why You Think You’re Ugly. 

Watch this clip as Darren LaCroix literally falls face down to anchor the point that when we fall, we “fall forward.” (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

Darren LaCroix talks about taking risks and falling down and getting back up, he literally and purposefully falls down during his speech and ends this way: What’s your next step… take it. I didn’t want to look back at my life and say you know I never did try that comedy thing, but I died debt-free. All of us are headed toward that goal we are going to teach a point where we get stuck and our feet are like in cement and we can’t move but we’re so afraid of that ouch but we forget that if we lean forward and take a risk–(He falls face down) and we fall on our face. When we get up, notice, you still made progress. So please, with me, go ahead and fall. But fall forward. Darren LaCroiz, Winning Speech delivered at National Speech Association

End with a Question

Asking a question at the end is one way to reengage the audience. It helps them think about what your topic might mean for them.

Watch this clip for how David Eagleman reminds us about why his topic is important and then ends with a question. Notice how he pauses before his final question and how he changes the pace of his speech for the final sentence. (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

So I think there’s really no end to the possibilities on the horizon for human expansion. Just imagine an astronaut being able to feel the overall health of the International Space Station, or, for that matter, having you feel the invisible states of your own health, like your blood sugar and the state of your microbiome, or having 360-degree vision or seeing in infrared or ultraviolet. So the key is this: As we move into the future, we’re going to increasingly be able to choose our own peripheral devices. We no longer have to wait for Mother Nature’s sensory gifts on her timescales, but instead, like any good parent, she’s given us the tools that we need to go out and define our own trajectory. So the question now is, how do you want to go out and experience your universe?

David Eagleman, Can We Create New Senses for Humans? 

Watch this clip for how Lera Boroditsky ends with a personal note and a  powerful final question. (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

I want to leave you with this final thought. I’ve told you about how speakers of different languages think differently, but of course, that’s not about how people elsewhere think. It’s about how you think. It’s how the language that you speak shapes the way that you think. And that gives you the opportunity to ask, “Why do I think the way that I do?” “How could I think differently?” And also,  “What thoughts do I wish to create?” Lera Boroditsky, How Language Shapes the Way We Think

End with Inspiration

“Inspiring your audience is all about helping them see their own vision, not yours.”

You may want to end your speech with inspiring and encouraging words. Pick words that resonate with most of your audience and deliver them in such a way that your audience feels your lift in emotion.

Watch this clip for how Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie ends with an inspiring final note and a powerful last few words “regain a kind of paradise” (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

Stories matter. Many stories matter. Stories have been used to dispossess and to malign, but stories can also be used to empower and humanize. Stories can break the dignity of a people, but stories can also repair that broken dignity.

I would like to end with this thought:   That when we reject the single-story,   when we realize that there is never a single story   about any place,   we regain a kind of paradise.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie,  The Danger of a Single Story  

Watch this clip for how Dan Pink ends with an inspiring final note. (I have the video cued to play just the closing) Let me wrap up. There is a mismatch between what science knows and what business does. Here is what science knows. One: Those 20th century rewards, those motivators we think are a natural part of business, do work, but only in a surprisingly narrow band of circumstances. Two: Those if-then rewards often destroy creativity. Three: The secret to high performance isn’t rewards and punishments, but that unseen intrinsic drive– the drive to do things for their own sake. The drive to do things cause they matter.

And here’s the best part. We already know this. The science confirms what we know in our hearts. So, if we repair this mismatch between what science  knows and what business does, if we bring our motivation, notions of motivation into the 21st century, if we get past this lazy, dangerous, ideology of carrots and sticks, we can strengthen our businesses, we can solve a lot of those candle problems, and maybe, maybe — we can change the world. I rest my case. Dan Pink, The Puzzle of Motivation

End with Well Wishing

There are several types of closings where the speaker wished the audience well.

The Benediction Close: M ay God bless and keep you…. The Presidential Close: God bless you and may God bless the USA The Congratulatory Close: I congratulate you on your accomplishment and wish you continued success. 

End with Humor

You can end on a fun lighthearted note. It is important to always run your humor by a variety of people to make sure you are funny, and your humor is appropriate.

Watch this clip for how Andrew Dunham uses humor throughout his speech and ends with a funny one-liner. (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

I wish you all the best as we begin this journey on our paths and I sincerely hope and pray that your time and success have proven to be as memorable and spiritually rewarding as mine. If not, there’s always summer school.

Andrew Dunham, Valedictorian Comes Out As Autistic During Speech

End with a Call to Action

If you are delivering a persuasive speech, let the audience know exactly what you want them to do.

End with a Feeling of Resolve

Paul Harvey made famous the line “And now you know…the rest of the story.” Your closing should allow us to know the rest of the story or to know how a situation was resolved.

Watch this clip for how Lucy Hone ends this tough but inspiring talk with a feeling of resolve (I have the video cued to play just the closing)

https://youtu.be/9-5SMpg7Q0k?t=913 If you ever find yourself in a situation where you think there’s no way I’m coming back from this, I urge you to lean into these strategies and think again. I won’t pretend that thinking this way is easy and it doesn’t remove all the pain. But if I’ve learned anything over the last five years, it is that thinking this way really does help. More than anything it has shown me that  it is possible  to live and grieve at the same time. And for that I will be always grateful. Lucy Hone, The Three Secrets of Resilient People

End with a Prop

Nancy Duarte says you should give your audience, SOMETHING THEY  will ALWAYS REMEMBER–S.T.A.R. One way to do that is with an action or statement that will have the audience talking about it for a long time. President Obama did it with a mic drop.

Memorize Your Conclusion

End on time.

Do not diminish the effect of a great speech with a bloated, aimless conclusion. Dan Rothwell.

“Times about up.”

Don’t end with any references to time. It is like a giant stop sign saying, “stop listening.”  Don’t highlight that you ran over time or that it is almost time for lunch. You want them to think about your speech, not the clock.

“Any Questions?”

You want them to feel a sense of closure for your speech.  End with something powerful and let them applaud.  After the applause, you can offer to answer questions. Similarly, projecting your last slide with the words, “Any Questions” is a weak ending.

“Let Me Add This Point I Missed”

If you forget something in the body of your speech, it is usually best to leave it out.  Most of the time you are the only one who will miss it.

“Thank You to the Team”

There is a time to thank the organizers and those who helped you but it is not at the end of your speech. Your focus should be on your audience and what they need and what they need to hear is your idea.  Send a thank you letter to the team if you want them to feel your appreciation.

“I’m Sorry”

“Sorry again for the technology issue,” “I apologize for going over time, ” “I regret I have no answer to this.” These are all negative phrases.  Keep to your topic that is what they need to hear and stay focused.

“I’ll Close with this Video”

No, you should close with talking about the big idea.

If you don’t have a plan at the end, you will ramble. “Steer clear of meandering endings they kill a story,” according to the Moth Storytelling website. “Your last line should be clear in your head before you start. Yes, bring the audience along with you as you contemplate what transpires in your story, but remember, you are driving the story, and must know the final destination. Keep your hands on the wheel!”

To Thank or Not to Thank, That is the Question

There is a debate amongst speech professionals, speech teachers, and speech coaches about whether or not you should thank the audience. Here are their main arguments.

Why You Should Not Say Thank You

• You want to end with powerful words. “Thank you” are not strong words.
• The recency effect suggests they will remember the last words you spoke. You want them to remember more than just “thank you.”
• It is not a very creative way to end.
• It can be a sign of a lazy speaker, “I have no idea how to end this, I’ve run out of good things to say so I’ll say ‘Thank you’ so you will clap now.”

Why You Should Say Thank You

• It has come to be the expected ending in many settings. Violating their expectations can cause them to have a negative reaction.
• It clearly signals you are finished so the audience knows when to clap. The relieves the pressure from both you and the audience.
• It expresses gratitude.

I will leave it up to you to decide what works for you. As for me, I plan on trying to find more creative ways to end other than just saying “thank you.”

Maximizing the Primacy Recency Effect

If I were to read you a list of thirty things on my grocery list and then asked you to list all that you can remember, chances are you would remember the first times on the list and the last items on the list ( and any ones you found interesting from the middle). When people engage in listening, they tend to remember the first and last things they hear, it is called the primacy-recency effect. T his is just one more reason that your introduction and conclusion should be so well planned out. It is those first words and last words that the audience is going to remember. 

The primacy recency effect influences, not only what people pay attention to in a speech, but also which speech we pay the most attention to in a series of speeches. For example, if there is a lineup of six speakers, the first and last speakers tend to get the most attention.

As a speaker, you can use this information to your advantage by volunteering to go first or last. If you are giving a long presentation, you can break it up by allowing the audience to move around or talk to a neighbor. When you come back from break, you have re-engaged that primacy effect and moved them back to a high state of attention.

Do You Have Everything You Need for a Strong Closing?

• Have I signaled my speech is coming to an end with my words or my voice?
• Have I restated my main points?
• If I am persuading my audience, do they know what I want them to do or think?
• Have I written the last three to five words in such a way that I end with powerful words?
• Have I memorized my closing?

Getting Off the Platform is Part of Your Closing

Plan on making a strong exit. Whether you are stepping off a stage or simply going to your seat, you should consider that the audience is watching you.

I have had students who finished their speech and then walked over to the trashcan and in a large, exaggerated movement, they threw their notecards in the trash. In our minds, we threw their message away with those cards. I’ve seen speakers, sit in their chairs and then announce, “I can’t believe my hands were shaking so much.” I’ve sat there and thought, “I didn’t notice.” I then realized that the comments they made influenced my perception of them and my perception of their topic.

You said your last word and the audience is applauding, now what? Look at your audience and smile and nod in appreciation before walking off the stage. If you will be answering questions, wait until after the applause stops to begin your question and answering period.

When practicing your speech, it is a good idea to start from your chair, walk up to a spot and then give your speech, and then walk back to your chair and sit down. Your “speech” impression begins and ends from your chair.

Key Takeaways

Remember This!

• A speech closing should include a review of the main points and a purposeful closing sentence.
• Persuasive speech endings should tell the audience specifically what they should do or think about.
• The recency effect suggests that people remember the most recent things they have heard which is one reason the closing is so important.
• Chance the pace of your speech and the tone of your voice to signal the end of the speech.

Please share your feedback, suggestions, corrections, and ideas.

I want to hear from you. 

Do you have an activity to include? Did you notice a typo that I should correct? Are you planning to use this as a resource and do you want me to know about it? Do you want to tell me something that really helped you?

Click here to share your feedback. 

Adichie, C.N. (2009). The danger of a single story. [Video]. YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9Ihs241zeg Standard YouTube License.

Anderson, C. (2016). TED talks: The official TED guide to public speaking. Mariner Books.

Barot, H.  Fifteen powerful speech ending lines (and tips to create your own). Frantically Speaking. https://franticallyspeaking.com/15-powerful-speech-ending-lines-and-tips-to-create-your-own/

Boroditsky, L. (2017). How language shapes the way we think.  https://www.ted.com/talks/lera_boroditsky_how_language_shapes_the_way_we_think  Standard Youtube License. 

Butler, M. (2018). Why you think you’re ugly. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imCBztvKgus  Standard YouTube License. 

Dunham. A. (2019). Valedictorian comes out as autistic during speech. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtPGrLoU5Uk  Standard Youtube License. 

Eagleman, D. (2015). Can we create new senses for humans?[Video]. YouTube  https://youtu.be/4c1lqFXHvqI  Standard YouTube License. 

Hone, L. (2019).  The three secrets of resilient people. [Video]. YouTube  https://youtu.be/NWH8N-BvhAw  Standard YouTube License. 

Jeff, P. (2009). Ten ways to end your speech with a bang. http://sixminutes.dlugan.com/10-ways-to-end-your-speech

Jobs, S. (2005). You’ve got to find what you love. https://news.stanford.edu/2005/06/14/jobs-061505/

Khanna, P. (2016). Let the head of TED show you how to end your speech with power. https://www.fastcompany.com/3059459/let-the-head-of-ted-show-you-how-to-end-your-speech-with-p

Karia, A. (2013). How to open and close a TED talk (or any other speech or presentation). https://akashkaria.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/HowtoOpenandCloseaTEDTalk.pdf

LaCroix, D. (2001). World champion of public speaking. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUDCzbmLV-0  Standard YouTube License. 

Mandela, N. (2011). Speech from the dock in the Rivonia trial.[Video]. YouTube https://www.nelsonmandela.org/news/entry/i-am-prepared-to-die  Standard YouTube License. 

Mandela, N. (1994). Presidential Inaugural Speech. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.americanrhetoric.com/speeches/nelsonmandelainauguralspeech.htm  Standard YouTube License. 

Miller, B.J. (2015). What really matters at the end of life. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.ted.com/talks/bj_miller_what_really_matters_at_the_end_of_life?language=en  Standard YouTube License. 

Moth. (2021). Storytelling tips and tricks: How to tell a successful story. https://themoth.org/share-your-story/storytelling-tips-tricks 

Obama, B. (2016). White House correspondents dinner. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxFkEj7KPC0  Standard YouTube License. 

Pink, D. (2009). The puzzle of motivation. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.ted.com/talks/dan_pink_the_puzzle_of_motivation  Standard YouTube License. 

Rothwell, D. (2014). Practically Speaking. Oxford University Press.Robinson, K. (2013). How to escape education’s death valley. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wX78iKhInsc  Standard YouTube License. 

Rosling, H. (2014). Don’t Panic-Hans Rosling showing the facts about population.[Video]. YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FACK2knC08E  Standard YouTube License. 

Schwartz, B. (2005). The paradox of choice. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.ted.com/talks/barry_schwartz_the_paradox_of_choice  Standard YouTube License. 

Toastmasters International. (2016). Concluding your Speech. https://www.toastmasters.org/Resources/Concluding-Your-Speech

Young, S. (2014). I’m not your inspiration, thank you very much. [Video]. YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtPGrLoU5Uk  Standard YouTube License. 

Yousafzai, M. (2013). Malala Yousafzai addresses United Nations Youth Assembly. [Video]. YouTube https://youtu.be/3rNhZu3ttIU  Standard YouTube License. 

Zhang, Y. (2015). Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. [Video]. YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmN4xOGkxGo  Standard YouTube License. 

Media Attributions

• Audience clapping © Alex Motoc is licensed under a CC BY (Attribution) license
• jose-aragones-81QkOoPGahY-unsplash © Jose Aragones is licensed under a CC BY (Attribution) license

Advanced Public Speaking Copyright © 2021 by Lynn Meade is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

15 Powerful Speech Ending Lines (And Tips to Create Your Own)

Hitiksha jain.

• Public Speaking , Speech Writing

A powerful speech ending line helps you recapture the essence of your speech: your main points and the purpose of why you spoke.

Basically, it is a summary of your dominant points. 

The words you say at the beginning, and especially at the end of your talk will be remembered longer than any other part of your speech. (This doesn’t mean the body of your speech has no importance.)

The beginning of your speech needs to be strong because it grips the attention of your audience. If that falls apart, they might lose interest in your speech. To avoid such a situation, here’s an article on 15 Powerful Speech Opening Lines (And How to Create Your Own) that you can refer to.

It has happened time after time- a speaker has concluded his speech with no conclusion or a simple “Thank you!” which made their impactful and amazing speech entirely fall apart.

An ineffective conclusion or no conclusion makes your speech lose its charm and the energy that has been created. This leaves your audience in a state of confusion and disappointment. 

Remember, the conclusion of your speech is NOT the time to introduce new points or new supporting evidence; doing so will all the more confuse the listeners. 

Instead, a conclusion is like tying a bow or ribbon to a box of your key ideas that your audience will be taking along with them. Meaning, it’s the final touch that makes your speech stand out and memorable.

So, how can you end your speech with a bang? To discover it, let’s jump in to the 15 powerful speech ending lines and ways to create your own:

1) Abraham Lincoln

Speech ending line: “And this nation under God shall have a new birth of freedom and that government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the Earth.”

How to use The Rule Of Three to end your speech?

The Rule of Three is an effective technique that allows you to express your ideas more completely by emphasizing your points and increasing the memorability of your message.

Dale Carneige once said, 

“Tell them what you are going to tell them, tell them, then tell them what you just told them.”

Information when presented in a group of three sticks in our head better than say, groups of four or five.

The answer is simple! We humans are generally good at pattern recognition and three is the smallest number needed to make a pattern. When used at the end of a speech, you can create maximum impact, (obviously) if said in a proper tone of voice. 

Repeating your ideas can make your message more persuasive, memorable, and entertaining.

Since, the conclusion is your last chance as a speaker to drive home your ideas, you need to repeat and emphasize phrases, sentences and words to make others remember your key message. 

The repetition of phrases and sentences should be such that it creates a micro story of your entire speech. 

If you are trying to incorporate the rule of three in your speech and need guidance to do so. Here’s an article on The Power of the Rule of Three in Speech Writing that might help you!

2) Simon Sinek

Speech ending line: “Listen to politicians now, with their comprehensive 12-point plans. They’re not inspiring anybody. Because there are leaders and there are those who lead. Leaders hold a position of power or authority, but those who lead inspire us. Whether they’re individuals or organizations, we follow those who lead, not because we have to, but because we want to. We follow those who lead, not for them, but for ourselves. And it’s those who start with “why” that have the ability to inspire those around them or find others who inspire them.”

How to mark an end of a speech with a story?

Telling stories can do wonders in making your speech a memorable one. Because we as humans relate to stories. 

Using an effective and persuasive story at the end can engage the audience, evoke empathy, increase trust and motivate action.

Your story should be crafted in such a way that it sums up your entire speech. But don’t forget, it needs to be short and sweet.

You can start your story by saying, “Let me tell you a story that illustrates what I have been talking about…”

To make your speech/story worth remembering, you can try these various storytelling approaches mentioned in this article- 9 Storytelling Approaches For Your Next Speech or Presentation .

3) Les Brown

Speech ending line: “If you want a thing bad enough To go out and fight for it, Work day and night for it, Give up your time and your peace and Your sleep for it

If only desire of it Makes you quite mad enough Never to tire of it, Makes you hold all other things tawdry And cheap for it

If life seems all empty and useless without it And all that you scheme and you dream is about it,

If gladly you’ll sweat for it, Fret for it, Plan for it, Lose all your terror of God or man for it,

If you’ll simply go after that thing that you want. With all your capacity, Strength and sagacity, Faith, hope and confidence, stern pertinacity,

If neither cold, poverty, famished and gaunt, Nor sickness nor pain Of body or brain Can turn you away from the thing that you want,

If dogged and grim you besiege and beset it, You’ll get it.”

How to end a speech with a poem?

This works similar to the notion of storytelling. 

You can end your speech with a poem that summarizes your entire speech. To do this you can either make your own or select the one that works the best for your speech. If you select one, remember to cite the source.

While reciting a poem add emotions and drama to your words, raise your voice on a key line of the poem and pause whenever required.

Poetry is a powerful way to get your point across because it helps you create an impression in your audiences’ mind. If you are planning to tap into poetry for your next speech, we have written an article- Getting Your ‘Wordsworth’: Poetry in Public Speaking that you can review to get some tips on how to add a poem in your speech.

4) Sir Ken Robinson

Speech ending line: “There’s a wonderful quote from Benjamin Franklin. “There are three sorts of people in the world: Those who are immovable, people who don’t get it, or don’t want to do anything about it; there are people who are movable, people who see the need for change and are prepared to listen to it; and there are people who move, people who make things happen.” And if we can encourage more people, that will be a movement. And if the movement is strong enough, that’s, in the best sense of the word, a revolution. And that’s what we need.”

How to close a speech with a memorable quote?

Quotations are usually concise and memorable phrasing of an idea. (This is why we repeat and remember quotations, right?)

The sole reason to quote material is that it reinforces your ideas. A quotation offers a second voice echoing your claims which is more powerful than simply just repeating yourself.

So, your quote should be such that summarizes your main idea. You can quote words of an expert, a person who spoke before you at an event or something in your own words.

Tips for using quotations in your speech:

• Phrasing it correctly can help boost your credibility
• Don’t quote anything outside your context

Taking the above example of Sir Ken Robinson, the quoted words at the end of his speech summarized the heart of his speech.

5) Lera Boroditsky

Speech ending line: “It’s how the language that you speak shapes the way that you think. And that gives you the opportunity to ask, “Why do I think the way that I do?” “How could I think differently?” And also, “What thoughts do I wish to create?”

How to end a speech with a question?

You can try and engage your audience with questions that will get them thinking.

It is often effective to end with a rhetorical question that captures the message and leaves the audience thinking—especially one that directly ties in your CTA. For instance:

“What choice will you make when you leave here today? Will you ____(your key message), or will you go about your normal routine?”

See how Lera Boroditsky leaves her audience with a set of questions rattling around their minds.

6) Melissa Butler  

Speech ending line: “So I challenge each of you, when you go home today, look at yourself in the mirror, see all of you, look at all of your greatness that you embody, accept it, and love it. And finally, when you leave the house tomorrow, try to extend that same love and acceptance to someone who doesn’t look like you. Thank you.”

How to give a challenge close to your speech?

In the above example, Melissa Butler used a challenge close to force her audience to take action over something.

In this type of closing, you challenge your audience to apply whatever you spoke in your speech and engage them in thought or action.

A good way to do that is to make sure they know you’re aware of the challenges that exist, and that you have concrete and actionable solutions to it.

To do this, you can have a bit of a forceful tone of voice to make a failure process a learning one.

Do express your belief in them and focus on setting a high bar, but an achievable one.

7) Brian Kateman

Speech ending line: “You can change the world by ordering a smaller steak, or doing something more. But don’t just sit by and ignore what you already know. Consider eating less meat and be a reducetarian.

Save our planet, improve your health, and save a lot of animals.”

How to end a speech by giving a solution to a concern?

This type of closing is suitable for speeches where you talk about a problem and give a solution for the same.

First you introduce the problem and explain why the audience should be concerned about it.

While concluding, you provide a practical solution to the stated concern. 

Look at how Brian Kateman states a problem: The battle between vegans, vegetarians, and everyone else and ends up giving a pragmatic solution.

8) Anjelah Johnson

Speech ending line: “Really?! It’s funny because my finger didn’t do like that before I came in here.” “It’s okay honey, don’t worry. I’ll fix it for you, don’t worry.” (Imitates talking in Vietnamese) (Laughter) (Laughter) (Stops talking Vietnamese) “Oh, see? You look so pretty!” God bless, you guys.”

How to leave your audience with a good laugh?

Wouldn’t you love leaving your audience with a good laugh? Ending your speech with humor can help you to do so. 

But you need to use them with caution. Tell jokes that are related to your speech. And avoid telling offensive jokes.

You can add anecdotes and funny stories that have happened in real life since it’s easy to relate to and, if said in a correct manner, you can have your audience laughing while hitting your message home!

Tips to deliver a good humor:

• Surprise your audience by breaking their expectations with the help of a good setup and punchline. Setup creates a specific expectation in people’s minds and a punchline reveals the surprise. For instance, “I believe that each person can make a difference (setup), but it’s so slight that there’s basically no point (punch)”
• Try and impersonate your dialogues or the characters as it will make your listeners feel they are in the scene
• You can twist the literal meaning of a word. Example- Everybody looked up to me in college because I was the tallest of all
• You can also incorporate the rule of three that works similar to the setup and punchline technique i.e. setup, setup, punch. Take an example of Elicia Sanchez, “I was a super nerd when I was a kid. I liked video games, I liked comic books, I was the youngest mage in the D&D campaign I was part of with 30-year-olds at the Yardbirds in Centralia, Washington.”

Apart from this, always test and rehearse the humor that you are going to incorporate and ask for honest feedback. Also, make sure the jokes and stories you use add value to your point and are insightful

9) Yubing Zhang

Speech ending line: “As the words said high on the bungee platform, “Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.”

How to end a speech using the circle theory?

Here, the idea is to take your audience on a journey and get them back to the place from where you started, making a circle.

Meaning, you refer back to what you started with (movie, words, quote).

Yubing Zhang begins her speech with- Life Begins at The Edge of Your Comfort Zone” and ends with the same. 

You can bookend your speech in different ways:

• You can end by referencing your opening
• Concluding words can contrast from your opening words.
• Open with a question and answer it at the end 

We have written an in-depth article on 7 Techniques to Bookending Your Speech: Guidelines and Examples . Review it for some inspiration!

10) BJ Miller

Speech ending line: “Parts of me died early on, and that’s something we can all say one way or another. I got to redesign my life around this fact, and I tell you it has been a liberation to realize you can always find a shock of beauty or meaning in what life you have left, like that snowball lasting for a perfect moment, all the while melting away. If we love such moments ferociously, then maybe we can learn to live well — not in spite of death, but because of it. Let death be what takes us, not lack of imagination.”

How to close a speech with an inspiring note?

Okay, let’s be real here. We humans are dealing with problems, difficulties, challenges, disappointments, setbacks, and temporary failures.

Ending your speech with an uplifting talk that gives a ray of hope might encourage your audience.

“Inspiring your audience is all about helping them see their own vision, not yours.” Anonymous

If your hope is to inspire your audience then your material needs to be about them and ways on how they can grow .

To do so you can opt for stories or share your personal experiences to get your message alive, but you need to paint a picture of what your audiences’ vision is when it comes to themselves and how you can help them achieve that vision by your talk.

11) Dr. Shashi Tharoor

Speech ending line: “95% of our 12 year-olds across India can read and write. So the future looks good. And as far as the workforce is concerned, if we can get all these other pieces in place, we can say to the rest of the world, “We are coming.”

How to end your speech with facts?

Adding only facts in a speech can make it boring, right? Because there’s nothing entertaining about that.

Well, this wouldn’t be a case when you use the right facts in a proper way and at a proper time. 

Adding facts as a speech ending line can be a way through which you can re-engage your audience, leaving them mesmerized. 

Incorporate only those facts that are relevant to your topic because you don’t want to make them apathetic towards you.

Present your facts in a creative manner. For instance, asking a question after when you stated the fact, audience poll, or add humor.

Trying to add facts in your speech without making it sound boring? Here’s an article- 11 Steps to Add Facts in A Speech Without Making It Boring that can guide you. 

12) Cameron Russell

Speech ending line: “If there’s a takeaway to this talk, I hope it’s that we all feel more comfortable acknowledging the power of image in our perceived successes and our perceived failures.”  

How to leave your audience with a piece of advice?

This works similar to the fact concept.

Your advices should get your audience encouraged about something and not discourage them or make them feel incompetent.

Try to chunk your advice into simple steps that your audience can follow. Inject emotions, relate it to your own experience (if possible) and make it inspirational.

The sole purpose of giving advice is to help someone. Don’t forget that!

Because a lot of times the advice is created on the basis of expectation and not understanding others. To simplify it, you need to understand the problem that your audience is facing and then advise them keeping your expectations and judgements aside.

Look at how Cameron Russell makes people feel good about themselves by empowering them regardless of the topic.

13) Nora Mclnerny

Speech ending line: “But yes, absolutely, they’re going to move forward. But that doesn’t mean that they’ve moved on.”

How to use a title close to end your speech?

To give your speech a title close, your speech needs to have a provocative title that encapsulates your message memorably. 

Use the title of your speech as your closing words to stir your audience to think more fully about what they just heard, reinforcing the title of your speech mentioned earlier.

14) Alfred Chuang

Speech ending line: “A new world is on the horizon. And it will be more incredible than any of us can possibly imagine. Our greatest innovations are ahead of us, not behind. But we need great engineers to build that world for us. And that’s you. We need you to not give up. Ever. We need you to finish your projects. Done, done, done. We need you to leverage the power of an immigrant-rich workforce. And we need you all to be a little insane.”

How to make a direct call to action at the end of your speech?

A well constructed and presented speech is the one that changes people’s mind and ignites action.

The call to action comes right before the end of a persuasive speech. Here, you clearly tell the audience the role they can play after they leave your talk.

It serves as a road map that your listeners can follow after when they are thoroughly gripped to your idea. Because they exactly know what they need to do.

In the above example, you can see how Alfred Chuang delivered a powerful CTA, as he clearly explains what listeners can do to push his idea forward.

Barring this type of a CTA, the other forms include signing a petition, buying your product, visiting your website.

15) Barack Obama

Speech ending line: “So let’s get to work, people. Let’s bring this home. I love you, Philadelphia. Honk if you’re fired up, honk if you’re ready to go. Are you fired up?”

How to use an appeal to end your speech?

The most common closing for a persuasive speech can be an appeal for action.

You can shape your appeal according to who your intended audience is and the purpose of you talking to them.

One of the best ways to make an appeal is by tapping into their emotions in order to form a deeper connection with the listeners.

Avoid making your message too pushy. Instead, try and make your content relatable and valuable for them. This is when the audience is much more likely to pay attention to you.

Valuable reads: The Secret of Writing a Persuasive Speech 

Level up your public speaking in 15 minutes!

Get the exclusive Masterclass video delivered to your inbox to see immediate speaking results.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Final Thoughts

Depending on the type of speech you are presenting, you will be asking the audience for something. And that can be- asking them to act in a certain way, or to change their attitude towards a certain person or topic or simply make them understand what you’re trying to say.

Nonetheless, the conclusion of your speech is to leave the audience positively motivated towards you and the topic you have been presenting. 

Hopefully, these 15 examples will guide you to create your own speech ending line that is impactful.

Let us know in the comments below which one worked for you.

Still looking for inspiration? Check out this video we made on closing remarks:

Enroll in our transformative 1:1 Coaching Program

Schedule a call with our expert communication coach to know if this program would be the right fit for you

Lost Voice? Here’s How to Recover Sore Throat and Speak Again

7 Keys to Emcee Like a Pro: Unlock Your Hosting Potential

8 Ways to Rise Above the Noise to Communicate Better

• [email protected]
• +91 98203 57888

Get our latest tips and tricks in your inbox always

Copyright © 2023 Frantically Speaking All rights reserved

Kindly drop your contact details so that we can arrange call back

Select Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria AmericanSamoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Colombia Comoros Congo Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Rwanda Samoa San Marino Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Tajikistan Thailand Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Wallis and Futuna Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe land Islands Antarctica Bolivia, Plurinational State of Brunei Darussalam Cocos (Keeling) Islands Congo, The Democratic Republic of the Cote d'Ivoire Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Guernsey Holy See (Vatican City State) Hong Kong Iran, Islamic Republic of Isle of Man Jersey Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Lao People's Democratic Republic Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Macao Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Mozambique Palestinian Territory, Occupied Pitcairn Réunion Russia Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan Da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Sao Tome and Principe Somalia Svalbard and Jan Mayen Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tanzania, United Republic of Timor-Leste Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S.

• Games, topic printables & more
• The 4 main speech types
• Example speeches
• Commemorative
• Declamation
• Demonstration
• Informative
• Introduction
• Student Council
• Speech topics
• Poems to read aloud
• How to write a speech
• Using props/visual aids
• Acute anxiety help
• Breathing exercises
• Letting go - free e-course
• Using self-hypnosis
• Delivery overview
• 4 modes of delivery
• How to make cue cards
• How to read a speech
• 9 vocal aspects
• Vocal variety
• Diction/articulation
• Pronunciation
• Speaking rate
• How to use pauses
• Eye contact
• Body language
• Voice image
• Voice health
• Public speaking activities and games
• About me/contact
• How to end a speech effectively

How to end a speech memorably

3 ways to close a speech effectively.

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 09-05-2022

Knowing how, and when, to end a speech is just as important as knowing how to begin. Truly.

What's on this page:

• why closing well is important
• 3 effective speech conclusions with examples and audio
• 7 common ways people end their speeches badly  - what happens when you fail to plan to end a speech memorably
• How to end a Maid Honor speech: 20 examples
• links to research showing the benefits of finishing a speech strongly

Why ending a speech well is important

Research *  tells us people most commonly remember the first and last thing they hear when listening to a speech, seminar or lecture.

Therefore if you want the audience's attention and, your speech to create a lasting impression sliding out with:  "Well, that's all I've got say. My time's up anyway. Yeah - so thanks for listening, I guess.",  isn't going to do it.

So what will?

* See the foot of the page for links to studies and articles on what and how people remember : primacy and recency.

Three effective speech conclusions

Here are three of the best ways to end a speech. Each ensures your speech finishes strongly rather than limping sadly off to sure oblivion.

You'll need a summary of your most important key points followed by the ending of your choice:

• a powerful quotation
• a challenge
• a call back

To work out which of these to use, ask yourself what you want audience members to do or feel as a result of listening to your speech. For instance;

• Do you want to motivate them to work harder?
• Do you want them to join the cause you are promoting?
• Do you want them to remember a person and their unique qualities?

What you choose to do with your last words should support the overall purpose of your speech.

Let's look at three different scenarios showing each of these ways to end a speech.

To really get a feel for how they work try each of them out loud yourself and listen to the recordings.

1. How to end a speech with a powerful quotation

Your speech purpose is to inspire people to join your cause. Specifically you want their signatures on a petition lobbying for change and you have everything ready to enable them to sign as soon as you have stopped talking.

You've summarized the main points and want a closing statement at the end of your speech to propel the audience into action.

Borrowing words from a revered and respected leader aligns your cause with those they fought for, powerfully blending the past with the present.

For example:

"Martin Luther King, Jr said 'The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.'

Now is the time to decide. Now is the time to act. 

Here's the petition. Here's the pen. And here's the space for your signature.

Now, where do you stand?"

Try it out loud and listen to the audio

Try saying this out loud for yourself. Listen for the cumulative impact of: an inspirational quote, plus the rhythm and repetition (two lots of 'Now is the time to...', three of 'Here's the...', three repeats of the word 'now') along with a rhetorical question to finish.

Click the link to hear a recording of it:  sample speech ending with a powerful quotation .

2. How to end a speech with a challenge

Your speech purpose is to motivate your sales force.

You've covered the main points in the body of it, including introducing an incentive: a holiday as a reward for the best sales figures over the next three weeks.

You've summarized the important points and have reached the end of your speech. The final words are a challenge, made even stronger by the use of those two extremely effective techniques: repetition and rhetorical questions.

"You have three weeks from the time you leave this hall to make that dream family holiday in New Zealand yours.

Can you do it?

Will you do it?

The kids will love it.

Your wife, or your husband, or your partner, will love it.

Do it now!"

Click the link to listen to a recording of it: sample speech ending with a challenge . And do give it a go yourself.

3. How to end a speech with a call back

Your speech purpose is to honor the memory of a dear friend who has passed  away.

You've briefly revisited the main points of your speech and wish in your closing words to  leave the members of the audience with a happy and comforting take-home message or image to dwell on.

Earlier in the speech you told a poignant short story. It's that you return to, or call back.

Here's an example of what you could say:

"Remember that idyllic picnic I told you about?

Every blue sky summer's day I'll see Amy in my mind.

Her red picnic rug will be spread on green grass under the shade of an old oak tree. There'll be food, friends and laughter.

I'll see her smile, her pleasure at sharing the simple good things of life, and I know what she'd say too. I can hear her.

"Come on, try a piece of pie. My passing is not the end of the world you know."

Click the link to hear a recording of it: sample speech ending with a call back . Try it out for yourself too. (For some reason, this one is a wee bit crackly. Apologies for that!)

When you don't plan how to end a speech...

That old cliché 'failing to plan is planning to fail' can bite and its teeth are sharp.

The 'Wing It' Department * delivers lessons learned the hard way. I know from personal experience and remember the pain!

How many of these traps have caught you?

• having no conclusion and whimpering out on a shrug of the shoulders followed by a weak,  'Yeah, well, that's all, I guess.',  type of line.
• not practicing while timing yourself and running out of it long before getting to your prepared conclusion. (If you're in Toastmasters where speeches are timed you'll know when your allotted time is up, that means, finish. Stop talking now, and sit down. A few seconds over time can be the difference between winning and losing a speech competition.)
• ending with an apology undermining your credibility. For example:  'Sorry for going on so long. I know it can be a bit boring listening to someone like me.'  
• adding new material just as you finish which confuses your audience. The introduction of information belongs in the body of your speech.
• making the ending too long in comparison to the rest of your speech.
• using a different style or tone that doesn't fit with what went before it which puzzles listeners.
• ending abruptly without preparing the audience for the conclusion. Without a transition, signal or indication you're coming to the end of your talk they're left waiting for more.

* Re  The 'Wing It' Department

One of the most galling parts of ending a speech weakly is knowing it's avoidable. Ninety nine percent of the time it didn't have to happen that way. But that's the consequence of 'winging it', trying to do something without putting the necessary thought and effort in.

It's such a sod when there's no one to blame for the poor conclusion of your speech but yourself! ☺

How to end a Maid of Honor speech: 20 examples

More endings! These are for Maid of Honor speeches. There's twenty examples of varying types: funny, ones using Biblical and other quotations... Go to: how to end a Maid of Honor speech    

How to write a speech introduction

Now that you know how to end a speech effectively, find out how to open one well. Discover the right hook to use to captivate your audience.

Find out more: How to write a speech introduction: 12 of the very best ways to open a speech .

More speech writing help

You do not need to flail around not knowing what to do, or where to start.

Visit this page to find out about  structuring and writing a speech . 

You'll find information on writing the body, opening and conclusion as well as those all important transitions. There's also links to pages to help you with preparing a speech outline, cue cards, rehearsal, and more. 

Research on what, and how, people remember: primacy and recency 

McLeod, S. A. (2008).  Serial position effect .  (Primacy and recency, first and last)  Simply Psychology.

Hopper, Elizabeth. "What Is the Recency Effect in Psychology?" ThoughtCo, Feb. 29, 2020.

ScienceDirect: Recency Effect - an overview of articles from academic Journals & Books covering the topic.

• Back to top of  how to end a speech  page

speaking out loud 

Subscribe for  FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see  speaking out loud  

Top 10 popular pages

• Welcome speech
• Demonstration speech topics
• Impromptu speech topic cards
• Thank you quotes
• Impromptu public speaking topics
• Farewell speeches
• Phrases for welcome speeches
• Student council speeches
• Free sample eulogies

From fear to fun in 28 ways

A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.

Useful pages

• Search this site
• About me & Contact
• Blogging Aloud
• Free e-course
• Privacy policy

©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com

Designed and built by Clickstream Designs

• SUGGESTED TOPICS
• The Magazine
• Newsletters
• Managing Yourself
• Managing Teams
• Work-life Balance
• The Big Idea
• Data & Visuals
• Reading Lists
• Case Selections
• HBR Learning
• Topic Feeds
• Account Settings
• Email Preferences

How to Write a Meaningful Thank You Note

• Christopher Littlefield

Sample messages from common workplace scenarios.

Many of us fear expressing our thanks to others. We might worry that our efforts will be misinterpreted or make the person on the receiving end uncomfortable. Or we might struggle to find the right words to express how we feel. Here’s how to do it right.

• Keep it genuine : The goal of expressing appreciation should be to let someone know how their actions have impacted you and/or others. If you have any other agenda, your message will not be authentic.
• Share what you appreciate and why : Focus on the impact their actions had on you and explain both  what you appreciate and why . This will help the other person understand the reason you feel the way you do.
• Send it : E-mails get lost and handwritten cards get saved. Write your message on a piece of paper, post-it note, or card and give it directly to the person. If you are at work, you can also leave it on their desk or in their “mailbox.”

Where your work meets your life. See more from Ascend here .

We all want to be appreciated. Whether you’ve accepted a task while your plate is already full, worked through weekends to get a project off the ground, or simply been there for a work friend when they needed your support, an acknowledgement or “thank you” can go a long way in making us feel good about the efforts we put in — and the research supports this.

• Christopher Littlefield is an International/TEDx speaker specializing in employee appreciation and the founder of  Beyond Thank You . He has trained thousands of leaders across six continents to create cultures where people feel valued every day. He is the author of 75+ Team Building Activities for Remote Teams—Simple Ways to Build Trust, Strengthen Communication, and Laugh Together from Afar . You can follow his work through his weekly mailing  The Nudge .

Partner Center

• Personal Development
• Sales Training
• Business Training
• Time Management
• Leadership Training
• Book Writing
• Public Speaking
• Live Speaker Training With Brian
• See Brian Speak
• Coaching Programs
• Become a Coach
• Personal Success
• Sales Success
• Business Success
• Leadership Success

9 Tips to End a Speech With a Bang

A good talk or public speech is like a good play, movie, or song.

It opens by arresting the listener’s attention, develops point by point, and then ends strongly.

The truth is, if you don’t know how to end a speech, the overall message won’t be persuasive and your key points may get lost.

The words you say at the beginning, and especially at the end of your talk, are usually the most persuasive parts of the speech and will be remembered longer than almost any other part of your speech.

Some of the great speeches in history and some of the most memorable Ted talks have ended with powerful, stirring words that live on in memory.

How do you end a speech and get the standing ovation that you deserve?

Keep reading to discover how…

Here are 9 tips and examples for concluding a speech.

1) Plan Your Closing Remarks Word for Word

To ensure that your conclusion is as powerful as it can be, you must plan it word for word.

Ask yourself, “What is the purpose of this talk?”

Your answer should involve the actions that you want your listeners to take after hearing you speak on this subject.

When you are clear about the end result you desire, it becomes much easier to design a conclusion that asks your listeners to take that action.

The best strategy for ending with a BANG is to plan your close before you plan the rest of your speech.

You then go back and design your opening so that it sets the stage for your conclusion.

The body of your talk is where you present your ideas and make your case for what you want the audience to think, remember, and do after hearing you speak.

2) Always End a Speech With a Call to Action

It is especially important to tell the audience what you want it to do as a result of hearing you speak.

A call to action is the best way to wrap up your talk with strength and power.

Here is a Speech Conclusion Call to Action Example

“We have great challenges and great opportunities, and with your help, we will meet them and make this next year the best year in our history!”

Whatever you say, imagine an exclamation point at the end. As you approach the conclusion, pick up your energy and tempo.  This is even more important if the presentation you are giving is virtual .

Speak with strength and emphasis.

Drive the final point home.

Regardless of whether the audience participants agree with you or are willing to do what you ask, it should be perfectly clear to them what you are requesting.

3) End a Speech With a Summary

There is a simple formula for any talk:

• Tell them what you are going to tell them.
• Then, tell them what you told them.

As you approach the end of your talk, say something like,

“Let me briefly restate these main points…”

You then list your key points, one by one, and repeat them to the audience, showing how each of them links to the other points.

Audiences appreciate a linear repetition of what they have just heard.

This makes it clear that you are coming to the end of your talk.

4) Close with a story

As you reach the end of your talk, you can say,

“Let me tell you a story that illustrates what I have been talking about…”

You then tell a brief story with a moral and then tell the audience what the moral is.

Don’t leave it to them to figure out for themselves.

Often you can close with a story that illustrates your key points and then clearly links to the key message that you are making with your speech.

To learn more about storytelling in speaking, you can read my previous blog post “8 Public Speaking Tips to Wow Your Audience.”

Here’s a recap of these 4 tips in a video…

5) Make Them Laugh

You can close with humor.

You can tell a joke that loops back into your subject and repeats the lesson or main point you are making with a story that makes everyone laugh.

During my talks on planning and persistence, I discuss the biggest enemy that we have, which is the tendency to follow the path of least resistance. I then tell this story.

Ole and Sven are out hunting in Minnesota and they shoot a deer. They begin dragging the deer back to the truck by the tail, but they keep slipping and losing both their grip and their balance.

A farmer comes along and asks them, “What are you boys doing?”

They reply, “We’re dragging the deer back to the truck.”

The farmer tells them, “You are not supposed to drag a deer by the tail. You’re supposed to drag the deer by the handles. They’re called antlers. You’re supposed to drag a deer by the antlers.”

Ole and Sven say, “Thank you very much for the idea.”

They begin pulling the deer by the antlers. After about five minutes, they are making rapid progress. Ole says to Sven, “Sven, the farmer was right. It goes a lot easier by the antlers.”

Sven replies, “Yeah, but we’re getting farther and farther from the truck.”

After the laughter dies down, I say…

“The majority of people in life are pulling the easy way, but they are getting further and further from the ‘truck’ or their real goals and objectives.”

That’s just one example of closing using humor.

6) Make It Rhyme

You can close with a poem.

There are many fine poems that contain messages that summarize the key points you want to make.

You can select a poem that is moving, dramatic, or emotional.

For years I ended seminars with the poem, “Don’t Quit,” or “Carry On!” by Robert W. Service. It was always well received by the audience.

7) Close With Inspiration

You can end a speech with something inspirational as well.

If you have given an uplifting talk, remember that hope is and has always been, the main religion of mankind.

People love to be motivated and inspired to be or do something different and better in the future.

Here are a few of my favorite inspirational quotes that can be tied into most speeches.  You can also read this collection of leadership quotes for further inspiration.

Remember, everyone in your audience is dealing with problems, difficulties, challenges, disappointments, setbacks, and temporary failures.

For this reason, everyone appreciates a poem, quote or story of encouragement that gives them strength and courage.

Here are 7 Tips to Tell an Inspiring Poem or Story to End Your Speech

• You have to slow down and add emotion and drama to your words.
• Raise your voice on a key line of the poem, and then drop it when you’re saying something that is intimate and emotional.
• Pick up the tempo occasionally as you go through the story or poem, but them slow down on the most memorable parts.
• Especially, double the number of pauses you normally use in a conversation.
• Use dramatic pauses at the end of a line to allow the audience to digest the words and catch up with you.
• Smile if the line is funny, and be serious if the line is more thought-provoking or emotional.
• When you come to the end of your talk, be sure to bring your voice up on the last line, rather than letting it drop. Remember the “exclamation point” at the end.

Try practicing on this poem that I referenced above…

Read through “Carry On!” by Robert Service .

Identify the key lines, intimate parts, and memorable parts, and recite it.

8) Make it Clear That You’re Done

When you say your final words, it should be clear to everyone that you have ended. There should be no ambiguity or confusion in the mind of your audience. The audience members should know that this is the end.

Many speakers just allow their talks to wind down.

They say something with filler words like, “Well, that just about covers it. Thank you.”

This isn’t a good idea…

It’s not powerful…

It’s not an authoritative ending and thus detracts from your credibility and influence.

When you have concluded, discipline yourself to stand perfectly still. Select a friendly face in the audience and look straight at that person.

If it is appropriate, smile warmly at that person to signal that your speech has come to an end.

Resist the temptation to:

• Shuffle papers.
• Fidget with your clothes or microphone.
• Move forward, backward, or sideways.
• Do anything else except stand solidly, like a tree.

9) Let Them Applaud

When you have finished your talk, the audience members will want to applaud…

What they need from you is a clear signal that now is the time to begin clapping.

How do you signal this?

Some people will recognize sooner than others that you have concluded your remarks.

In many cases, when you make your concluding comments and stop talking, the audience members will be completely silent.

They may be unsure whether you are finished.

They may be processing your final remarks and thinking them over. They may not know what to do until someone else does something.

In a few seconds, which will often feel like several minutes, people will applaud.

First one…

Then another…

Then the entire audience will begin clapping.

When someone begins to applaud, look directly at that person, smile, and mouth the words thank you.

As more and more people applaud, sweep slowly from person to person, nodding, smiling and saying, “Thank You.”

Eventually, the whole room will be clapping.

There’s no better reward for overcoming your fear of public speaking than enjoying a round of applause.

BONUS TIP: How to Handle a Standing Ovation

If you have given a moving talk and really connected with your audience, someone will stand up and applaud. When this happens, encourage others by looking directly at the clapper and saying, “Thank you.”

This will often prompt other members of the audience to stand.

As people see others standing, they will stand as well, applauding the whole time.

It is not uncommon for a speaker to conclude his or her remarks, stand silently, and have the entire audience sit silently in response.

Stand Comfortably and Shake Hands

But as the speaker stands there comfortably, waiting for the audience to realize the talk is over, one by one people will begin to applaud and often stand up one by one.

If the first row of audience members is close in front of you, step or lean forward and shake that person’s hand when one of them stands up to applaud.

When you shake hands with one person in the audience, many other people in the audience feel that you are shaking their hands and congratulating them as well.

They will then stand up and applaud.

Soon the whole room will be standing and applauding.

Whether you receive a standing ovation or not, if your introducer comes back on to thank you on behalf of the audience, smile and shake their hand warmly.

If it’s appropriate, give the introducer a hug of thanks, wave in a friendly way to the audience, and then move aside and give the introducer the stage.

Follow these tips to get that standing ovation every time.

« Previous Post 8 Public Speaking Techniques to Wow Your Audience Next Post » 15 Ways to Overcome Your Fears of Writing a Book

About Brian Tracy — Brian is recognized as the top sales training and personal success authority in the world today. He has authored more than 60 books and has produced more than 500 audio and video learning programs on sales, management, business success and personal development, including worldwide bestseller The Psychology of Achievement. Brian's goal is to help you achieve your personal and business goals faster and easier than you ever imagined. You can follow him on Twitter , Facebook , Pinterest , Linkedin and Youtube .

• Most Recent
• How to Start a Speech: The Best Ways to Capture Your Audience
• How to Develop Self-Discipline to Succeed
• The Art of Business Success: A Blueprint for Entrepreneurs
• How to Develop a Habit That Will Last
• How to Write an Author Bio (Examples Included)
• Free Webinar: How To Write a Book and Become a Published Author
• Free Video Series: 3-Part Sales Mastery Training Series
• Free Assessment: The Confidence Factor
• Free Assessment: Discovering Your Talents

Browse Categories

• Financial Success

Follow Brian & Join the Discussion

• Free Resources
• Best Sellers
• Knowledge Base
• Shipping & Returns
• Privacy Policy
• About Brian
• Brian Recommends

Your Privacy is Guaranteed. We will never give, lease or sell your personal information. Period!

© Copyright 2001-2024 Brian Tracy International. All Rights Reserved.

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• School Stuff
• End of School
• Youth Graduation

How to Write a Graduation Thank You Speech

Last Updated: April 27, 2024 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. 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 416,141 times.

Graduation is an important event, and often, people like to use the occasion to thank everyone that supported them through school or a program. However, writing a good graduation speech can be challenging. Keep reading to learn how to write a graduation thank you speech , whether you are speaking to a large audience or simply making a toast at dinner.

Things You Should Know

• Start with a 2-5 sentence introduction that engages your audience. Try using a rhetorical question, quote, or short anecdote.
• Thank your friends, family, and teachers in depth in the body of your speech. This should be about 2-3 paragraphs.
• Conclude your speech with 1-2 sentences that summarize everything you've said so far.

Brainstorming Your Ideas

• If you are talking to close friends or family, address the people you are thanking by name.
• Write down every person or group of people that comes to mind. You can edit this later on.

• Be honest about why you are thanking someone.
• The reasoning here can be very simple. For example, “My history teacher always made me laugh,” or “My mom woke me up every morning” are good reasons to thank someone.
• The more heartfelt the gratitude, the better. Take time to reflect on your feelings.

• Remember, there is no wrong way to brainstorm. Just keep writing.
• Continue to freewrite until you cannot think of anything else to say, and for at least 30 minutes.
• Now, you’ve brainstormed about your speech, so it is time to write it.

Writing the Thank You Speech

• “What are you thankful for?” This is beginning with a rhetorical question, since the audience will not answer.
• As Willie Nelson once said, "When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around." This is beginning with a quote.
• “It was the first day of high school, and I stood outside the door of my first class, scared to go in. On the last day of high school, I left that same door feeling thankful.” This is beginning with an anecdote.

• For example, you can say, “I would like to thank my friends and family for always inspiring me when I felt hopeless.”
• Another example is, “I want to thank Professor Z for helping me choose a major.”
• The body of the speech comes immediately after the introduction.
• Avoid insulting or offending those you are speaking to. Do not vent about problems or criticize others during this speech.

• Another simple example is, “Once again, I am so lucky to have such great friends and family. Thank you.”
• You can end on thanking someone by saying, “The last person I want to thank is my grandma. She was always there for me. Good night.”
• An anecdote is a great way to end a speech, as well as a wonderful quote from the Romans, Victorians, or a world-famous leader. You could also end the speech with your own words of hope and well wishes.
• Keep the audience engaged by inviting them to do something physical. You might say "Can we all stand up?" or "I want you to shout 'I love this life!'"

Practicing the Speech

Sample Speeches

Expert Q&A

• Enjoy the occasion; it happens very infrequently. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• During the speech, remember to make eye contact and smile. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Practice the speech frequently to lessen your nerves. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Remember, while this is your special event and you would like to thank everyone, dragging on can embarrass the people you are talking about and bore the others. Stick to your time limit. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about giving a graduation speech, check out our in-depth interview with Patrick Muñoz .

• ↑ https://www.alaskapacific.edu/graduation-speeches-show-dedication-appreciation-and-humor/
• ↑ https://uark.pressbooks.pub/speaking/chapter/graduation-speeches/
• ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/graduation-speech-ideas
• ↑ https://www.thesaurus.com/e/writing/how-to-write-a-graduation-speech/
• ↑ https://www.hamilton.edu/academics/centers/oralcommunication/guides/tips-for-effective-delivery

About This Article

To write a graduation thank you speech that’s less than 5 minutes long, first write a 2-5 sentence introduction. Make your introduction interesting and engaging by using a short anecdote, meaningful quotation, or rhetorical question, like “What are you thankful for?” Then, write 1-2 paragraphs naming each person you want to thank and explaining why you’re thanking them. Finally, summarize everything you’ve said in a 1-2 sentence conclusion that refers in some way to your introductory story, quotation, or question. To learn how to brainstorm ideas for your graduation thank you speech, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Rachel Stahl

Jan 27, 2018

Did this article help you?

Gavinn Mustinn

Apr 5, 2016

Somo Precious

Jul 5, 2017

Mar 29, 2017

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

How to Write and Deliver a Memorable Graduation Speech: Tips, Examples, and Techniques

• The Speaker Lab
• March 7, 2024

Table of Contents

The goal of any graduation speech is to find words that capture the essence of years spent learning and growing. Today, we’ll guide you through that process and help you craft a memorable graduation speech . You’ll learn to weave gratitude with shared experiences, and balance humor with wisdom. We’ll even help you find quotes that strike a chord and deliver them in a way that resonates.

But that’s not all! Dive into proven strategies for public speaking, managing stage fright, and drawing inspiration from iconic commencement speeches. Discover how personal growth stories add depth to your message and explore themes that leave a lasting impact on your peers as they step forward into new beginnings.

Crafting Your Graduation Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to marking the end of your high school or university journey, a graduation speech can capture the essence of this pivotal moment. But how do you start such an important address?

Opening with Impact

The first words of your graduation speech are crucial. They set the stage for what’s to come and grab your audience’s attention. Think about starting strong by sharing a personal anecdote that ties into the broader experience of your class or drawing from Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech , where he began with, “Today I want to tell you three stories from my life.” This technique instantly piques interest because it promises narratives that have shaped who you are.

An impactful opening also acknowledges shared experiences. Perhaps you could reflect on how moments in classrooms turned strangers into lifelong friends. Or for university commencements, consider touching upon those late-night study sessions that tested perseverance but ultimately led to academic achievements worth celebrating today.

Building the Body of Your Graduation Speech

In crafting the body content, intertwine lessons learned throughout high school years or during university courses with aspirations for what lies ahead. For instance, share how overcoming obstacles like balancing extracurricular activities and academics taught valuable time management skills.

To add depth, incorporate quotes from luminaries like Oprah Winfrey or draw parallels between classroom learnings and real-world applications. Dive deeper by discussing milestones achieved together as a graduating class and recognizing the hard work everyone put in to make it to this monumental occasion.

Concluding with Inspiration

Your conclusion should leave fellow graduates feeling inspired while helping them celebrate high school memories one last time—or honor those unforgettable college years if addressing higher education grads.

Closing remarks could include heartfelt gratitude towards teachers’ support and parental guidance. You might even crack a joke or two. It’s these personalized touches paired with universal truths that resonate most deeply as students step forward into new chapters post-graduation.

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

Use The Official Speaker Fee Calculator to tell you what you should charge for your first (or next) speaking gig — virtual or in-person! 

Delivery Techniques for Confident Speaking

Standing in front of a crowd can turn even the most composed student into a bundle of nerves. But fear not, with some smart strategies, you’ll be able to channel your inner orator and deliver your graduation speech with confidence.

Practicing Your Graduation Speech

Becoming familiar with every word of your speech is key. Rehearse it out loud until the words feel like second nature. This practice does more than just help you remember what comes next; it lets you find the natural rhythm and pace of your delivery. Consider recording yourself to catch any quirks or stumbling blocks—you might be surprised at how much this helps refine your presentation.

A trick often overlooked is practicing in different environments. If possible, stand on the actual stage where you will deliver your commencement address. Familiarity breeds comfort, making that once daunting podium seem like an old friend when graduation day arrives.

Overcoming Nervousness and Stage Fright

Nervousness is normal but doesn’t let it dictate your performance. Before stepping up to speak, take deep breaths to steady yourself—a calm body encourages a calm mind. An effective method for easing anxiety is visualization. Imagine delivering each line perfectly and receiving an enthusiastic response from listeners—envisioning success can make it so.

Maintaining Eye Contact

The power of eye contact cannot be overstated. It connects speaker and listener on a personal level that amplifies engagement significantly. Scan across different sections of the audience periodically without lingering too long on any one individual.

Incorporate these techniques diligently when preparing for the big day. In doing so, they become part of muscle memory and help build confidence. With confidence and plenty of practice on your side, your graduation speech is sure to conclude to applause leaving you to celebrate yet another milestone achieved.

Analyzing Renowned Graduation Speeches for Inspiration

When crafting a commencement speech, it’s often helpful to look at the giants whose words have echoed through auditoriums and across campuses. Steve Jobs’ Stanford University Commencement Speech is a classic example of weaving life lessons into an address that connects deeply with graduates. Similarly, Oprah Winfrey’s Harvard University Commencement Address showed how stumbling blocks can become stepping stones if we learn from them.

Steve Jobs’ Storytelling Mastery

Jobs had a knack for turning personal anecdotes into universal truths. In his Stanford address, he shared three stories from his own life without sounding self-indulgent. These stories worked because each one carried a broader message relevant to every graduate: finding what you love, dealing with loss, and facing death head-on. Jobs famously urged students to “stay hungry, stay foolish,” encouraging them not just to pursue success but remain curious about life despite challenges. This advice is especially poignant for today’s graduating class.

Like Jobs, you too can craft narratives around moments that speak volumes about perseverance and passion.

Oprah’s Unflinching Honesty

Much like her television persona suggests, Oprah did not shy away from discussing her setbacks in front of Harvard’s graduating class. Instead, she confidently laid bare the challenges faced by anyone who dares greatly because failure is part of achieving greatness. As she reminded students, “It doesn’t matter how far you might rise… At some point you are bound to stumble.”

In doing so she forged an instant connection with listeners grappling with their fears about what the future holds post-graduation. It was a powerful reminder that even icons like Oprah are not immune to trials but emerge stronger through them.

The power behind these speeches lies not just in their content but also in their delivery. These speakers mastered the art of speaking confidently before crowds, maintaining eye contact, and conveying authenticity—techniques any speaker should aspire to replicate on graduation day.

Themes and Messages That Resonate with Graduates

Facing a sea of caps and gowns, the right words can turn a graduation ceremony from mundane to memorable. When crafting your commencement speech, focusing on themes like overcoming obstacles and perseverance connects deeply with graduates who have hurdled high school or college challenges.

Overcoming Obstacles

Talking about stumbling blocks is not just relatable; it’s inspirational. Think Steve Jobs at Stanford University or Oprah Winfrey at Harvard—both shared personal tales of setbacks turned into comebacks. Beyond simply telling their stories, they showed how those hurdles were stepping stones to success.

Weave your narrative around the potholes you’ve navigated during your high school years. This doesn’t mean airing every bit of dirty laundry, just highlighting that one significant moment where everything seemed against you yet failed to defeat you.

The Power of Perseverance

Perseverance is more than sticking to something—it’s pushing forward when every fiber wants to quit. It resonates because everyone, including your fellow graduates, has felt that urge to give up but chose to persevere instead.

Incorporate this theme by using vivid examples that mirror collective experiences—the all-nighters before exams or balancing sports stars ambitions with academics—to illustrate perseverance isn’t just an idea but lived reality for many students.

Free Download: 6 Proven Steps to Book More Paid Speaking Gigs in 2024​

Download our 18-page guide and start booking more paid speaking gigs today!

Life Lessons Shared During Graduation Speeches

In addition to sharing content that fellow graduates will find relatable and inspirational, you should also consider sharing life lessons with your audience. Whether young or old, everyone has a unique perspective on life and sharing your wisdom can steer graduates toward a fulfilling path.

The Power of Kindness

Making a positive impact doesn’t require grand gestures; sometimes it’s found in small acts of kindness or an innovative idea that simplifies lives. This message sticks because everyone wants their work to mean something—to know they’ve left footprints on society’s vast canvas.

True Grit and Tenacity

Embracing failure and resilience is another powerful theme echoed by commencement speakers across podiums. Let’s face it; not all endeavors lead straight to success. But as Oprah Winfrey once said during her Harvard University commencement address, “It doesn’t matter how far you might rise… At some point, you are bound to stumble.” Her words remind us: How we pick ourselves up matters more than how we fall.

Making a Positive Impact

A graduating class stands poised on tomorrow’s threshold ready to mold history—and speeches should fuel this transformative fire within them. Memorable graduation speeches show individuals that ovation-worthy achievements are possible if you believe your actions count.

As you prepare your graduation speech, consider including one of these life lessons or one of your own. Don’t be afraid to share your hard-won insights to your fellow graduates—you just might inspire them to make history.

Celebrating Achievements and Acknowledging Contributions

Graduation is not just a ceremony. It’s a tribute to the academic achievements and extracurricular activities that have shaped students into who they are. The acknowledgment of teacher support and parental guidance also plays a pivotal role in these speeches, as they’re the scaffolding upon which student successes are built.

Academic Achievements, Extracurricular Activities

Acknowledging academic prowess goes beyond GPA scores or honor societies; it’s about highlighting unique intellectual journeys. Similarly, shining a light on extracurricular triumphs—be it sports stars setting records or artists winning competitions—adds depth to your speech. Remembering these moments isn’t merely recounting victories but celebrating the relentless spirit of your fellow graduates.

Diving deeper into personal anecdotes helps you connect with peers by reminding them of their growth through challenges faced together—from late-night study sessions to championship games. It’s these stories that make graduation memories stick with classmates long after commencement ends.

Teacher Support, Parental Guidance

The unsung heroes behind every graduate deserve their moment in your address too. Teachers’ dedication can turn classrooms into launch pads for dreams, while parents’ unwavering belief often fuels aspirations during tumultuous times like the pandemic.

In weaving tales of mentorship from teachers or wisdom imparted by parents, you remind everyone that success is rarely a solo act—it’s supported by many hands and hearts along the way. Celebrate this collective effort because each person has contributed uniquely to shaping graduating classes across America, including yours.

Common Issues in Writing and Delivering Graduation Speeches

Staring at a blank page as the clock ticks down to graduation day can rattle even the most seasoned speech writers. Overcoming writer’s block is about finding your message stick—the core idea that you want to leave with your peers. Remember, this isn’t just any talk; it’s one that marks a significant transition for both you and your audience.

Overcoming Writer’s Block

Finding yourself stumped on how to write a speech ? Don’t sweat it. Start by jotting down memories from school years or powerful life lessons that resonate. Think of Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech where he shared personal stories, which became an inspirational backbone for many other speeches.

If inspiration doesn’t strike immediately, step away from the computer. Take a walk and reflect on high school experiences or browse through commencement speeches archives—like Lin-Manuel Miranda’s address at the University of Pennsylvania. They might spark ideas you hadn’t considered yet.

Navigating Technical Troubles

A great speech can stumble over technical hiccups. To avoid glitches, check all equipment beforehand—a simple but crucial task often overlooked due to nerves or excitement about graduating class celebrations.

Prior rehearsals will also let you handle these issues like a pro should they pop up during delivery. Make sure any videos or slides complement rather than overshadow what you’re saying. After all, graduates aren’t there for bells and whistles—they’re there for meaningful words.

Handling Stage Fright

Your knees may shake thinking delivering in front of proud parents and peers—it’s no small feat, after all. Before you step on stage, visual your success until it feels more real and attainable.

And don’t forget to watch your body language. During your speech, maintain eye contact—not stare-downs—to connect genuinely with fellow students. And if anxiety creeps up despite practice sessions? Take deep breaths to steady yourself and keep going. You’ve handled high school—you can handle this.

FAQs on Writing and Delivering a Graduation Speech

What do i say in my graduation speech.

Share heartfelt stories, acknowledge support from others, and inspire your classmates to chase their dreams boldly.

How do you write a 3 minute graduation speech?

Keep it tight: hit the high notes with gratitude, shared memories, a dash of humor, and wrap up with punchy inspiration.

How do I start a graduation speech?

Kick off with thanks. Give props to family and mentors. Set the stage for reflecting on past adventures together.

What is the most important message of a graduation speech?

The core should spark hope—urge peers to leap into tomorrow equipped with lessons learned during these formative years.

Master your moment with a graduation speech that turns heads and warms hearts. Remember the power of gratitude and connect with your audience through stories, those shared adventures that bind you to your classmates. Don’t be afraid to add a few jokes and quotes to your speech either, as well as personal growth stories to inspire.

When you hit the stage, stand tall, make eye contact, and speak from your heart—the podium’s yours. If butterflies invade, breathe deep and know everyone’s rooting for you. Writer’s block didn’t stop you and neither will this.

Your graduation speech is not just words—it’s a battle cry for your graduating class as you prepare to conquer what lies ahead!

• Last Updated: March 5, 2024

Explore Related Resources

Learn How You Could Get Your First (Or Next) Paid Speaking Gig In 90 Days or Less

We receive thousands of applications every day, but we only work with the top 5% of speakers .

Book a call with our team to get started — you’ll learn why the vast majority of our students get a paid speaking gig within 90 days of finishing our program .

If you’re ready to control your schedule, grow your income, and make an impact in the world – it’s time to take the first step. Book a FREE consulting call and let’s get you Booked and Paid to Speak ® .

About The Speaker Lab

We teach speakers how to consistently get booked and paid to speak.  Since 2015, we’ve helped thousands of speakers find clarity, confidence, and a clear path to make an impact.

Get Started

Let's connect.

[email protected]

Copyright ©2023 The Speaker Lab. All rights reserved.

Letters of Gratitude: How to Write a Message of Appreciation

And it’s no surprise. After all, many of our positive emotions–joy, hope, optimism, and contentment–have appreciation or gratitude in common. And together, they, and others, foster the right conditions for living the ‘good life’ (Seligman, 2011).

Most importantly, gratitude is not fixed. It is a practice we can learn and build upon, something that becomes an integral part of who we are and how we live.

In this article, we explore the value of sending messages of gratitude and introduce guidance and templates to help.

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Gratitude Exercises for free . These detailed, science-based exercises will help you or your clients connect to more positive emotions and enjoy the benefits of gratitude.

This Article Contains

What are gratitude messages, how to write a gratitude letter, the impact of sharing appreciation messages, writing gratitude cards, 20 inspiring gratitude and appreciation statements.

• Positive Psychology & Gratitude Letter Writing

Gratitude Resources from PositivePsychology.com

A take-home message, frequently asked questions.

“[G]ratitude makes us appreciate the value of something, and when we appreciate the value of something, we extract more benefits from it; we’re less likely to take it for granted,” says Robert Emmons, professor of psychology and gratitude expert at the University of California (cited in Brown, 2021, p. 213).

With gratitude, we become greater participants in our lives, celebrating goodness rather than reacting to it. And what’s more, it’s not passive; it’s something we can invest in and grow, letting it positively impact our relationships and environment (Seligman, 2011; Brown, 2021).

As such, gratitude is a “way of doing, trying, failing, and trying again,” says author and research professor Brené Brown (Brown, 2021, p. 214). We can learn to be equally gracious to ourselves and others and accept that we are a work in progress, attempting to act with gratitude in our daily lives.

But how do you show your gratitude?

Strength expert Ryan Niemiec describes gratitude as when you “regularly experience and express thankfulness,” “don’t take the good things that happen in your life for granted,” and “tend to feel blessed in many circumstances” (Niemiec, 2019, p. 10).

For Professor Martin Seligman (2011), one of the founders of positive psychology, gratitude is enduring thankfulness, with messages of gratitude being expressed to someone that we appreciate as helping or positively influencing our lives and yet have never been properly thanked. It could be as simple as a text message or note given to a friend saying thanks for always being there or a colleague for helping you out of a tight spot.

Because of the many responses he received from the homework and a wealth of findings from controlled studies, he identified that “not only did the writer’s happiness scores go up, their scores on depression were lowered for at least a month following the exercise” (Tomasulo, 2020, p. 129).

While there are several activities surrounding gratitude, letter writing is one of the most commonly researched and validated. And while its positive effect on gratitude, happiness, and wellbeing are profound, it can be summarized by the following three steps (modified from Niemiec, 2018; Seligman, 2011):

• Step one – take a moment to think about someone who has positively impacted your life (whether in the short or long term) that you appreciate, yet may not have thanked properly.
• Step two – write that person a letter describing how you feel about what they have done for you and why you are grateful to them. Seligman describes it as follows, it “should be concrete and about three hundred words: be specific” and mention how often you remember what they did (Seligman, 2011, p. 30).

Rather than a simple thank you for being there, it is best to create a narrative. It may help to reflect on the following questions (modified from Intelligent Change, n.d.):

How and when did you both meet? What are your earliest memories of your relationship? How was your life at the time? What has that person done for you? How did that make you feel then and now? What do they mean to you?

• Step three – while this may not always be an option-or at times the right thing to do-Seligman suggests you take time reading the letter and watch for the other person’s reactions and your own. And then, when finished, discuss the content with them (Seligman, 2011).

Niemiec (2018) points out that the three steps involve more than the strength, or process of, gratitude alone. Writing and sharing gratitude letters engages other character strengths, such as love, perspective, and social intelligence . And undoubtedly, delivering and reading your letter to that person requires bravery and zest .

Writing such a letter is almost always a valuable exercise, increasing gratitude and other positive emotions. However, we cannot guarantee the response the letter receives. There may be occasions when the activity should finish at step two due to safety issues or the risk of unwanted consequences (Niemiec, 2018).

A gratitude letter to a boss

Whether recently or in our earlier careers, we typically remember those bosses that supported us along our professional path or as we faced difficult times in our personal lives.

Treat the following example as a possible template for use in writing a gratitude letter to your boss (past or present). The details, thoughts, and emotions can be added to, removed, swapped around, or embellished upon as appropriate (modified from Hamadey, 2020).

Dear [first name]

I’ve been looking back on all stages of my career and thinking of people who made an impact. You are very high up on the list.

I loved working alongside you at [company name] and felt like your talent, experience, work ethic, and creative ideas lifted me up.

You gave me priceless advice that helped me progress through my career.

When my mother was taken ill, you gave me the time I needed to support my family and get back on my feet.

You continue to have my back and offer great advice, referrals, etc.

In short, your guidance and support helped me along my career path, and I’m grateful to you.

Kindest regards

[Your full name]

As you read through what you have written, consider the feelings that rise up inside you and how the recipient will feel reading your letter.

A gratitude letter to parents

Sending a letter to parents can be a great way of capturing our feelings and sharing our appreciation for them. More personal than the last example, reflect, reuse, and modify some of the following points to capture how you feel about them (modified from Psaila, 2020):

Thank you for:

• Laughing with me through my joy
• Crying with me through my pain
• Taking my sadness and making it your own
• Easing each and every burden
• Sharing my tears with me
• Your beautiful way of living life
• Having the absolute kindest heart
• Teaching me what being a good person truly means
• Showing me what unconditional love truly means.

An example might be as follows (modified from MailToSelf, n.d.):

Dear Mum and Dad,

I have been meaning to write this letter for some time. I wanted to thank you for everything you have done for me. You gave me the best possible start in life, supporting me through school and college and helping me through some tough times since. You have always prioritized my needs and shared both tears and laughter.

Thank you for always supporting me and encouraging me to do my best in life. There will never be enough words to convey how much you both mean to me and how grateful I am for you both showing me what unconditional love truly means.

I love you so much, today, and forever.

Yours lovingly

[Your name]

A gratitude letter to a friend

Our close friends deserve our highest gratitude. They are there when we most need them and can be as close as family – and sometimes more so. While similar to family letters, they may seem more lighthearted and less formal – depending on how you relate to each person, for example (modified from Mayne, 2020):

Dear [friend’s first name]

Friends like you come along once in a lifetime.

I just want you to know how much I appreciate you and your friendship. Whenever I see something that makes me laugh, I want you to be the first to know. It’s wonderful to know that you care enough to stick by my side through the good times and the bad.

You will always be close to my heart!

Love, [Your name]

Download 3 Free Gratitude Exercises (PDF)

These detailed, science-based exercises will equip you or your clients with tools to build daily gratitude habits, express more appreciation toward others, and experience more positive emotions in everyday life.

Download Download 3 Gratitude Tools (PDF)

By filling out your name and email address below.

• Email Address *
• Your Expertise * Your expertise Therapy Coaching Education Counseling Business Healthcare Other
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

In all its forms, showing gratitude and messages of appreciation should ultimately be unburdening, focusing on positive emotions, memories, and thoughts rather than any wrongdoings (Tomasulo, 2020).

Identifying and using the strength of gratitude, has important valuable associations with other mental and physical factors, including (modified from Niemiec, 2018, p. 12):

• Life satisfaction
• Prosocial behavior
• Increased cardiovascular and immune functioning
• Lower levels of anxiety and depression
• Kindness and compassion

Gratitude–both as a strength and an emotion–can be boosted easily with practice. Indeed, gratitude letter writing is so beneficial because research has shown it promotes gratitude, encourages the appreciation of others in your life, and strengthens relationships (Niemiec, 2018).

While writing gratitude letters is an inherently valuable gratitude exercise for both the sender and the receiver, shorter notes (even electronic ones) and cards can be equally powerful. Signature strengths expert, Ryan Niemiec, suggests that you “share your appreciation on a post-it note that you put on someone’s desk as a surprise or send it in a spontaneous email” (Niemiec, 2018, p. 42).

Cards or notes sharing gratitude can be brief – they simply need to be honest and heartfelt. Indeed, it is not necessary to describe everything the person has done for us; it could just be a few sentences as a reminder of when their impact was the greatest and how it made us feel.

Also, while we should try to adopt timely appreciation, there is no statute of limitations on gratitude. A teacher will still be overjoyed to receive a note of thanks from a student from twenty years ago (Hamadey, 2020).

The following statements may offer some helpful prompts (Bowlby, 2021; Shutterfly Community, 2022; Berries.com, 2022):

• Thank you for being the reason I smile.
• Thank you for being you.
• Thank you for brightening my world.
• You’ve always believed in me. Thank you!
• Thank you for being an important part of my story.
• I can’t even begin to explain how much your help means to me.
• Thank you for making so many ordinary moments, extraordinary.
• Thank you for always giving me the extra push I needed.
• Your friendship is a special gift. Generously given, happily accepted, and deeply appreciated!
• Where would I be without a friend like you?
• You are a ray of sunshine to me and everyone else around. Thank you for brightening my day!

Particularly for parents

• Thanks for never asking for reasons or explanations when all I wanted was a long hug and a few laughs.
• Thank you for letting me grow my own wings, for letting me fly, for catching me when I fall, for letting me stand when I can’t, and for assuring me I can fly again.
• Thank you for being my heart’s first home. I love you.
• Thank you for always being there for me. Not just when I needed you, but for when I needed you most.

Boss or colleague

• Thank you for having confidence in my abilities.
• Thank you for being such an inspiration to me and others around you.
• Thank you for leading by example.
• I want to express my gratitude for everything you’ve helped me achieve here.
• Thank you for always going above and beyond to ensure the success of a project.

Positive Psychology & Gratitude Letter Writing

Positive psychology recognizes the importance of relationships. In fact, make up the ‘R’ in Martin Seligman’s model of wellbeing, ‘PERMA’ – the others being positive emotions, engagement, meaningful living, and achievement or accomplishment (Seligman, 2011).

For relationships to be at their best, it is helpful to refocus positively–and with appreciation–on their past, present, and future, especially when going through a tough time. After all, while our relationships have the power to boost wellbeing and increase happiness, they are also “a major part of the cause for people to slip into depression” (Tomasulo, 2020, p. 128). Gratitude can help develop new relationships and maintain existing ones.

Not only that, in a 2005 study, Seligman compared writing gratitude letters with other positive psychological interventions and found they offered the greatest initial increase of happiness.

While gratitude may not cure mental illness, it is a vital, life-enhancing emotion and a practice that can enrich our lives in meaningful ways (Brown, 2021).

17 Exercises To Nurture Gratitude & Appreciation

Empower others with more hope, satisfaction, and fulfilling relationships with these 17 Gratitude & Appreciation Exercises [PDF] that harness the powerful benefits of gratitude.

Created by Experts. 100% Science-based.

We have many resources available to foster gratitude as an emotion and a strength by improving our skills at increasing and showing our appreciation for others:

Why not download our free Three Gratitude Exercises Pack and try out the powerful tools contained within, including:

• Step one – identify everyday activities that bring pleasure
• Step two – experience pleasure as it happens by aiming to savor two activities a day for two weeks.
• Step three – reflect on how the savoring rituals went.
• Step 1: Recall a recent awe experience
• Step 2: Describe the awe experience
• (Optional) Step 3: Create an awe diary

Reliving awe moments allows us to re-experience some of the positivity they initially evoked in us. Taking a moment to document awe moments encourages us to savor and enjoy the experience for a little longer and store and recall the memory to re-enjoy positive emotions in the future.

Other free resources include:

• Gratitude journal Use the Gratitude Journal to list people and events to be grateful for and reflect on the best part of each day.
• Gratitude gifts A delightful drawing task for children to capture on paper things they are grateful for in their lives.

More extensive versions of the following tools are available with a subscription to the Positive Psychology Toolkit© , but they are described briefly below:

• Replacing Non-Grateful Thoughts With Grateful Thoughts While gratitude is a basic human emotion, ungratefulness has been described as the solvent of social bonds and an assault on flourishing human life (Mikoski, 2011).

The following steps can help the client replace thoughts of ingratitude:

• Step one – identify an ungrateful thought
• Step two – formulate a grateful alternative
• Step three – replace the ungrateful thought with the grateful one
• Step four – translate the positive feelings that arise into action.
• Daily Gratitude Check-In

Gratitude is the process of (1) acknowledging that one has achieved a positive outcome and (2) recognizing an external source contributed to this positive outcome (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).

This brief ‘check-in’ helps the client connect to their feelings of gratitude. After all, gratitude is more than knowing what you are thankful for; it is also an experience.

If you’re looking for more science-based ways to help others harness the benefits of gratitude, this collection contains 17 validated gratitude tools for practitioners. Use them to help others shift to a more positive mindset and experience the joys of life more deeply.

Gratitude is an emotion, strength, and practice, and it helps us appreciate the value of something. As such, it is something we can learn and build upon, ultimately becoming integral to who we are and our positive relationships with the people and world around us.

To experience gratitude, we must regularly experience and express thankfulness and not take the good things in our lives for granted.

Writing gratitude letters promotes enduring thankfulness, sharing appreciation with those that have positively influenced our lives and yet may have never been properly thanked. Such notes include our feelings towards the recipient, acknowledging what they have done and how they have supported us.

And yet gratitude can be kept brief. It is not necessary to describe everything the person has done, but serves as a reminder of when their impact was the greatest and how it made us feel. Also, while we should try to adopt timely appreciation, there is no statute of limitations on gratitude.

Gratitude letters can help develop new relationships, maintain existing ones, and increase happiness and wellbeing and are a valuable tool for the therapist working with a client or as a standalone practice for self-development.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don’t forget to download our three Gratitude Exercises for free .

Ed: Updated August 2022

To say thank you meaningfully, start by expressing genuine gratitude and appreciation towards the person or people you are addressing. Be specific and mention the things they have done for you and how it has made a difference in your life.

The best thank-you message is one that is genuine, specific, and heartfelt.

Start by expressing your gratitude and appreciation towards the person or people you are addressing, then mention the specific things they did for you that you are thankful for.

Finally, end the message with another thank you and well wishes for the person’s continued happiness and success.

• Thank you for always being a dependable and supportive partner. Your loyalty and kindness mean the world to me.
• I am very grateful for the moments of joy and laughter you bring into my life.
• Algoe, S. B., Gable, S. L., & Maisel, N. C. (2010). It’s the little things: Everyday gratitude as a booster shot for romantic relationships. Personal Relationships, 17(2) , 217-233.
• Berries.com. (2022). 85 ways to say thank you + printables for your message . Retrieved August 5, 2022, from https://www.berries.com/blog/ways-to-say-thank-you
• Bowlby, K. (2021). 45 quotes that Perfectly Express How Thankful You Are . Retrieved August 5, 2022, from https://www.countryliving.com/life/g29536898/thankful-quotes/
• Brown, B. (2021). Atlas of the heart . London: Vermilion.
• Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology , 84, 377-389.
• Hamadey, G. (2020). How to write a gratitude letter-plus a sample letter of gratitude . Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://www.ginahamadey.com/blog/howtowriteagratitudeletter
• Intelligent Change. (n.d.). How to write a gratitude letter to a friend or a loved one . Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://www.intelligentchange.com/blogs/read/how-to-write-a-gratitude-letter
• MailToSelf.com (n.d.) Thank you letter to mom and dad . Retrieved August 5, 2022, from https://www.mailtoself.com/thank-you/thank-you-letter-to-mom-and-dad/
• Mayne, D. (2020). Thank You Note Ideas for Friendship . Retrieved August 4, 2022, from https://www.thespruce.com/thank-you-note-samples-for-friendship-1216785
• Mikoski, G.S. (2011). On gratitude. Theology Today , 67, 387-390.
• Niemiec, R. M. (2018). Character strengths interventions: A field guide for Practitioners . Boston: Hogrefe.
• Niemiec, R. (2019). Strengths-based workbook for stress relief: A character strengths approach to finding calm in… the chaos of daily life . Oakland: New Harbinger Publications.
• Psaila, F. (2020). A thank you letter for my parents . Retrieved August 5, 2022, from https://thoughtcatalog.com/francesca-psaila/2020/04/a-thank-you-letter-for-my-parents/
• Seligman, M. (2011). Flourish: A new understanding of happiness and well-being and how to achieve them . London: Nicholas Brealey Publishing.
• Shutterfly Community. (2022). The best thank you quotes and sayings for 2022: Shutterfly . Retrieved August 5, 2022, from https://www.shutterfly.com/ideas/thank-you-quotes/
• Tomasulo, D. (2020). Learned hopefulness: The power of positivity to overcome depression . Oakland: New Harbinger.

Share this article:

Article feedback

What our readers think.

Thank you for your tips. I have been wanting to write about my physiotherapist in a long time but could not put into words of what a wonderful person he is.

As someone who is passionate about the topics you cover, I’ve found your website to be an invaluable resource.

Thank you for sharing this amazing blog that was of great help to me and I decided to follow each word in it

Let us know your thoughts Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related articles

30 Best Journaling Prompts for Improving Mental Health

In our vast arsenal of therapeutic strategies, using journal prompts for self-reflection can be a powerful practice that bridges the therapeutic space and the client’s [...]

11 Best Gratitude Apps to Increase Your Wellbeing

Traditionally, the end of the year is a time of reflection and gratitude. It is a time to say thank you on Thanksgiving Day, a [...]

The Gratitude Journal: Prompts, PDFs, and Worksheets

The act of gratitude plays an important role in psychological wellbeing and self-actualization (Maslow, 1981). Regular expression of gratitude leads to increased feelings of happiness [...]

Read other articles by their category

• Body & Brain (49)
• Coaching & Application (58)
• Compassion (25)
• Counseling (51)
• Emotional Intelligence (23)
• Gratitude (18)
• Grief & Bereavement (21)
• Happiness & SWB (40)
• Meaning & Values (26)
• Meditation (20)
• Mindfulness (44)
• Motivation & Goals (45)
• Optimism & Mindset (34)
• Positive CBT (30)
• Positive Communication (21)
• Positive Education (47)
• Positive Emotions (32)
• Positive Leadership (19)
• Positive Parenting (16)
• Positive Psychology (34)
• Positive Workplace (37)
• Productivity (17)
• Relationships (44)
• Resilience & Coping (38)
• Self Awareness (21)
• Self Esteem (38)
• Strengths & Virtues (32)
• Stress & Burnout Prevention (34)
• Theory & Books (46)
• Therapy Exercises (37)
• Types of Therapy (64)
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

3 Gratitude Exercises Pack

7 Brilliant Ways to End Any Presentation: When to Use a Presentation Thank You Address

I like building and growing simple yet powerful products for the world and the worldwide web.

Published Date : December 4, 2020

Reading Time :

As important as an introduction is to a Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech presentation, the end of your presentation is what you leave your audience with.  Giving a proper presentation thank you address is a helpful public speaking skill .

When is it appropriate to simply say “thank you” and close your presentation?

In what moments does a presentation require more from you? 

How do you tell your audience to thank you for watching my presentation if you made a visual presentation?

What is the importance of saying thank you to your audience for listening?

We intend to answer all these questions in this article, and we hope you read the whole page to understand the complete concept of the presentation. Thank you. 

How Should I End a Presentation? Different Ways of Ending a Speech Or a Presentation

As a Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech expert who has attended many presentations and orations, I can tell that each presenter concludes their Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech in different ways. Most speakers will showcase presentation thank you images as a visual aid at the end of a PowerPoint, while others give a summary. 

Irrespective of the speaker’s methods, here are seven ways to end a presentation or speech .

1. Closing with a Summary

 Summarizing key points of your Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech when concluding an oration is an age-old method of finishing your address. It is a technique speakers and writers use to close and ensure their audience remembers their main point.

Using a summary for closure is common with lectures and the traditional presentation thank-you addresses.

2. Closing with the Power of Three

The Power of Three uses a pattern of three words, phrases, or more to emphasize a point and make it more memorable. A typical phrase Julius Caesar uses is “I came, I saw, I conquered.”

3. Closing with Metaphors

Metaphors are a figure of Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech that compares two entities figuratively and makes it seem like they are the same. In basic English Language, the definition of metaphors indicates a form of comparison without using comparative words (for example, like and as).

It is ideal for Motivational speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:374">A <strong>motivational speech</strong> aims to inspire, encourage, and energize an audience. It ignites their passion, sparks action, and instills a sense of belief in themselves and their ability to achieve their goals. It is a powerful tool used in <strong>professional speaking</strong> to boost morale, drive performance, and foster a positive and collaborative environment.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:17"><strong>Key Elements:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-12:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:145"><strong>Compelling vision:</strong> Articulate a clear and inspiring vision for the future, outlining goals and aspirations that resonate with the audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:140"><strong>Empathy and understanding:</strong> Acknowledge challenges and obstacles, demonstrating empathy and connection with the audience's experiences.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:134"><strong>Empowering message:</strong> Focus on empowering the audience, emphasizing their strengths, potential, and ability to overcome obstacles.</li> <li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:170"><strong>Storytelling and anecdotes:</strong> Integrate relatable stories, personal experiences, or inspiring examples to illustrate points and connect with the audience emotionally.</li> <li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0"><strong>Call to action:</strong> Provide a clear and actionable call to action, motivating the audience to take specific steps towards achieving their goals.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="13:1-13:38"><strong>Benefits of Motivational Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="15:1-20:0"> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:116"><strong>Boosts morale and motivation:</strong> Inspires individuals to strive for their full potential and overcome challenges.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:142"><strong>Promotes teamwork and collaboration:</strong> Fosters a shared purpose and encourages individuals to work together towards common goals.</li> <li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:118"><strong>Enhances confidence and self-belief:</strong> Empowers individuals to believe in themselves and their ability to succeed.</li> <li data-sourcepos="18:1-18:121"><strong>Increases creativity and innovation:</strong> Inspires individuals to think outside the box and pursue innovative solutions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="19:1-20:0"><strong>Drives positive change:</strong> Motivates individuals to take action and contribute to positive change in their personal and professional lives.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="21:1-21:46"><strong>Developing a Powerful Motivational Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="23:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:96"><strong>Define your purpose:</strong> Identify the desired outcome you want your speech to achieve.</li> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:119"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Understand their motivations, challenges, and aspirations to tailor your message effectively.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:134"><strong>Focus on storytelling:</strong> Use compelling stories and anecdotes to illustrate your points and connect with the audience emotionally.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:170"><strong>Practice and rehearse:</strong> Hone your delivery to refine timing, vocal variety, and stage presence. Consider using <strong>public speaking tips</strong> to enhance your presentation.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Deliver with passion and authenticity:</strong> Inject your enthusiasm and genuine belief in your message to inspire the audience.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:20"><strong>Additional Tips:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:123"><strong>Use humor strategically:</strong> Use humor appropriately to lighten the mood and connect with the audience on a deeper level.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:121"><strong>Embrace your personality:</strong> Let your unique personality shine through to create a genuine and captivating connection.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:121"><strong>End with a memorable closing:</strong> Leave the audience with a powerful quote, inspiring call to action, or lasting image.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Seek </strong>feedback from trusted colleagues or advisors to refine your speech and delivery.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:371"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="36:1-36:371">A well-crafted and delivered <strong>motivational speech</strong> can be a transformative experience for both the speaker and the audience. By understanding the key elements, focusing on your audience, and honing your <strong>professional speaking</strong> skills, you can deliver speeches that ignite passion, inspire action, and empower individuals to achieve their full potential.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/motivational-speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">motivational speech presentations and graduation speeches . This type of closing works perfectly if you use an analogy, anecdote, or reference to the comparative subject during your presentation.

4. Using Facts to Recreate Engagement

Some of the most memorable Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech presentations end with things that regain the audience’s attention. If you search Google, you will find facts related to your discussion and share them to surprise your audience.

5. Using an Illustration or Image

Similar to metaphors, you can finish with stories or use an illustration to close. This method is quite common because many orators can use it to start and end their speeches.

Visual aids are essential to help drive your point across when you present, and you can also use them to close effectively.

6. Closing with a Quote or a Short Sentence

If you can condense your summary to a less wordy, short sentence, it tends to leave a longer-lasting impression on your listeners. It is essential to ensure that the short message conveys your authenticity and the importance of your message.

Using a quote is a timeless way to conclude any type of Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech or presentation. However, it is essential to have a quote relevant to your address; if not, you can make a quote out of a point you made while presenting.

7. Making a Provocative Closing

Closing provocatively uses calls to action to move your audience toward a particular goal. An example of this type of conclusion is usually observed with preachers, activists, and advertisers.

Many preachers make altar calls at the end of their sermons, and activists usually end with a wake-up call to move the audience to action.

What is the Best Way to End a PowerPoint Presentation?

PowerPoint presentations take a lot of time and can take an audience almost no time to forget. Figuring out how to make a strong closing will help give your audience something to remember. 

The way you close each ppt depends on the nature of your discussion. 

Closing a Persuasive PPT

Your thank you note for the presentation after a persuasive PowerPoint should win the members of your audience over. To convince them ultimately, you can include:

• A call-to-action
• Verified facts

Closing an Informative PPT

Informative PPTs share data, so the ideal closure for them is a presentation thank-you images that show:

• A summary of all the ideas you shared
• A conclusive concept map
• Bulleted key points
• A recap of the objectives of the presentation

Closing an Introductory PPT

The general concept of introductory Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech presentations is to:

If you give an initial pitch, the best presentation thank you images will give your audience a proper means to contact you or follow up on your next program. 

Note: When concluding any PowerPoint, your thank you for watching my presentation slide will naturally need to follow the same pattern as the entire PPT. It is also helpful if you are creative with the presentation. Thank you.

The General Importance of Saying Thank You

Saying thank you means expressing gratitude for an action completed or a gift. In any setting, your ability to express gratitude, irrespective of whether or not you deserved the service you got, goes a long way.  

Some advantages of expressing gratitude include:

What is the importance of presenting thank you images?

As a part of the audience, after listening to a speaker talk all day, especially when you can leave but stay, a minute presentation thank you would suffice.

It’s no secret that some presenters do not say thank you after their Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech , so what do you gain by thanking your audience?

• It helps you reinforce already established values. 
• Strengthens speaker-audience relationships. 
• Serves as a foundation for trust.
• Stimulates conversation by question and answer strategies.
• It makes you unique in numerous places.

How to Say Thank You at the End of Your Presentation: Simple Tips and Tricks

Saying thank you is not only about expressing gratitude. Often, saying thank you is a business strategy, and presenting thank you images must  prove their worth for your business.

Some simple pointers to remember are:

• Remain professional
• Avoid grammatical errors as much as possible.
• Try not to seem salesy; instead, be polite.
• Employ perfect timing

Using the Right Voice Tone

Every type of presentation setting demands a specific tone type. You will need to adjust your tone to avoid being misunderstood.

Personalize It and Try to Maintain Relevance

It is rather rude to use a copy-and-paste post-presentation thank you message. Instead, it’s best to make a unique, personalized thank-you note that is audience-specific.

Additionally, it’s best to remain within the subject matter for the conclusion by sharing relevant information.

Ask Questions and Answer Previous Ones

If you have any questions before the presentation, it is best to answer them now. If you used an “any questions slide,” you can also answer questions from there.

When your time starts finishing, and you cannot answer any more questions, try to provide contact details or follow up with their concerns.

Practice the perfect end to your presentation with Orai

When to Use and When to Avoid a Thank You Presentation Slide

Using tact is a vital tool when facing Public Speaking <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Public speaking refers to any live presentation or speech. It can cover a variety of topics on various fields and careers (you can find out more about public speaking careers here: https://orai.com/blog/public-speaking-careers/.  Public speaking can inform, entertain, or educate an audience and sometimes has visual aids.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><br /><!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Public speaking is done live, so the speakers need to consider certain factors to deliver a successful speech. No matter how good the speech is, if the audience doesn't connect with the speaker, then it may fall flat. Therefore, speakers have to use a lot more nonverbal communication techniques to deliver their message. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><br /><!-- wp:heading --> <h2>Tips for public speaking</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --><br /><!-- wp:list --> <ul> <li>Have a sense of humor.</li> <li>Tell personal stories that relate to the speech you're giving.</li> <li>Dress appropriately for the event. Formal and business casual outfits work best.</li> <li>Project a confident and expressive voice.</li> <li>Always try to use simple language that everyone can understand.</li> <li>Stick to the time given to you.</li> <li>Maintain eye contact with members of your audience and try to connect with them.</li> </ul> <!-- /wp:list --> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/public-speaking/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">public speaking opportunities. Knowing when it is okay to share a thank you presentation slide and when it isn’t necessary is essential.

Some of the times when saying thank you for listening to my presentation is appropriate and essential are:

• When you have an audience that shows up voluntarily, it is essential to express gratitude.
• If you are expressing gratitude to your team for putting in hard work
• If your audience needed to travel to attend your presentation

On the other hand, there are some situations when presentation thank you images are either inappropriate or unnecessary:

• If you plan to answer questions after your presentation or host an interactive session, presentation thank you images will prompt your audience to leave the meeting.
• If your presentation has terrible news, a presentation thank you will be insensitive and inappropriate.
• When you need to assign a task or follow up on anything, it’s better to end with that than a thank you slide.

Potential Alternatives to a Presentation Thank You Image

Ending with a simple presentation, thank you, is often seen as a weak presentation. It is usually best to complete your presentation creatively or using a call-to-action. 

So, in what ways can you effectively end your Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech using visual aids without needing to use presentation thank you images?

Using a “One More Thing” Slide

This type of presentation thank you option introduces (for lack of a better term) the final bomb or the hidden gem. For example, if you were introducing a new product, your one more thing slide would probably show an unexpected benefit of purchasing the product to woo your audience.

This type of slide is inappropriate for every presentation, so you will have to consider the nature of your audience when inputting this idea.

A Slide that Continues the Conversation

This type of ending could feature a form of presentation thank you that continues the discussion. It may be a bunch of arguments that gear your audience’s communication with each other or with you.

Ideally, you will need to provide them with contact information so they can communicate with you after you finish. If you are searching for new prospects for partnership or employment, this is the best slide to include such details.

Closing with “Any Questions?”

This type of closing is the most common aside from the mainstream presentation thank you images. As I stated earlier, it isn’t appropriate to include a presentation thank you if you hope to continue any discussion. 

Asking for questions boosts audience engagement and serves as a memory aid so they remember your presentation. However, it isn’t uncommon to have no one asking you questions while you present. 

If you want to avoid the awkwardness of an unanswered no-questions slide, here are some things you can try:

• Asking the first question yourself is an icebreaker.; your inquiry has the potential to open room for more questions
• Ask a friend in the audience to break the ice with the first question.
• Asking your audience to prepare for questions in advance by providing them with the necessary materials
• Distributing pre-presenting writing material to the audience to motivate them to write down questions they might have had during your Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech so that you can answer them effectively.

Practice your presentations with Orai. Get feedback on your tone, tempo, Confidence <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:305">In the context of <strong>public speaking</strong>, <strong>confidence</strong> refers to the belief in one's ability to communicate effectively and deliver one's message with clarity and impact. It encompasses various elements, including self-belief, composure, and the ability to manage one's <strong>fear of public speaking</strong>.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:16"><strong>Key Aspects:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-12:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:108"><strong>Self-belief:</strong> A strong conviction in your knowledge, skills, and ability to connect with your audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:95"><strong>Composure:</strong> Maintaining calmness and poise under pressure, even in challenging situations.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:100"><strong>Assertiveness:</strong> Expressing your ideas clearly and concisely, avoiding hesitation or self-doubt.</li> <li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:104"><strong>Positive self-talk:</strong> Countering negative thoughts with affirmations and focusing on your strengths.</li> <li data-sourcepos="11:1-12:0"><strong>Strong body language:</strong> Using gestures, posture, and eye contact that project confidence and professionalism.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="13:1-13:27"><strong>Benefits of Confidence:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="15:1-19:0"> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:99"><strong>Reduced anxiety:</strong> Feeling confident helps manage <strong>fear of public speaking</strong> and stage fright.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:133"><strong>Engaging delivery:</strong> Confident speakers project their voices, hold eye contact, and connect with their audience more effectively.</li> <li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:137"><strong>Increased persuasiveness:</strong> A confident presentation inspires belief and motivates your audience to listen and remember your message.</li> <li data-sourcepos="18:1-19:0"><strong>Greater impact:</strong> Confidently delivered speeches leave a lasting impression and achieve desired outcomes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="20:1-20:15"><strong>Challenges:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="22:1-26:0"> <li data-sourcepos="22:1-22:112">Overcoming <strong>fear of public speaking</strong>: Many people experience some level of anxiety when speaking publicly.</li> <li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:101"><strong>Imposter syndrome:</strong> Doubting your abilities and qualifications, even when objectively qualified.</li> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:92"><strong>Negative self-talk:</strong> Internalized criticism and limiting beliefs can hamper confidence.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-26:0"><strong>Past negative experiences:</strong> Unsuccessful presentations or negative feedback can erode confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="27:1-27:24"><strong>Building Confidence:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="29:1-36:0"> <li data-sourcepos="29:1-29:102"><strong>Practice and preparation:</strong> Thoroughly rehearse your speech to feel comfortable with the material.</li> <li data-sourcepos="30:1-30:101"><strong>Visualization:</strong> Imagine yourself delivering a successful presentation with confidence and poise.</li> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:100"><strong>Positive self-talk:</strong> Actively replace negative thoughts with affirmations about your abilities.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:106"><strong>Seek feedback:</strong> Ask trusted individuals for constructive criticism and use it to improve your skills.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:157">Consider a <strong>speaking coach</strong>: Working with a coach can provide personalized guidance and support to address specific challenges and confidence barriers.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-34:114"><strong>Start small:</strong> Gradually increase the size and complexity of your speaking engagements as you gain experience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="35:1-36:0"><strong>Focus on progress:</strong> Celebrate small successes and acknowledge your improvement over time.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="37:1-37:282"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="37:1-37:282"><strong>Confidence</strong> in public speaking is a journey, not a destination. By actively practicing, embracing feedback, and focusing on your strengths, you can overcome <strong>fear of public speaking</strong> and develop the <strong>confidence</strong> to deliver impactful and memorable presentations.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/confidence/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">confidence , and consciousness to help you get your presentation on point.

Thank You Letters: Taking it A Step Further

Numerous presentations, especially business idea pitching, hardly lead to immediate sales. In such a case, ending with a presentation, thank you, and contact information isn’t enough. 

You will need to take it further by sending a thank you letter so they can remind you, mostly if they have already forgotten. So, how do you follow up on a potential client or previous sponsor with a presentation? Thank you.

Elements of a Good Thank You Letter

When writing an excellent thank you letter, you must consider elements to ensure that your recipient reads it and carries out the appropriate action. 

You do not require a soothsayer to tell you that people do not read every letter. So, how do you beat the odds and make your message worthwhile? Here are some elements you can include to that effect.

A Strong Subject Line

If you can remember the times you intentionally opened spam mail, I am sure it had something to do with the subject. Most companies treat letters like this as spam and have no reason to read them.

However, if you can create a subject line that clearly states your intentions, you have a better chance of having your mail read.

Clearly Expressed Gratitude

Start the letter by expressing gratitude for attending your presentation and giving you time. You can also include other factors in your message that you need to express gratitude for.

A Summary of Your Presentation 

They aren’t likely to have any reason to remember all the points you made during your presentation. Now is the perfect time to remind them and highlight the issues you presented they could have missed. 

It’s best to use bullet points to give them room for skim reading. Additionally, if you have reached an agreement, you should include it in the letter for Clarity <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:269">In <strong>public speaking</strong>, <strong>clarity</strong> refers to the quality of your message being readily understood and interpreted by your audience. It encompasses both the content and delivery of your speech, ensuring your message resonates and leaves a lasting impact.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:16"><strong>Key Aspects:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-13:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:133"><strong>Conciseness:</strong> Avoid unnecessary details, digressions, or excessive complexity. Focus on delivering the core message efficiently.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:149"><strong>Simple language:</strong> Choose words and phrases your audience understands readily, avoiding jargon or technical terms unless you define them clearly.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-9:145"><strong>Logical structure:</strong> Organize your thoughts and ideas logically, using transitions and signposts to guide your audience through your message.</li> <li data-sourcepos="10:1-10:136"><strong>Effective visuals:</strong> If using visuals, ensure they are clear, contribute to your message, and don't distract from your spoken words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="11:1-11:144"><strong>Confident delivery:</strong> Speak clearly and articulately, avoiding mumbling or rushing your words. Maintain good eye contact with your audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="12:1-13:0"><strong>Active voice:</strong> Emphasize active voice for better flow and avoid passive constructions that can be less engaging.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="14:1-14:24"><strong>Benefits of Clarity:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="16:1-20:0"> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-16:123"><strong>Enhanced audience engagement:</strong> A clear message keeps your audience interested and helps them grasp your points easily.</li> <li data-sourcepos="17:1-17:123"><strong>Increased credibility:</strong> Clear communication projects professionalism and expertise, building trust with your audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="18:1-18:111"><strong>Improved persuasiveness:</strong> A well-understood message is more likely to resonate and win over your audience.</li> <li data-sourcepos="19:1-20:0"><strong>Reduced confusion:</strong> Eliminating ambiguity minimizes misinterpretations and ensures your message arrives as intended.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="21:1-21:15"><strong>Challenges:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="23:1-27:0"> <li data-sourcepos="23:1-23:129"><strong>Condensing complex information:</strong> Simplifying complex topics without sacrificing crucial details requires skill and practice.</li> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:128"><strong>Understanding your audience:</strong> Tailoring your language and structure to resonate with a diverse audience can be challenging.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:85"><strong>Managing nerves:</strong> Nerves can impact your delivery, making it unclear or rushed.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-27:0"><strong>Avoiding jargon:</strong> Breaking technical habits and simplifying language requires constant awareness.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="28:1-28:22"><strong>Improving Clarity:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="30:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="30:1-30:117"><strong>Practice and rehearse:</strong> The more you rehearse your speech, the more natural and clear your delivery will become.</li> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:107"><strong>Seek feedback:</strong> Share your draft speech with others and ask for feedback on clarity and comprehension.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:161"><strong>Consider a public speaking coach:</strong> A coach can provide personalized guidance on structuring your message, simplifying language, and improving your delivery.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:128"><strong>Join a public speaking group:</strong> Practicing in a supportive environment can help you gain confidence and refine your clarity.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Listen to effective speakers:</strong> Analyze how clear and impactful others achieve communication.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:250"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="36:1-36:250"><strong>Clarity</strong> is a cornerstone of impactful <strong>public speaking</strong>. By honing your message, focusing on delivery, and actively seeking feedback, you can ensure your audience receives your message clearly and leaves a lasting impression.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/clarity/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">clarity .

Answers to Prior Questions 

If they had questions you could not answer while presenting, now is the perfect time to answer them. It is a gesture that shows potential clients that you care about their concerns.

Additionally, you can encourage more questions to keep the conversation going.

A Professional Closing Note

Most people have customized closing remarks that they send with each mail that usually have the following characteristics in small icons:

• Your name and position in the company
• The company’s name (and logo, if possible)
• The company’s website URL

Practice with Orai and become an expert

Final Tips For Thank You Letters and Speeches 

Irrespective of how you decide to make your presentation thank you slide, these six tips will help you:

• Include a call to action for your audience.
• Try not to end with questions.
• Refer to the opening message.
• Use anecdotes to summarize.
• Incorporate the rule of three where you can.
• Avoid leaving your audience confused about whether or not your presentation is over.

Examples of Presentation Thank You Letter

Subject line: A follow-up on (topic or product)

Hi (insert name)

Express gratitude: I am grateful you took the time to attend today’s program. (Include gratitude for any other sacrifice they made.

Here is a quick recap (___) 

Concerning your questions on ___, here is an attachment with detailed answers. Feel free to ask further questions.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regard,

Business Signature

How should you make a clear call to action to the audience at the end of a presentation?

A powerful presentation ends with a clear, direct call to action. Don’t hope your message inspires action – explicitly tell your audience what you want them to do, why it matters, and its impact. Make it specific, compelling, and relevant, using examples or statistics to drive home the importance. Leave them knowing exactly what steps to take next and the benefits or consequences involved, maximizing your chances of a positive response.

When is it beneficial to ask a rhetorical question at the end of a talk?

Want your talk to linger? End with a powerful rhetorical question! It sparks reflection, reinforces key points, and piques curiosity, leaving your audience captivated long after the presentation ends. Use it to challenge, inspire, and make your message truly unforgettable.

How can you utilize a cartoon or animation to conclude your presentation effectively?

Utilizing a cartoon or animation to conclude your presentation effectively involves integrating visuals that complement your message. Consider incorporating a relevant cartoon that conveys a metaphor or key idea of your presentation. Using humor in the cartoon can also help engage your audience and make your message more memorable. By ending on a visual note, you can leave a lasting impression and reinforce the main points you want your audience to remember.

How should you end a presentation without a “Questions?” slide?

To wrap up a presentation without a designated “Questions?” slide, it is beneficial to encourage audience interaction throughout the presentation by allowing questions to be asked at any point. This ensures that the questions and answers are directly related to the content being discussed. However, if questions are to be fielded at the end of the presentation, a powerful technique is to conclude with a striking image that reinforces and encapsulates the central message or theme addressed during the talk. This visual aid should be a memorable takeaway for the audience, leaving a lasting impression that harmonizes with the presentation’s content. Utilizing this method, you can successfully conclude your presentation on a strong note without needing a specific “Questions?” slide.

Why is it recommended to use a summary slide instead of a “Thank You” slide at the end of a presentation?

Skip the “Questions?” slide! Encourage real-time engagement throughout, then end with a powerful image that resonates with your message. It’ll be a memorable takeaway; no dedicated question slide is needed!

How can quotes and interesting anecdotes be effectively integrated into the conclusion of a speech?

Spice up your Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech conclusion: ditch the tired quotes and choose fresh voices relevant to your audience and topic. Share authentic anecdotes that resonate personally, and weave them seamlessly with your reflections for deeper impact. Memorable endings leave audiences thinking long after your final words.

When used as a closing statement, what impact can a short, memorable sentence or sound bite have on the audience?

Short and sweet: Ditch lengthy closings! Craft a concise, magnetic sentence that captures your message. In today’s attention-deficit world, it’ll linger long after your Speech <p data-sourcepos="3:1-3:271">A form of communication involving spoken language, it is used to express ideas, share information, tell stories, persuade, or entertain. Public speaking is a powerful tool used in diverse contexts, ranging from casual conversations to formal presentations.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="5:1-5:27"><strong>Components of a Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="7:1-10:0"> <li data-sourcepos="7:1-7:73"><strong>Content:</strong> The information, message, or story conveyed through words.</li> <li data-sourcepos="8:1-8:106"><strong>Delivery:</strong> The vocal and physical presentation, including clarity, volume, gestures, and eye contact.</li> <li data-sourcepos="9:1-10:0"><strong>Structure:</strong> The organization of the content, typically following an introduction, body, and conclusion.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="11:1-11:21"><strong>Speech in Action:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="13:1-17:0"> <li data-sourcepos="13:1-13:88"><strong>Informing:</strong> Sharing knowledge and facts, educating an audience on a specific topic.</li> <li data-sourcepos="14:1-14:119"><strong>Persuading:</strong> Advocating for a particular viewpoint, using arguments and evidence to influence thoughts or actions.</li> <li data-sourcepos="15:1-15:93"><strong>Motivating:</strong> Inspiring and energizing an audience, fostering action and positive change.</li> <li data-sourcepos="16:1-17:0"><strong>Entertaining:</strong> Engaging and delighting an audience through humor, storytelling, or creative language.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="18:1-18:32"><strong>Public Speaking and Anxiety:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="20:1-20:227">Many people experience <strong>public speaking anxiety</strong>, a fear of speaking in front of an audience. While it's common, effective preparation, practice, and breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety and improve delivery.</p><br /><h2 data-sourcepos="22:1-22:32"><strong>Different Types of Speeches:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="24:1-28:0"> <li data-sourcepos="24:1-24:81"><strong>Informative speech:</strong> Focuses on conveying information clearly and concisely.</li> <li data-sourcepos="25:1-25:102"><strong>Persuasive speech:</strong> Aims to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.</li> <li data-sourcepos="26:1-26:99"><strong>Motivational speech:</strong> Inspires and energizes the audience, building enthusiasm and commitment.</li> <li data-sourcepos="27:1-28:0"><strong>Entertaining speech:</strong> Aim to amuse and delight the audience, often using humor, storytelling, or anecdotes.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="29:1-29:33"><strong>Crafting a Compelling Speech:</strong></h2> <ul data-sourcepos="31:1-35:0"> <li data-sourcepos="31:1-31:106"><strong>Know your audience:</strong> Tailor your content and delivery to their interests, needs, and prior knowledge.</li> <li data-sourcepos="32:1-32:107"><strong>Have a clear message:</strong> Identify the main point you want to convey and structure your speech around it.</li> <li data-sourcepos="33:1-33:111"><strong>Engage your audience:</strong> Use varied vocal techniques, storytelling, and visual aids to keep them interested.</li> <li data-sourcepos="34:1-35:0"><strong>Practice, practice, practice:</strong> Rehearse your speech out loud to refine your delivery and build confidence.</li> </ul> <h2 data-sourcepos="36:1-36:13"><strong>Remember:</strong></h2> <p data-sourcepos="38:1-38:281">Speech is a powerful tool for communication, connection, and influence. By understanding its elements, addressing potential anxieties, and tailoring your delivery to different contexts, you can harness the power of speech to achieve your intended goals and captivate your audience.</p> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/speech/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">speech , leaving a powerful impression and resonating with your audience. Remember, short and impactful embodies your voice and drive home your key points. Boom!

In what situations is it appropriate to acknowledge individuals or companies at the end of a presentation?

Say thanks! Publicly acknowledging collaborators, data sources, and presentation helpers in research, information use, and preparation scenarios shows respect, professionalism, and gratitude. Use both verbal mentions and presentation software credits for maximum impact. Remember, a little appreciation goes a long way!

How can visual aids, such as a running clock or images, be employed to emphasize key points during the conclusion of a speech?

End with a bang! Use visuals like a ticking clock to build urgency or powerful images to solidify your message. Leave them on display for reflection, letting the visuals do the final talking and ensuring your key points leave a lasting impression.

How can surprising facts be used to re-engage the audience’s attention at the end of a presentation?

Surprise them! When attention fades, drop a shocking fact with stats. Use online resources to find fresh info, keeping sources handy for Q&A. It’ll re-energize them, offering new insights and solidifying your credibility. Boom!

What role can storytelling play in concluding a presentation and engaging the audience?

Storytime! Wrap up with a short, impactful story – personal or relevant to your topic. Think customer experience or a case study with heart. Make it relatable, spark empathy, and tie it back to your key points. Boom – a memorable, engaging ending that sticks!

How can I make my presentation memorable using the “power of three” communication method?

Rule of three! Organize your conclusion in trios: points, examples, and stories. Brains love patterns and threes stick! Memorable, impactful, and resonating – that’s your ending goal. Keep it simple, repeat key points, and leave them with a lasting impression.

How can I effectively end a presentation or speech to leave a lasting impression on the audience?

Nail your ending! Use the power of three: storytelling, surprising facts, or visuals to grab attention. Acknowledge others, craft a short & memorable closing, summarize key points, repeat key messages, and end with energy to inspire action. Leave a lasting impression, not a fade-out!

How can you ensure that your audience understands when your presentation has concluded?

End strong! Rule of three for impact, clear closing cue (no guessing!), confident “thank you,” and wait for applause. No fidgeting, no weak exits. Leave them wanting more, not wondering if it’s over!

Final Notes: Saying Thank You is a Vital Life Skill

As far as life goes, saying thank you properly is essential. Even if you are giving a paid lecture or presentation, thank you notes give your audience a sense of importance for participating in your work process. 

An asset every public speaker has after overcoming the fear of Public Speaking <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Public speaking refers to any live presentation or speech. It can cover a variety of topics on various fields and careers (you can find out more about public speaking careers here: https://orai.com/blog/public-speaking-careers/.  Public speaking can inform, entertain, or educate an audience and sometimes has visual aids.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><br /><!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Public speaking is done live, so the speakers need to consider certain factors to deliver a successful speech. No matter how good the speech is, if the audience doesn't connect with the speaker, then it may fall flat. Therefore, speakers have to use a lot more nonverbal communication techniques to deliver their message. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --><br /><!-- wp:heading --> <h2>Tips for public speaking</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --><br /><!-- wp:list --> <ul> <li>Have a sense of humor.</li> <li>Tell personal stories that relate to the speech you're giving.</li> <li>Dress appropriately for the event. Formal and business casual outfits work best.</li> <li>Project a confident and expressive voice.</li> <li>Always try to use simple language that everyone can understand.</li> <li>Stick to the time given to you.</li> <li>Maintain eye contact with members of your audience and try to connect with them.</li> </ul> <!-- /wp:list --> " href="https://orai.com/glossary/public-speaking/" data-gt-translate-attributes="[{"attribute":"data-cmtooltip", "format":"html"}]" tabindex="0" role="link">public speaking is their ability to express gratitude to their audience for the time they spent listening.

I hope you remember to say thank you creatively!

You might also like

How many words is a 5-minute speech, good attention getters for speeches with 10+ examples, quick links.

• Presentation Topics

Useful Links

• Start free trial
• The art of public speaking
• improve public speaking
• mastering public speaking
• public speaking coach
• professional speaking
• public speaking classes - Courses
• public speaking anxiety
• © Orai 2023

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

Appreciation Speech

Appreciation speech generator.

In most events, there is always a speaker who delivers a message to the audience for a particular purpose. Such purpose may differ depending on the event the speech is delivered to. For example, a valedictorian speech  is delivered during a graduation ceremony by the class valedictorian who basically talks about the experiences and learning he/she or the class has undergone in school.

• Speech Templates and Examples
• How Do You Write a Speech?

The word speech can be used to mean either the ability to express ideas through speaking, or the act of delivering a message during an event, as mentioned above. In this article, speech is used to mean the latter.

Teacher Appreciation

Employee Speech

What Is an Appreciation Speech?

An appreciation speech, also known as thank you speech, is a speech which is usually prepared and given in order to express the gratitude of the speaker (usually on behalf of a group of people) to a certain individual or organization. In giving an appreciation speech outline , the speaker include the reason for giving thanks to the person or persons being thanked.

Although the reasons may differ depending on the occasion or the deed you are thankful of, the main point of an appreciation speech is to inform your audience that you appreciate such effort.

Volunteer Appreciation

Pastor Appreciation Speech

Graduation Appreciation

Size: 81 KB

Scholarship Appreciation Dinner Speech

Size: 70 KB

Donor Appreciation Event

Importance of an Appreciation Speech

An appreciation speech is primarily given to acknowledge the kind deed of an individual or a group of individuals in front of an audience. Basically, you are not just simply thanking them, but also letting everyone know how you appreciate the deed.

An appreciation speech in pdf , can be given even just for the simplest reasons.

For example, you might thank everyone (your audience) for coming to the event you are hosting. Aside from expressing thank you speech , an appreciation speech also informs the people being acknowledged that their effort is being well appreciated by the speaker and the party he/she is representing.

Student Appreciation Speech

Sample Appreciation

Mayors Appreciation Luncheon

Size: 191 KB

Foster Parent Appreciation Speech

Size: 143 KB

How to Prepare and Deliver an Appreciation Speech

In preparing your appreciation speech, here are a few things you need to focus on.

• The individual or individuals you are thanking.
• The reason for thanking them.
• Why you appreciate the deed, and what it meant to you.
• A powerful conclude a speech  phrase (can be an inspiring message or a call to action).

In delivering your appreciation speech, you’ll need to keep the following things in mind.

1. Rehearse.

Take time to practice your delivery, diction, and pronunciation of words. This will also help you memorize your speech quickly. You may also see inspirational speech examples .

2. Do not bring a copy on stage.

Memorize, so you won’t be needing a copy on stage.

3. Minimize filler words.

A short pause would be better.

4. Be spontaneous.

In case you forget the next line, be quick to improvise something related instead, and don’t prolong the dead air.

5. Work on a natural tone.

Speaking in front of a crowd is nerve wracking. Still, speak as if you’re not nervous. And don’t make it too obvious that you’re memorizing. You may also like acceptance speech examples .

6. Make eye contact.

It’s the best way to reach your the audience.

This will keep you relaxed before and during start a speech .

8. Be confident.

And even if you’re not, look confident.

After all, you’re probably speaking to colleagues or close friends or relatives, so relax and enjoy. You may also check out welcome speech examples & samples .

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write an Appreciation Speech for a retiring teacher.

Create an Appreciation Speech for volunteers after a community cleanup.

Use These Employee Appreciation Speech Examples In 2024 To Show Your Team You Care

The simple act of saying “thank you” does wonders.

Yet sometimes, those two words alone don’t seem to suffice. Sometimes your team made such a difference, and your gratitude is so profound, that a pat on the back just isn’t enough.

Because appreciation is more than saying thank you . It’s about demonstrating that your team is truly seen and heard by thanking them for specific actions. It’s about showing that you understand and empathize with the struggles your team faces every day. And it’s about purpose too. True appreciation connects your team’s efforts back to a grand vision and mission.

According to Investopedia ,

“Appreciation is an increase in the value of an asset over time.”

So it’s time to diversify your portfolio of reliable tips and go-to words of wisdom for expressing your undying appreciation. After all, you diversify your portfolio of investments, and really, workplace appreciation is an investment.

Let’s set aside the standard definition of appreciation for a second and take a look at the financial definition.

In the workplace, appreciation increases the value of your most important assets—your employees—over time.

Here are some ways appreciation enhances employee relations:

• Appreciation makes employees stick around. In fact, statistics suggest that a lack of appreciation is the main driver of employee turnover , which costs companies an average of about $15,000 per worker .
• Appreciation reinforces employees’ understanding of their roles and expectations, which drives engagement and performance.
• Appreciation builds a strong company culture that is magnetic to both current and prospective employees.
• Appreciation might generate positive long-term mental effects for both the giver and the receiver.
• Appreciation motivates employees. One experiment showed that a few simple words of appreciation compelled employees to make more fundraising calls.

We searched through books, movies, songs, and even TED Talks to bring you 141 amazing motivational quotes for employees you’ll be proud to put in a Powerpoint, an intra-office meme or a foam board printing cutout! Find plenty of fantastic workplace quotes to motivate any team.

Some of the most successful entrepreneurs in American business built companies, and lasting legacies, by developing employees through the simple act of appreciation.

Charles Schwab, founder of the Charles Schwab Corporation, once said:

“I consider my ability to arouse enthusiasm among my people the greatest asset I possess, and the way to develop the best that is in a person is by appreciation and encouragement. There is nothing else that so kills the ambitions of a person as criticism from superiors. I never criticize anyone. I believe in giving a person incentive to work. So I am anxious to praise but loath to find fault. If I like anything, I am hearty in my appreciation and lavish in my praise.”

Boost your ability to arouse enthusiasm by learning how to deliver employee appreciation speeches that make an impact. Once you master the habits and rules below, sincere appreciation will flow from you like sweet poetry. Your employees are going to love it!

Page Contents (Click To Jump)

The Employee Appreciation Speech Checklist

Planning employee appreciation speeches can be fast and easy when you follow a go-to “recipe” that works every time. From a simple thank you to a heart felt work anniversary speech, it all has a template.

Maritz®studies human behavior and highlights relevant findings that could impact the workplace. They developed the Maritz Recognition Model to help everyone deliver the best appreciation possible. The model asserts that effective reward and recognition speech examples touch on three critical elements: the behavior, the effect, and the thank you.

Here’s a summary of the model, distilled into a checklist for your employee appreciation speeches:

• Talk about the behavior(s). While most employee appreciation speeches revolve around the vague acknowledgment of “hard word and dedication,” it’s best to call out specific actions and accomplishments so employees will know what they did well, feel proud, and get inspired to repeat the action. Relay an anecdote about one specific behavior to hook your audience and then expand the speech to cover everyone. You can even include appreciation stories from other managers or employees in your speech.
•  Talk about the effect(s) of the behavior(s). What positive effect did the employee behaviors have on your company’s mission? If you don’t have any statistics to share, simply discuss how you expect the behaviors to advance your mission.
•  Deliver the “thank you” with heartfelt emotion. Infusing speeches with emotion will help employees feel your appreciation in addition to hearing it. To pinpoint the emotional core of your speech, set the “speech” part aside and casually consider why you’re grateful for your employees. Write down everything that comes to mind. Which aspects made you tear up? Which gave you goosebumps? Follow those points to find the particular emotional way you want to deliver your “thank you” to the team .

Tips and tricks:

• Keep a gratitude journal (online or offline) . Record moments of workplace gratitude and employee acts you appreciate. This practice will make you feel good, and it also provides plenty of fodder for appreciation speeches or employee appreciation day .
• Make mini-speeches a habit. Try to deliver words of recognition to employees every single day. As you perfect small-scale appreciation speeches, the longer ones will also feel more natural.
• When speaking, pause frequently to let your words sink in.
• Making eye contact
• Controlling jittery gestures
• Acting out verbs
• Matching facial expression to words
• Moving around the stage
• Varied pace. Don’t drone on at the same pace. Speak quickly and then switch to speaking slowly.
• Varied volume. Raise your voice on key points and closings.

Employee Appreciation Speech Scripts

Build on these customizable scripts to deliver employee appreciation speeches and casual meeting shout-outs every chance you get. Each script follows the 3-step approach we discussed above. Once you get the hang of appreciation speech basics, you’ll be able to pull inspirational monologues from your hat at a moment’s notice.

Swipe the examples below, but remember to infuse each speech with your own unique perspectives, personality, and heartfelt emotions.

All-Purpose Appreciation Speech  

Greet your audience..

I feel so lucky to work with you all. In fact, [insert playful aside: e.g. My wife doesn’t understand how I don’t hate Mondays. It drives her nuts!]

Thanks to you, I feel lucky to come to work every day.

Talk about behaviors you appreciate.

Everyone here is [insert applicable team soft skills: e.g. positive, inspiring, creative, and intelligent ]. I’m constantly amazed by the incredible work you do.

Let’s just look at the past few months, for example. [Insert bullet points of specific accomplishments from every department].

• Finance launched an amazing new online payroll system.
• Business Development doubled their sales last quarter.
• Human Resources trained us all in emotional intelligence.

Talk about the effects of the behaviors.

These accomplishment aren’t just nice bullet points for my next presentation. Each department’s efforts has deep and lasting impacts on our business. [Explain the effects of each highlighted accomplishment].

• The new payroll system is going to save us at least $20,000 on staff hours and paper.
• Revenue from those doubled sales will go into our core investments, including a new training program .
• And I can already see the effects of that emotional intelligence training each time I’m in a meeting and a potential argument is resolved before it starts.

Say thank you.

I can’t thank you enough for everything you do for this company and for me. Knowing I have your support and dedication makes me a better, happier person both at work and at home.

Formal Appreciation Speech

Greet your audience by explaining why you were excited to come to work today..

I was not thrilled when my alarm went off this morning, but I must admit, I’m luckier than most people. As I got out of bed and thought about doing [insert daily workplace activities that inspire you], I felt excitement instead of dread. It’s an incredible feeling, looking forward to work every day, and for that, I have each and every one of you to thank.

Just last week, [insert specific anecdote: e.g. I remembered, ironically, that I forgot to create a real-time engagement plan for TECHLO’s giant conference next month. As you all know, they’re one of our biggest clients, so needless to say, I was panicking. Then I sit down for my one-on-one with MEGAN, worried that I didn’t even have time for our meeting, and what does she say? She wants to remind me that we committed to submit a promotional plan by the end of the week. She had some ideas for the TECHLO conference, so she went ahead and created a draft.]

[Insert the outcome of the anecdote: e.g. Her initiative dazzled me, and it saved my life! We met our deadline and also blew TECHLO away. In fact, they asked us to plan a similar initiative for their upcoming mid-year conference.]

[Insert a short thank-you paragraph tying everything together: e.g. And you know what, it was hard for me to pick just one example to discuss tonight. You all do so many things that blow me away every day. Thank you for everything. Thank you for making each day of work something we can all be proud of.]

Tip! Encourage your entire team to join in on the appreciation with CareCards ! This digital appreciation board allows you to recognize your colleague with a dedicated space full of personalized well wishes, thank-yous, and anything else you want to shout them out with! To explore Caroo’s CareCard program, take this 60-second tour !

Visionary Appreciation Speech

Greet your audience by explaining why you do what you do..

Here at [company name] we [insert core competency: e.g. build nonprofit websites], but we really [insert the big-picture outcome of your work: e.g. change the world by helping amazing nonprofits live up to their inspiring visions.]

I want to emphasize the “we” here. This company would be nothing without your work.

Talk about behaviors and explain how each works toward your mission.

Have you guys ever thought about that? How what you do [recap the big-picture outcome at your work: e.g. changes the world by helping amazing nonprofits live up to their inspiring visions]?

[Insert specific examples of recent work and highlight the associated outcomes: e.g. Let’s explore in terms of the websites we launched recently. I know every single person here played a role in developing each of these websites, and you should all be proud.]

• The launch of foodangel.org means that at least 500 homeless people in the greater metro area will eat dinner tonight.
• The launch of happyup.org means thousands of depressed teenagers will get mental health counseling.

Now if that’s not [recap the big-picture outcome], then I don’t know what is.

Thank you for joining me on the mission to [big-picture outcome]. With any other team, all we’re trying to do might just not be possible, but you all make me realize we can do anything together.

Casual Appreciation Speech

Greet your audience by discussing what upcoming work-related items you are most excited about..

I’ve been thinking nonstop about [insert upcoming initiative: e.g. our upcoming gallery opening]. This [initiative] is the direct result of your amazing work. To me, this [initiative] represents [insert what the initiative means to you: e.g. our true debut into the budding arts culture of our city.]

You’ve all been pulling out all the stops, [insert specific example: e.g. staying late, making 1,000 phone calls a day, and ironing out all the details.]

Because of your hard work, I’m absolutely confident the [initiative] will [insert key performance indicator: e.g. sell out on opening night.]  

Thank you, not just for making this [initiative] happen, but also for making the journey such a positive and rewarding experience.

Funny Appreciation Speech

Greet your audience by telling an inside joke..

I want to thank you all for the good times, especially [insert inside joke: e.g. that time we put a glitter bomb in Jeff’s office.]

Talk about behaviors you appreciate and highlight comical outcomes.

But seriously, you guys keep me sane. For example [insert comical examples: e.g.]:

• The Operations team handled the merger so beautifully, I only had to pull out half my hair.
• The Marketing team landed a new client, and now we can pay you all for another year.
• And thanks to the Web team’s redesign of our website, I actually know what we do here.

Talk about the real effects of the behaviors.

But for real for real, all your work this year has put us on a new level. [Insert outcomes: e.g. We have an amazing roster of clients, a growing staff, and an incredible strategic plan that makes me feel unqualified to work here.] You guys made all this happen.

So thank you. This is when I would usually tell a joke to deflect my emotions, but for once in my life, I actually don’t want to hide. I want you all to know how much I appreciate all you do.

That was hard; I’m going to sit down now.

Appreciation Speech for Employee of the Month

Greet your audience by giving a shout-out to the employee of the month..

Shout out to [insert employee’s name] for being such a reliable member of our team. Your work ethics and outstanding performance are an inspiration to all of us! Keep up the amazing work!

Talk about behaviors you appreciate in them and highlight their best traits.

It’s not only essential to work diligently, but it is likewise crucial to be kind while you’re at it–and you’ve done both wonderfully!

Talk about the effects of their behaviors on the success of the company.

You bring optimism, happiness, and an all-around positive attitude to this team.

Thank you bring you!

Appreciation Speech for Good Work

Greet your audience with a round of applause to thank them for their hard work..

You always put in 100% and we see it. Proud of you, team!

Talk about behaviors you appreciate in your team members.

You work diligently, you foster a positive team environment, and you achieve or exceed your goals. 

Talk about the effects of your team’s behaviors on the company.

Your dedication to the team is commendable, as is your readiness to do whatever needs to be done for the company – even if it’s not technically part of your job description. Thank you.

No matter the situation, you always rise to the occasion! Thank you for your unwavering dedication; it doesn’t go unnoticed.

People Also Ask These Questions:

Q: how can i show that i appreciate my employees .

• A: An appreciation speech is a great first step to showing your employees that you care. The SnackNation team also recommends pairing your words of appreciation with a thoughtful act or activity for employees to enjoy. We’ve researched, interviewed, and tested all the best peer-to-peer recognition platforms, office-wide games, celebration events, and personalized rewards to bring you the   top 39 recognition and appreciation ideas to start building a culture of acknowledgment in your office.

Q: What should I do after giving an appreciation speech? 

• A: In order to drive home the point of your employee appreciation speech, it can be effective to reward your employees for their excellent work. Rewards are a powerful tool used for employee engagement and appreciation. Recognizing your employees effectively is crucial for retaining top talent and keeping employees happy. To make your search easier, we sought out the top 121 creative ways that companies can reward their employees that you can easily implement at your office.

Q: Why should I give an employee appreciation speech? 

• A: Appreciation and employee motivation are intimately linked together. A simple gesture of an employee appreciation gift can have a positive effect on your company culture. When an employee is motivated to work they are more productive. For more ideas to motivate your team, we’ve interviewed leading employee recognition and engagement experts to curate a list of the 22 best tips here ! 

We hope adapting these tips and scripts will help you articulate the appreciation we know you already feel!

Free Download:   Download this entire list as a PDF . Easily save it on your computer for quick reference or print it for future team gatherings.

Employee Recognition & Appreciation Resources:

39 impactful employee appreciation & recognition ideas [updated], 12 effective tools & strategies to improve teamwork in the workplace, your employee referral program guide: the benefits, how-tos, incentives & tools, 21 unforgettable work anniversary ideas [updated], 15 ideas to revolutionize your employee of the month program, 16 awesome employee perks your team will love, 71 employee recognition quotes every manager should know, how to retain employees: 18 practical takeaways from 7 case studies, boost your employee recognition skills and words (templates included).

Interested in a content partnership? Let’s chat!

Get Started

About SnackNation

SnackNation is a healthy office snack delivery service that makes healthy snacking fun, life more productive, and workplaces awesome. We provide a monthly, curated selection of healthy snacks from the hottest, most innovative natural food brands in the industry, giving our members a hassle-free experience and delivering joy to their offices.

Popular Posts

Want to become a better professional in just 5 minutes?

You May Also Like

✅ 13 Best Employee Training Plan Templates In 2024

🚀 12 Best Employee Improvement Plan Templates for 2024

10 Comments

great piece of work love it, great help, thanks.

great tips !!!!

Helpful piece. LAVISH MAYOR

Enjoy reading this. Nice work

Thank you. Very helpful tips.

This is the most helpful and practical article I have found for writing a Colleague Appreciation speech. The Funny Appreciation Speech section was written for me 🙂 Ashley Bell, you’re a rock star!

Very nice speech Well explanation of words And very helpful for work

Hi, Your notes are awesome. Thank you for the share.

Your article is very helpful. Thankyou :).

Your stuff is really awesome. Thankyou for sharing such nice information

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

SnackNation About Careers Blog Tech Blog Contact Us Privacy Policy Online Accessibility Statement

Pricing How It Works Member Reviews Take the Quiz Guides and Resources FAQ Terms and Conditions Website Accessibility Policy

Exciting Employee Engagement Ideas Employee Wellness Program Ideas Thoughtful Employee Appreciation Ideas Best ATS Software Fun Office Games & Activities for Employees Best Employee Engagement Software Platforms For High Performing Teams [HR Approved] Insanely Fun Team Building Activities for Work

Fun Virtual Team Building Activities The Best Employee Recognition Software Platforms Seriously Awesome Gifts For Coworkers Company Swag Ideas Employees Really Want Unique Gifts For Employees Corporate Gift Ideas Your Clients and Customers Will Love

© 2024 SnackNation. Handcrafted in Los Angeles

• Recipient Choice Gifts
• Free Work Personality Assessment
• Happy Hour & Lunches
• Group eCards
• Office Snacks
• Employee Recognition Software
• Join Our Newsletter
• Partner With Us
• SnackNation Blog
• Employee Template Directory
• Gifts For Remote Employees
• ATS Software Guide
• Best Swag Vendors
• Top HR Tools
• Ways To Reward Employees
• Employee Appreciation Gift Guide
• More Networks

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

• Bridal Shower
• Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
• Engagement Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Wedding Checklists
• Wedding Hairstyle Ideas
• Wedding Vows Readings
• Wedding Music

In This Article

• Speech Examples
• Speech Tips
• Speech Outline
• What Not To Say

Brides Often Ask

• Wedding Party & Reception

A Heartfelt Thank You Speech for the Unforgettable Celebration

Every beautiful event must come to an end, and in the case of weddings, a wedding thank you speech is important. Guests came all the way to celebrate with you, your parents made sacrifices, and your spouse joined you. Appreciation goes a long way to making everyone happy.

ADVERTISEMENT

However, there are rules and outlines for binding thank you speeches, which we have discussed in this post. So if you’re looking for guidance and samples that work, read this post.

Quick Navigation

Thank You Speech Wedding Inspiring Examples

Follow the thank you wedding speech examples below to show your appreciation for everyone. These speeches should be directed at the guests who spared their time, parents who were there all the way, and spouse who stays forever. The speech’s ideas are heartfelt, powerful, and have some humor to lighten the serene atmosphere.

These examples can also be adopted by couples with a little tweak. Hence, you can use these ideas as inspiration to write yours or adopt and personalize them.

Our closest family and friends, we would like to greet you on our special day and thank you for being here. Each of you has played a pivotal role in our love story, so your presence makes this day even more special. We have spent the last 10 months planning our wedding and we couldn’t have done it without your help. This is very valuable for us! Despite some moments that today didn’t go 100% as we planned, for example, we forgot our vows at home and tried to remember them on the go (which probably made the moment even more emotional for us), we are glad that everything turned out so great! Raise your glass and we’ll raise a toast to each and every one of you here today.

I want to thank everyone for being with us today. Many of you have come a long way to get involved and we thank you for your time and effort. As we embark on this next chapter of our lives, we are so grateful that we have your love and support. We would like to thanks our parents for their continued support and encouragement. Each of you did everything in your power to ensure that our wedding day went exactly as we imagined. To our guests: our day would not be complete without you. Thank you very much for coming. Cheers!

My new husband and I would like to welcome all of you and thank you for sharing this special occasion with us. We especially want to thank our parents. To my mom and dad, who not only helped plan my dream wedding, but also made sure I felt nothing but joy and love growing up. Our dear guests! This day wouldn’t be so enjoyable if you weren’t here to celebrate with us. My dear husband, you made me the happiest woman in the world and I am very grateful to you for this. You helped make all my dreams come true, including this wedding – after all, I started planning it when I was only 8. And now I understand that everything turned out exactly the way I imagined! So many wonderful people gathered at our wedding – thank you all for being with us today!

Today my family has grown larger and not only my new husband entered it, but also his parents and siblings. I am so happy that you are now part of my family! Thank you for everything! Mother and father! You supported me all my life and showed by your example what a real family should be! You have no idea how much I love you and how grateful I am for everything! Thanks to you, today I feel exactly as I always dreamed of! Thank you for making this day the way I wanted it to be! My dear husband, I promise to do everything in my power to make our world a happy one–because I know you will, too! You are the kindest and most powerful person I have ever known! I also want to say thank you to all our guests who are here today to share this wonderful day with us – I know many of you come from other countries and have come a very long way – this is incredibly valuable and means a lot to both of us! I propose to raise a glass to all of you, to all of my beloved people. You make me happy and this day is so fantastic thanks to you!

Thank You Speech For Wedding: Tips And Recommendations

jennyyoonyc via Instagram

Be Emotional

Add some humor.

Lighten up the atmosphere with some humor so that the guests would laugh a bit. You can incorporate a very short story of not more than one minute. A punchy one-liner with enough humor to liven the audience is also perfect. Make sure your story is relevant to the wedding day and your one-liner is easy to understand without explanation. Also, avoid dark humor or vulgar words.

Prepare In Advance

We always advise that you write your speech in advance, memorize, edit and keep it safe. And if possible, say your speech without a paper but keep it organized. However, you must also incorporate some elements of the wedding so that the speech becomes personalized and relevant in real-time. Mention names, situations, times, and elements specific to your wedding during your speech.

Be Relaxed And Calm

It can be a couple’s speech.

This is a bride speech, but of course, you call your spouse to the stage in the middle of your speech and the both of you can continue. And even if he doesn’t come up to join you, use the word “we” as you speak to represent both of you. The unison between both of you is what the guests should see as you start your journey forever.

Wedding Thank You Speech Outline

lorenzoaccardi.photography via Instagram

Welcome Guests

To write the perfect wedding thank you speech sample, you must follow an outline that starts with welcoming the guests. Remind them that you appreciate the sacrifice of their presence at your event today. Don’t mention any names as all guests are equally important. Appreciate them for their good wishes, the gifts, and everything they’ve done to make the day successful.

Describe Your Feelings

Say some words about specific people.

Don’t fail to mention specific people who have greatly impacted your life and the day. If you have a great relationship with your parents, talk about their contribution. Remind them that your spouse is the center of your day. Talk about his parents too and that friend who went above and beyond to make things happen. Appreciate them in your speech and they’ll feel seen and important.

Say Some Words Of Gratitude To All The Guests

Finish your speech by telling them where to get all the food and booze if it’s a buffet. Or you can tell them to relax and enjoy themselves as the refreshments go round. Make announcements inviting them to the after-party if it’s open to all. Also, wish them journey mercies back to their hotels and homes. Then sign off with a toast and your new name to make everyone smile.

What Not To Say In Your Speech At Wedding

chelseawhitephotog via Instagram

Don’t Add Some Bad Memories

For your wedding reception thank you speech, you must sieve and censor your words. Avoid including anything that brings up bad memories in your speech, even if it’s said in good faith. Desist from telling guests how your parents hated your spouse at first, or how you stuck by your spouse through his infidelity until he chose you. The guests really don’t want to know about your internal problems.

Do Not Cry Too Much

The truth is that your wedding event isn’t a funeral and you could get the guests worried by crying too much. So no matter how emotional you are, be in control. Let the excitement you feel be contagious and let the guests see your joy radiating. A few tears here and there, and that’s enough.

Do Not Joke Too Much

Another thing to note is that your wedding isn’t a circus or comedy show. So while it’s okay to add some humor and fun to your speech, don’t go overboard. It’s easy to lose the essence of your speech by making lots of jokes, especially those in bad taste. Moderation is key and a joke is one too many. Keep it as subtle as possible.

Do Not Make It Too Long And Boring

Your guests came to the party, to have fun, mix up, celebrate with you and eat to their hearts fill. So don’t over-stretch the timing of your speech, making it long and boring. The guests would lose interest and you’d be there rambling. Hit your most important points within the first one minute and wrap them up as quickly as possible.

What do you say in a thank you speech for a wedding?

Express gratitude for guests’ presence and contributions. Acknowledge their role in making the day special. Mention specific ways they’ve added joy. End with heartfelt thanks for sharing in the celebration.

What do you say in a wedding thank you?

Begin with appreciation for attendance and well-wishes. Express gratitude for gifts, specifying the thoughtful gestures. Convey excitement about shared memories and the start of a new chapter together.

How do you thank everyone at a wedding?

Circulate and personally thank guests for being part of the celebration. Acknowledge their efforts and offer genuine gratitude. Be attentive, approachable, and make everyone feel appreciated for contributing to the joyous occasion.

Stories You Might Like

150+ Best Country Wedding Songs For Your...

Mini Wine Bottles: Perfect for On-The-Go...

Unique Rustic Wedding Signs To Guide...

How To Plan Dreamy Barn Wedding: Insider...

Wedding Welcome Speech: Tips for...

Funny Wedding Poems For Your Ceremony In...

Wedding Ceremony Script For Each Wedding...

The Best Wedding Movies Of All Time, All...

Trendy Wedding Centerpieces Ideas For...

Breathtaking Church Wedding Decorations...

Wildflower Wedding Bouquets The Best...

10 Wedding Couple Classic And Modern...

25 Free Wedding Planning Checklists

Fill in all required * fields below to receive the checklists bundle.

By submitting this form you agree to receive promotional emails from Wedding Forward about other checklists, wedding planning articles, products, and other wedding related topics. You may unsubscribe at any time. Check out our Privacy Policy for more information.

What Good Is Gratitude When There’s So Much Trouble in the World?

Three simple ways to cultivate gratitude and transform your life..

Posted May 22, 2024 | Reviewed by Monica Vilhauer

• Find counselling near me
• Research shows that in troubled times, appreciating the good in our lives can help us cope.
• Cultivating a "life orientation" of gratitude can increase our health and well-being.
• You can begin cultivating a "life orientation" of gratitude by practicing small acts of gratitude each day.

There’s no doubt about all the bad news in our world—from political polarization, natural disasters, and economic uncertainty to heartbreaking wars and escalating rates of anxiety and depression . U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has warned of an epidemic of loneliness and isolation that threatens our emotional and physical health (2023). And many of us have experienced personal losses in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yet research has found that concentrating on what’s going wrong doesn’t help. We can get trapped in a negative spiral of worry, anxiety, and self-criticism. Psychologists call this rumination , which actually undermines our ability to solve our problems (Lyubomirsky & Nolen-Hoeksema, 1995;Williams, Teasdale, Segal, & Kabat-Zinn, 2007).

What does help is to experience moments of positivity that can reverse downward spirals of negativity to restore our emotional balance (Garland, Fredrickson, Kring, Johnson, Meyer, & Penn, 2010). Research has found that in troubled times, appreciating the good in our lives can expand our awareness, help us cope, and reveal new solutions (Berrios, Totterdell, & Kellett, 2018; Fredrickson, 2009; Hurley & Kwon, 2013).

We can begin acknowledging the goodness in our lives by practicing gratitude . Psychologist Robert Emmons, PhD, has found that grateful people are healthier and happier, more connected to others, more optimistic , and better able to cope with stress and challenges (Emmons, 2007).

Studies have shown that cultivating a “life orientation” toward gratitude can greatly improve our health and wellbeing (Wood, Froh, & Geraghty, 2010). This orientation, which involves feeling gratitude toward other people, experiencing awe , and appreciating life in the present moment, has been associated with a lower risk of anxiety and depression, increased happiness , health, and resilience (Wood et al, 2010).

When high school teacher Kevin Carroll was inspired by a gratitude retreat he attended in 2006, he began a daily gratitude practice and published a blog on gratitude. This led to his books, A Moment’s Pause for Gratitude (2017), A Focus on Gratitude (2024), and his most recent book, Through the Lens of Gratitude ( 2024). Committed to sharing the transformational power of gratitude with others, he writes about his students, family and friends, remarkable coincidences, and small acts of kindness he’s experienced.

By practicing small acts of gratitude each day, you, too, can begin cultivating a “life orientation” of gratitude that can bring you greater health, joy, and well-being, even in troubled times (Wood et al, 2010).

To begin cultivating greater gratitude in your own life, here are three powerful practices:

1. Begin the Day with Gratitude. When you wake up in the morning, you can begin your day with gratitude by thinking of one thing to look forward to, one gift this day offers. This can be anything from appreciating the taste of your morning coffee to beginning a new project, meeting with a friend, or enjoying your favorite hobby.

2. Pause During the Day for Moments of Gratitude. During the day, pause periodically to focus on something you’re grateful for. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of sunlight shining through the trees, the bright blue sky overhead, a greeting from a neighbor, a message from a friend, smiling at a loved one, and more.

3. Practice Gratitude at the End of the Day. Research has found that listing three things you’re grateful for at the end of the day can relieve stress, improve your health, help you overcome adversity, and build greater hope (Emmons & McCullough, 2003; Emmons, 2007). Try this powerful practice yourself by keeping a gratitude journal and writing down three things you’re grateful for at the end of each day.

By choosing small acts like these you can shine the light of gratitude on your life to expand your awareness, increase your well-being, solve problems more effectively, and build greater hope within and around you.

______________________________________________________________

This post is for informational purposes and should not substitute for psychotherapy with a qualified professional.

© 2024 Diane Dreher, All Rights Reserved.

Berrios, R., Totterdell, P., & Kellett, S. (2018). When feeling mixed can be meaningful: The relation between mixed emotions and eudaimonic well-being. Journal of Happiness Studies, 19, 841-861.

Carroll, K. (2024). Through the Lens of Gratitude. Bloomington, IN: Balboa Press. His blog is https://abeaconoflight.life/home/

Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84 (2), 377-389

Emmons, R. A. (2007). Thanks! How Practicing Gratitude Can Make You Happier. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin. Definition on page 4, positive effects of gratitude on pages 11-12, 33, 86.

Fredrickson, B.L. (2009). Positivity: Discover the upward spiral that will change your life. New York, NY: Harmony Books.

Garland, E. L., Fredrickson, B., Kring, A. M., Johnson, D. P., Meyer, P. S., & Penn, D. L. (2010). Upward spirals of positive emotions counter downward spirals of negativity; Insights from the broaden-and-build theory and affective neuroscience on the treatment of emotion dysfunctions and deficits in psychopathology. Clinical Psychology Review, 30, 849-864.

Hurley, D. B., & Kwon, P. (2013). Savoring helps most when you have little: Interaction between savoring the moment and uplifts on positive affect and satisfaction with life. Journal of Happiness Studies, 14, 1261-1271.

Lyubomirsky, S., & Nolen-Hoeksema, S. (1995). Effects of self-focused rumination on negative thinking and interpersonal problem-solving, Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 69 (1), 176-190.

Murthy, V. H. (2023). Our epidemic of loneliness and isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s advisory on the healing effects of social connection and community. https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf

Williams, M., Teasdale, J., Segal, Z., Kabat-Zinn, J. (2007). The mindful way through depression. New York, NY: Guilford Press. Discussion on pages 43-44.

Wood, A. M., Froh, J. J., Geraghty, A. W. A. (2010). Gratitude and well-being: A review and theoretical integration. Clinical Psychology Review, 30, 890-905.

Diane Dreher, Ph.D. , is an author, researcher, and positive psychology coach.

• Find Counselling
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• United Kingdom
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Relationships
• Child Development
• Self Tests NEW
• Therapy Center
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

At any moment, someone’s aggravating behavior or our own bad luck can set us off on an emotional spiral that threatens to derail our entire day. Here’s how we can face our triggers with less reactivity so that we can get on with our lives.

• Emotional Intelligence
• Gaslighting
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

Mobile Menu Overlay

The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

A Proclamation on Prayer for Peace, Memorial Day,   2024

     This Memorial Day, we honor the brave women and men who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation’s freedom.  We recommit to keeping our sacred obligation to their survivors, families, and caregivers.  Together, we vow to honor their memories by carrying on their work to forge a more perfect Union.

     Since our Nation’s founding, members of our Armed Forces have been willing to lay down their lives — not for a person or a place but for an idea unlike any other in human history:  the idea of the United States of America.  We are the only Nation in the world founded on the idea that we are all created equal and deserve to be treated equally throughout our entire lives.  Generations of America’s beloved daughters and sons have dared all, risked all, and given all for this idea.  Today, as they lie in eternal peace, we continue to live by the light of liberty they kept burning bright.

     To all those grieving the loss of a loved one who wore the uniform, including our Gold Star Families, and to all those who have a loved one still missing or unaccounted for:  Our country sees you and mourns with you.  I know how painful this day can be — how it can bring you back to the day you lost a piece of your soul.  It is overwhelming.  No words can ease that grief.  But I hope you find a small measure of solace in knowing that we will never forget the price your loved one paid for our freedom — and we will never stop trying to repay the debt of gratitude we owe you and them.

     That is our vow today — and that is our vow always.  May God bless our fallen heroes.  May God bring comfort to their families.  May God protect our troops.

     In honor and recognition of all of our fallen service members, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 11, 1950, as amended (36 U.S.C. 116), has requested that the President issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe each Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace and designating a period on that day when the people of the United States might unite in prayer and reflection.  The Congress, by Public Law 106-579, has also designated 3:00 p.m. local time on that day as a time for all Americans to observe, in their own way, the National Moment of Remembrance.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Memorial Day, May 27, 2024, as a day of prayer for permanent peace, and I designate the hour beginning in each locality at 11:00 a.m. of that day as a time when people might unite in prayer and reflection.  I urge the press, radio, television, and all other information media to cooperate in this observance.  I further ask all Americans to observe the National Moment of Remembrance beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.

     I request the Governors of the United States and its Commonwealths and Territories, and the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff until noon on this Memorial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control.  I encourage families, friends, and neighbors to post tributes to our fallen service members through the Veterans Legacy Memorial at vlm.cem.va.gov so that we may learn more about the lives and contributions of those buried in National, State, and Tribal veteran cemeteries.  I also request the people of the United States to display the flag at half-staff from their homes for the customary forenoon period.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-eighth.                                    JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Stay Connected

We'll be in touch with the latest information on how President Biden and his administration are working for the American people, as well as ways you can get involved and help our country build back better.

Opt in to send and receive text messages from President Biden.

I'm Honestly In My Feels As New Reports About Inside The NBA Ending Drop After Ernie Johnson's Emotional Emmy Speech

Try not to tear up.

The fate of Inside the NBA , TNT Sports’ long-running basketball-centric talk show, has been heavily discussed as of late. That's because it was recently revealed that a large sum of the broadcast rights to the league were being sold off to Amazon Prime Video, while ABC/ESPN had secured another chunk of them. That left one last third of the proverbial pie, which NBC and TNT were vying now. This situation hasn’t looked too good for Inside and, now, it’s being reported that the show will indeed come to an end after being on the air for decades. That was enough to get me in my feelings, but the fact that this comes after host Ernie Johnson's emotional Emmy speech makes this news hit even harder. 

What Is The Reported Cause Of Inside The NBA’s Demise?

Negotiations for the broadcast rights to the NBA have reportedly persisted for a while now, with the major entertainment entities that are in the mix currently working out the financial details. According to the Sports Business Journal , ABC is looking to take on an “A” package from the league, which would see the company shell out $ 2.8 billion per year (up from $2.6B) to retain its share of the rights. Meanwhile, the Peacock network has proposed a $2.6 billion annual deal (up from $2.5B) as part of a “B” package deal. All the while, Amazon Prime has, in principle, landed an agreement that would have it pay between $1.8 and $2 billion a year for the rights. 

It’s reported that Warner Bros. Discovery, which owns TNT and is reportedly $40 billion in debt, was under the impression that the price tag for the “B” package wouldn’t be as high and refused to pay. That’s apparently why NBC was able to make a play for said deal. Now, it’s coming to the point at which the ball will be in WBD’s court. 

Charles Barkley Went Off With An Absolutely Wild Opinion About Coffee, And I Have Mixed Feelings

When the three networks take their deals to their respective boards to be ratified, the NBA will serve WBD with NBC’s contract and give the brand the opportunity to match that sum in “total value.” It’s unclear whether the company would be able to do that. If it did, it'd be paying a hefty sum. The only other two options would be to give up the pursuit of the broadcast rights or take the league to court and dispute the exact definition of a “match.”

The business jargon aside, it’s looking very likely that WBD will not be able to match the offer and that the rights will be lost. And that will effectively cause Inside the NBA to end following the 2024-2025 season.

Ernie Johnson Spoke About Gratitude During His Emmys Speech

If you’re like me, then this situation is an incredibly tough pill to swallow, considering how excellent Inside the NBA has been since its debut in 1989. The work done by the team of producers and crew members has been great. But, also, one has to shout out the program’s four personalities – Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley , Kenny “The Jet” Smith and Shaquille O’Neal. The idea of seeing them disband is honestly heartbreaking, but what’s enough to make one even more emotional is the speech that Johnson gave after winning his latest Sports Emmy for Outstanding Personality/Studio Host. During the address, he used a recent family trip to illustrate the importance of gratitude: 

We can all be grateful for what we do. I mean, who in this room doesn’t consider what they have a ‘get to’ job? We get to do this. I get to work with Pedro Martinez. I get to work with Kenny and Chuck and Shaq. So I’m grateful for that. I’m grateful I got to sit here and listen to James Brown tonight. I’m grateful for this family at TNT. 35 years I’ve been at this company. I get to go to work with you guys, and I’ll forever be grateful for that.

Ernie Johnson, who will reportedly stay with TNT following the dissolution of Inside the NBA , has always had a way with words. And the sentiments he shared perfectly encapsulate not just his feelings about his job and colleagues, but they’re also a testament to the family dynamic they’ve all formed over the years. Check out Johnson’s entire speech, which also won the award for Outstanding Studio Show – Limited Run at the show the other night: 

CINEMABLEND NEWSLETTER

Your Daily Blend of Entertainment News

The #SportsEmmys Award for Outstanding Personality/Studio Host goes to Ernie Johnson @TurnerSportsEJ (@TNTSportsUS @TBSNetwork). pic.twitter.com/ihfEaoPgRU May 22, 2024

All of this comes on the heels of fans sharing their favorite Inside moments on social media as cancellation rumors loomed. Shaq and Charles Barkley also recently travelled to New York to help pitch ad buyers for the show during TNT Sports’ Upfronts. The former Los Angeles Laker seemed confident that Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav would be able to pull off a deal. However, Barkley (who signed a new contract with the network in 2022) seemed less optimistic than his on-air partner.

On the flip side of all this, NBC is aiming to have content for basketball fans to indulge in should they finalize their deal. Under the agreement, the network would reportedly produce Basketball Night in America , which would air on Sunday nights during the NFL season. It also looks like composer Josh Tesh is revamping the NBA on NBC theme song for future programming. That’s sure to be nostalgic for many, but a number of others may pine for the days of Shaq getting thrown into a Christmas tree or Charles Barkley being pranked with water . We may not have much time left with Inside the NBA , but I suppose what we can do is relish the broadcasts that Ernie Johnson and his co-hosts possibly have left.

Erik Swann is a Senior Content Producer at CinemaBlend. He began working with the publication in 2020 when he was hired as Weekend Editor. Today, he continues to write, edit and handle social media responsibilities over the weekend. On weekdays, he also writes TV and movie-related news and helps out with editing and social media as needed. He graduated from the University of Maryland, where he received a degree in Broadcast Journalism. After shifting into multi-platform journalism, he started working as a freelance writer and editor before joining CB. Covers superheroes, sci-fi, comedy, and almost anything else in film and TV. He eats more pizza than the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

9-1-1 Ended Season 7 On A New Crisis After That Bobby Twist, But Not The One I Expected To Set Up Season 8

Following 9-1-1's Season 7 Finale, When Will 9-1-1: Lone Star Finally Return? Here's What We Know

Up Used To Be My Favorite Pixar Movie, But After Watching It Again, I’m Not So Sure

Most Popular

• 2 Max's IT Prequel Series Is Bringing Back Bill Skarsgård As Pennywise, And My Interest In Welcome To Derry Is Floating Now Too
• 3 How Maroon 5’s PJ Morton Feels Hearing His New Song In Tiana’s Bayou Adventure At Disney World
• 4 As CBS Revisits One Of Elsbeth's Most Fun Episodes, Here's What Carrie Preston Says 'No One Has Really Noticed' About Season 1
• 5 Sony Boss Explains How The Studio Plans On Using AI And Why

• My View My View
• Following Following
• Saved Saved

Trump hush money trial: How will the verdict lift limits on Trump’s speech?

• Medium Text

WHAT DID THE GAG ORDER ENTAIL?

How has trump tested the limits of the order, what happens next.

Sign up here.

Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch, additional reporting by Luc Cohen; Editing by Scott Malone and Howard Goller

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

Sarah N. Lynch is the lead reporter for Reuters covering the U.S. Justice Department out of Washington, D.C. During her time on the beat, she has covered everything from the Mueller report and the use of federal agents to quell protesters in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, to the rampant spread of COVID-19 in prisons and the department's prosecutions following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

World Chevron

The Shangri-La Dialogue summit began on Friday with the U.S. and China defence chiefs holding their first face-to-face meeting in two years and the Philippines' president set to give a speech expected to touch on sensitive South China Sea claims.

Two people were injured when an oil depot in the Krasnodar region caught fire after a Ukraine missile and drone strike early on Friday targeting oil facilities, Russian officials said.

The Israeli military said on Friday that two more of its soldiers were killed in fighting in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip.

US Edition Change

• US election 2024
• US Politics
• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Rugby Union
• Sports Videos
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Lifestyle Videos
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Inspiration
• City Guides
• Sustainable Travel
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Home & Garden
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Electric vehicles
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Keir Starmer aims to end questions about his leadership in first major election campaign speech

Labour leader will launch a presidential-style election campaign to address his critics, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox

Get our free view from westminster email, thanks for signing up to the view from westminster email.

Sir Keir Starmer will use his first major speech of the general election to make Labour ’s campaign personal as he tries to quell concerns expressed about what sort of prime minister he will be.

The Labour leader ’s “presidential” speech comes as the Tories have accused him of threatening to make a £38.5bn black hole in public finances with his spending plans.

This latest attack comes after Sir Keir has suffered months of questions about his leadership style and the number of times he has U-turned on issues.

This included abandoning his 10 left-wing pledges in the leadership election to replace Jeremy Corbyn , ditching his opposition to Brexit and abandoning his £28bn a year green deal.

Sir Keir has also been accused of being “boring” and lacking charisma as he tries to haul his party from near oblivion in 2019 to retaking Downing Street after 14 years in opposition.

In his speech today, Sir Keir will acknowledge that questions have been about his character and leadership. But he plans to answer them with a single pledge to voters: “I will fight for you.”

In a speech in a target seat in the South East, he will say: “I know those people are looking at this election, looking at me personally. So, I make this promise: I will fight for you.

“I took this Labour Party four years ago, and I changed it into the party you see today. I was criticised for some of the changes I’ve made, change is always like that.

“There are always people who say, don’t do that, don’t go so fast. But whenever I face a fork in the road, it always comes back to this: the golden thread: country first, party second.”

He will also defend the six “first steps” he has put on a pledge card which some believe lack ambition and a timetable for delivery.

These include tackling antisocial behaviour, creating 40,000 more NHS appointments a week, recruiting 6,500 extra teachers, creating Great British Energy, launching a new border security command, and delivering economic stability.

He will say: “I am proud of these first steps towards our missions. They are a new path for our country. A plan that will turn the page, deliver stability and change.

“And because we have been so ruthless in making sure these policies are deliverable, fully-funded and ready to go. We also provide the certainty that working people, businesses and communities need.

“A clear direction, not the endless spinning around that successive Conservative governments have subjected our country to.”

Sir Keir comes into the election with a massive poll lead but he will insist that he is not taking any votes for granted.

The Labour leader will warn: “Whatever the polls say, I know there are countless people who haven’t decided how they’ll vote in this election.

“They’re fed up with the failure, chaos and division of the Tories, but they still have questions about us. Has Labour changed enough? Do I trust them with my money, our borders, and our security?

“My answer is yes you can – because I have changed this party. Permanently. This has been my driving mission since day one. I was determined to change Labour so that it could serve the British people.”

The decision to put himself at the centre of the campaign in a presidential style comes after Tories and Labour ran briefing campaigns against Mr Sunak and Sir Keir losing energy already in what will be a gruelling contest.

The Tories denied that Rishi Sunak had gone to ground by Saturday, as the Labour leader appeared to take a rest on Sunday.

A Tory campaign source said: “Yesterday the PM hit the campaign trail two hours before Sir Keir surfaced. Today there is no sign of Starmer whatsoever and we are just four days into the campaign. Campaigns are tough, tiring things and it's understandable that he may be weary. But being prime minister is a 24/7 job which requires stamina.”

Not to be outdone, Labour was swift to hit back with colourful details of what Mr Sunak’s top team has been up to including his currently seat-less party chair Richard Holden.

The Labour spokesperson said: “Keir and the Labour Party are working round the clock, enjoying taking our message of change to the country. We were out speaking with voters across the country within half an hour of the election being called. Meanwhile the PM has been holed up with his aides at his house, the Tory party chair spent yesterday afternoon at a pub in Westminster and the cabinet appear to have completely disappeared.”

Responding to Sir Keir’s speech, Mr Holden claimed that new analysis from Treasury costing shows that Labour has a £38.5bn black hole in its policies – the equivalent of £2,094 in taxes on working families.

He said: “It is bizarre that Sir Keir Starmer has spent the day at home resting ahead of a speech which doesn’t say anything.

“Sir Keir Starmer has been Labour leader for four years but has failed to set out a clear plan to secure Britain's future.

“All he has managed to achieve is to break the 10 promises he made when he ran for the leadership and create a £38.5bn black hole in his spending promises, meaning Labour would have to put up taxes by £2,094 on every hardworking family.

“The choice is clear: stick with the plan that is working and take bold action for a safer, more secure future with Rishi Sunak. Or, go back to square one with Sir Keir Starmer and the same old Labour Party.”

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre