Leaver's Farewell Speech

Last chance to look good - no pressure!

We want to help you write something simple enough to avoid embarrassment.

Preparation is the key to success - so go ahead and read the following tips and example speeches to help you.  Good luck!

Tips

1. Describe what you got out of the workplace.

What did you learn, what opportunities did you have, what did you like best about working there, who did you enjoy working with, who helped you the most?
Mention some special people, or go general with 'the team'.

Even if you are leaving because you are sick of the place, there must be something positive or constructive to say about your time there.
For example, the company has an impressive safety record, or that it was refreshing to work with creative people.
Don’t pretend that you are sad to be leaving if you obviously aren't (but avoid mentioning it), because people won't respect you if you are openly dishonest.
There is always a time and a place to air your grievances – in private with the boss, or an HR exit interview.

Do you have some negative feelings that you dare not express?

2. Describe what you will take away from your experiences there.

The most positive things you will remember about your time there in the workplace.

3. Mention why you are leaving and how you feel.

If your leaving really is due to the fact that you can’t stand working there, describe this in terms of a positive with the next place you are working.
For example, your next job provides more opportunities in your chosen direction, the job is more ‘autonomous’ etc.

If you truly can’t think of anything that is not badmouthing the company, then don’t mention why you are leaving work, just mention what you will be doing in your time off after your last day.
For example, you can’t wait to go fishing on the weekend, or you are looking forward to seeing the new decor at your local recruitment centre!

General descriptions of how you might feel are:

• excited about the future / opportunities
• hopeful about new beginnings
• curious about new directions
• sad to leave behind great people
• missing working there.

Pick whichever is most appropriate for you.

4. Dscribe what you wish for the company and the people left behind.

Your hopes for their future. This may include affirming positive things about them and what you know they can achieve.

5. Wish everyone the best for the future and thank them for the farewell and for your experiences there.

Parting words for a gracious farewell speech.

Are you thinking of leaving little somethings

for people to remember you by?

Click for farewell gift ideas.

Example speech

"Thank you everyone for the opportunity to say goodbye to you.

One of the key things I have taken away from my time here can be expressed in one word: professionalism.  From anyone who had to induct and train me, to the experience of sharing a project with colleagues, to the higher ups and their example, I have definitely learned about professionalism.

I can't say I have loved living here though, and that is the reason for leaving.  It's just not the town for me, I'm a big city person at heart.  However, I do not regret living here because I got a lot of value out of this experience.  I have definitely made the most of being here, and I am proud of what I have learned and achieved.  I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to do what I could here. So I have an enormous amount of respect for everyone here as part of that journey.

I hope that you continue your kindnesses and professionalism for the next new person, because everyone here made living here so worth it for me.

I wish you all the best for the future.  Thank you for this farewell and again, thank you for sharing your knowledge, experience and integrity."

This example is only short, and can be made longer by pointing out specific people you want to thank and the reason they have made a difference to you.  This can be very validating to the people who have turned up to see you.  Or you can also add some other things you have learned there if those things meant a lot to you.

You may also choose to add some advice for any junior colleagues, for example:

"... and a word of advice for the juniors - ask questions, talk to people, don't be afraid to talk about ideas - you are as much as part of this organisation as anyone else, and your energy and fresh eyes are valuable."

For more examples from the leaver, with more personality, check these out below:

Funny work farewell speeches

Heartfelt goodbye speeches - leaving town

Retirement speeches

And there are more words to poach in the farewell letters section of this site!

Farewell Speech from the Leaver Top