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6 Leadership Speech Examples

Leadership speeches have the power to inspire, motivate, and galvanize people into action.

Whether you’re addressing your team, your organization, or a wider audience, your words as a leader carry weight and have the potential to create real change.

Leadership Speech Examples

In this article, we’ll explore six powerful leadership speech examples of varying lengths, each crafted for different occasions.

You’ll find short speeches perfect for quick team huddles, medium-length speeches ideal for company meetings, and longer-form speeches suitable for conferences and major events.

Let’s jump in and see what makes each of these speeches so impactful.

Short Leadership Speech (300 words)

Good morning, everyone.

In the fast-paced world of business, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose sight of the bigger picture. But I want to take a moment today to remind us all of the incredible power we have as a team.

Every one of you brings unique skills, perspectives, and experiences to the table. When we harness that diversity and work together towards a common goal, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.

I’ve seen firsthand the incredible things this team is capable of when we support each other, challenge each other, and push ourselves to be better. Whether it’s hitting a tough deadline, solving a complex problem, or going above and beyond for a client, you consistently rise to the occasion.

But great teams don’t just happen by accident. They require trust, communication, and a willingness to put the needs of the group above individual interests. They require each person to bring their A-game, every single day.

So as we head into the challenges and opportunities ahead, I want you to keep in mind the power of this team. Keep in mind that you are part of something bigger than yourself. And keep in mind that together, we can face anything that comes our way.

Thank you for your hard work, your dedication, and your unwavering commitment to excellence. Let’s go out there and show the world what we’re made of.

— END OF SPEECH —

Commentary: This short motivational speech is perfect for a team huddle or kick-off meeting. It reminds the audience of their collective strength, acknowledges their hard work, and inspires them to tackle upcoming challenges with unity and determination.

Medium-Length Leadership Speech (500 words)

Good afternoon, everyone.

I want to start by saying thank you. Thank you for being here, thank you for your hard work, and thank you for your commitment to our mission. Every one of you plays a crucial role in our success, and I am incredibly grateful for all that you do.

Today, I want to talk about something that I believe is at the heart of any great organization: purpose. Purpose is what drives us, what motivates us, and what gives meaning to our work. It’s the reason we get out of bed in the morning and the reason we push ourselves to be better.

At [Company Name], our purpose is clear: [insert mission statement]. This is more than just a catchy phrase or a nice sentiment. It’s a promise we make to ourselves, to each other, and to the people we serve. It’s a reminder that what we do matters and that we have the power to make a real difference in the world.

But living up to that purpose isn’t always easy. It requires us to think big, to take risks, and to push ourselves outside of our comfort zones. It requires us to be resilient when faced with setbacks and to learn from our failures as much as our successes.

Most importantly, it requires us to work together as a team. No one person, no matter how talented or dedicated, can achieve our mission alone. We need each other – to challenge us, to support us, and to remind us of why we do what we do.

So as we move forward, I want to challenge every one of you to think about your sense of purpose. What drives you? What impact do you want to have on the world? And how can you use your unique skills and passions to contribute to our collective mission?

Because when we are clear on our purpose when we are united in our resolve, and when we support each other every step of the way…there is nothing we cannot achieve.

Thank you again for all that you do. I am honored to be part of this incredible team, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.

Commentary: This medium-length speech is suitable for a company-wide meeting or event. It focuses on the importance of purpose, both at an organizational and individual level and encourages the audience to reflect on their contributions to the collective mission. The speech acknowledges challenges, emphasizes teamwork, and inspires the audience to achieve great things together.

Long Leadership Speech (700 words)

Good morning, everyone, and welcome to [Event Name]. It’s an honor to be here with all of you today.

As leaders, we often talk about the importance of vision – having a clear picture of where we want to go and what we want to achieve. And while vision is undoubtedly crucial, I believe that another quality is just as important, if not more so: courage.

Courage is what allows us to turn our vision into reality. It’s what gives us the strength to take risks, to make tough decisions, and to persevere when faced with adversity. Without courage, even the most brilliant vision will remain just that – a vision, never to be realized.

Think about the leaders throughout history who have changed the world. Martin Luther King Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela – these were not just visionaries, they were incredibly brave individuals who were willing to stand up for what they believed in, even when faced with tremendous opposition and personal risk.

While most of us may not be leading social movements or political revolutions, the need for courage in leadership is just as relevant in our spheres of influence.

As business leaders, we are faced with difficult decisions every day. Do we take a chance on a new product or market, even if it means risking failure? Do we stand up for our values, even if it means losing a client or facing criticism? Do we have difficult conversations with underperforming employees, even if it makes us uncomfortable?

These are the moments that test our courage as leaders. And it’s in these moments that we have the greatest opportunity to lead by example and to inspire others to be brave as well.

But courage doesn’t always look like grand gestures or bold proclamations. Sometimes, the most courageous thing a leader can do is to admit when they’re wrong, to ask for help when they need it, or to show vulnerability in front of their team.

These acts of courage, however small they may seem, have the power to build trust, foster connection, and create a culture where everyone feels empowered to take risks and learn from their mistakes.

Of course, being a courageous leader is easier said than done. Fear, doubt, and the desire to play it safe can be powerful forces holding us back. But I believe that every one of us has the capacity for courage within us – it’s just a matter of tapping into it.

So how do we cultivate courage in our leadership? Here are a few ideas:

• Clarify your values and let them guide your decisions. When you’re clear on what you stand for, it’s easier to act with integrity even when it’s hard.
• Surround yourself with people who challenge you and push you out of your comfort zone. Courage is often contagious, so seek out brave mentors and colleagues.
• Practice self-compassion. Beating yourself up over failures or missteps will only make you more risk-averse. Instead, treat yourself with kindness and learn from your experiences.
• Take small, incremental steps. You don’t need to revolutionize your entire organization overnight. Focus on being a little braver each day, and those small acts of courage will compound over time.

As I look out at this room full of leaders, I am inspired by the collective courage and potential that exists here. Each of you has the power to make a profound difference – in your organizations, your communities, and the world at large.

So let us all commit, here and now, to leading with courage. To take bold action in service of our visions. To support and inspire each other to be brave. Because it is only through courage that we can truly transform ourselves, our organizations, and our society for the better.

Commentary: This longer leadership speech, suitable for a conference or leadership event, delves into the crucial role of courage in leadership. With historical examples, thought-provoking questions, and practical advice, it inspires the audience to tap into their bravery and lead with integrity. The speech acknowledges the challenges of courageous leadership while offering a compelling call to action.

Long Leadership Speech (800 words)

Ladies and gentlemen, good evening.

It is my privilege to stand before you today as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our organization over the past year. As I reflect on all that we have accomplished together, I am struck not just by the tangible results – the record-breaking sales, the groundbreaking innovations, the impactful initiatives – but by the intangible qualities that have made these successes possible.

Qualities like resilience when faced with unprecedented challenges. Like creativity in finding solutions where others saw only obstacles. Like unity in working towards a common goal, despite our diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

These are the qualities that define us as an organization. They are the secret ingredients in our recipe for success, the driving forces behind our ability to not just weather storms, but to emerge from them stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever.

And make no mistake, this past year has brought its fair share of storms. A global pandemic that upended the way we work and live. The economic uncertainty that tested our financial resilience. Social and political turbulence that challenged our values and our resolve.

When faced with these challenges, it would have been easy to hunker down, to play it safe, to focus solely on survival. But that is not who we are. Instead, we saw opportunity where others saw only crisis. We adapted, we innovated, we grew. We proved that our commitment to excellence, to each other, and the greater good is unshakeable.

I want to take a moment to recognize some of the specific ways this commitment has manifested over the past year:

• Our rapid pivot to remote work, allowed us to continue serving our clients seamlessly while prioritizing the health and safety of our employees.
• Our development of [product/initiative], not only met a critical market need but also advanced our mission of [insert mission].
• Our unwavering support for our communities through [CSR initiatives], even as we navigated our challenges.

These are just a few examples among many. In every department, at every level, and across every geography, I have witnessed countless acts of leadership, ingenuity, and compassion. You have shown that our strength lies not in the absence of adversity, but in our response to it.

But even as we celebrate these triumphs, we know that our work is far from over. The world around us continues to change at a dizzying pace, presenting new challenges and opportunities at every turn. To continue thriving in this environment, we must not just adapt to change, but lead it.

This means continuing to invest in our people, their skills, their well-being, and their growth. It means fostering a culture of continuous learning, where we not only welcome new ideas but actively seek them out. It means being unafraid to question the status quo, to experiment, to fail fast, and to learn faster.

Above all, it means never losing sight of our north star – our purpose, our values, and our commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Because it is this sense of purpose that will guide us through whatever challenges lie ahead, and that will continue to inspire us to be better tomorrow than we are today.

So as we step into a new year, a new chapter, I invite every one of you to recommit to this purpose. To bring your whole selves to the work, your passion, your creativity, your unique perspectives. To support and challenge each other, to push beyond what is comfortable, and to aim not just for success, but for significance.

Together, there is no limit to what we can achieve. Together, we will not just navigate the future, but shape it. Together, we will continue to prove that [Company Name] is not just a business, but a force for good in the world.

Thank you for your dedication, your resilience, and your unwavering commitment to our shared mission. I am honored to lead this incredible organization, and I am excited to see what heights we will reach together in the year ahead.

Here’s to the future, and to creating it together. Cheers!

Commentary: This speech, appropriate for an annual company meeting or celebration, reflects on the challenges and triumphs of the past year while casting an inspiring vision for the future. It highlights specific organizational achievements, acknowledges the contributions of the team, and emphasizes the importance of purpose, adaptability, and continuous learning. The speech strikes a balance between celebration and forward-thinking, leaving the audience energized for the year ahead.

Lengthy Leadership Speech (1000 words)

Friends, colleagues, partners – thank you for being here today. It is an honor to stand before you as we mark this important milestone in our company’s history.

Today, as we cut the ribbon on our new global headquarters, we are not just celebrating a building. We are celebrating a vision – a vision of a company that started small, with just a handful of people and a big idea, and grew into a global force for innovation and progress.

I want to take you back to where it all began. [Number] years ago, in a tiny office not far from here, a group of us sat around a table and dared to dream. We dreamed of creating a company that would not just make a profit, but make a difference. A company that would be a leader not just in our industry, but in our communities. A company that would be known not just for what we do, but for who we are and what we stand for.

Over the years, that dream has faced its share of challenges. There were times when growth seemed impossible, when setbacks felt insurmountable when the easier path would have been to compromise our values or abandon our vision.

But we persevered. We persevered because we believed in our dreams, and more importantly, we believed in each other. We knew that the strength of our company lay not in any one individual, but in the collective power of our team.

And what a team it is. As I look out at all of you today, I see more than just employees or colleagues. I see a family. I see people who have poured their hearts and souls into this company, who have challenged us to be better, who have picked us up when we stumbled, and celebrated with us when we succeeded.

It is because of you that we stand here today. It is because of your hard work, your dedication, and your unwavering commitment to our mission that we have been able to turn that initial dream into a reality.

And what a reality it is. Today, our company spans continents and touches lives in ways we never could have imagined in those early days. Our products and services are helping to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from [example] to [example]. Our brand is synonymous with innovation, quality, and integrity.

But even as we have grown in size and scale, we have never lost sight of what made us who we are. We have never forgotten our roots, our values, our commitment to making a positive impact in all that we do.

This new headquarters is a testament to that commitment. It is not just a beautiful building – though it certainly is that. It is a manifestation of our values, a physical embodiment of who we are and who we aspire to be.

From the sustainable materials used in its construction to the inclusive design that welcomes people of all abilities, this building reflects our dedication to environmental and social responsibility. From the collaborative workspaces that encourage teamwork and innovation to the community spaces that welcome our neighbors and partners, it reflects our belief in the power of connection and collaboration.

From the artwork on the walls that celebrates our diversity to the very layout that puts our customers and our mission at the center of all we do, this building reflects our unwavering focus on the people we serve and the difference we seek to make.

As we look to the future, I know that this building will be more than just a workspace. It will be a hub of innovation, a place where the brightest minds come together to tackle the toughest challenges. It will be a gathering place for our community, a space where we can connect with and learn from those around us. It will be a symbol of our commitment to growth – not just financial growth, but growth in our impact, our influence, and our ability to drive positive change.

But most of all, it will be a reminder. A reminder of how far we have come, and how far we have yet to go. A reminder that our strength lies in our unity, our diversity, and our shared sense of purpose. A reminder that, together, there is no limit to what we can achieve.

So as we cut this ribbon today, let us recommit ourselves to the vision that brought us here. Let us continue to dream big, to push boundaries, to challenge the status quo. Let us continue to put our people, our customers, and our communities at the heart of all we do.

And let us never forget that, while this building may be a milestone, it is not the end of our journey. It is simply the beginning of a new chapter – a chapter that we will write together, with the same passion, resilience, and ingenuity that has brought us to this moment.

Thank you all for being part of this incredible story. I can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds.

Commentary: This speech, fitting for a significant corporate event such as the opening of a new headquarters, interweaves the company’s history, values, and vision with the symbolism of the new building. It acknowledges the challenges the company has faced, celebrates the contributions of the team, and positions the new headquarters as an embodiment of the company’s mission and a launching pad for future impact. The speech is both reflective and forward-looking, using storytelling to create an emotional connection with the audience while reinforcing key corporate messages.

Distinguished guests, dear friends, and esteemed colleagues,

It is my great honor to stand before you today as we celebrate the incredible journey of our organization and look toward the bright future that lies ahead.

When I think about the history of [Organization Name], I am struck by the remarkable vision, unwavering dedication, and sheer audacity of our founders. At a time when [industry/field] was dominated by the status quo, they dared to envision a different way – a way that prioritized innovation, integrity, and impact above all else.

From those humble beginnings, we have grown into an organization that spans [number] countries, employs [number] people, and touches the lives of [number] individuals every single day. We have become a leader in our field, known not just for the quality of our products and services, but for the values we embody and the difference we make in the world.

But our success has not come easily, nor has it come without sacrifice. Along the way, we have faced countless challenges – economic downturns, industry disruptions, and internal growing pains. There have been times when the future seemed uncertain and when the problems we faced seemed insurmountable.

But in those moments, we did what we have always done. We came together. We leaned on the strength of our team, the resilience of our culture, and the clarity of our purpose. We innovated, we adapted, we persevered.

And time and time again, we emerged stronger. We emerged wiser. We emerged more committed than ever to our mission of [mission statement].

That mission has been the guiding light steering our organization through every stage of our growth. It has informed every decision we’ve made, every risk we’ve taken, every opportunity we’ve pursued. It has been the unifying force that has brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and forged them into a team capable of extraordinary things.

And what a team it is. As I look out at all of you today, I am struck by the incredible talent, passion, and humanity in this room. You are the lifeblood of this organization. You are the reason we have been able to achieve so much, and you are the key to unlocking the potential that still lies ahead.

Make no mistake, our work is far from over. The challenges we face as a society – from [issue] to [issue] – are complex, multifaceted, and deeply entrenched. Solving them will require the very best of what we have to offer as individuals and as an organization.

It will require us to be bold in our thinking, nimble in our approach, and steadfast in our commitment. It will require us to leverage the power of technology while never losing sight of the human element at the heart of all we do. It will require us to collaborate across boundaries, to learn from diverse perspectives, to embrace the discomfort of growth and change.

In short, it will require us to embody the very values that have brought us to this moment – innovation, integrity, inclusion, and impact.

These are not just words on a page for us. They are the principles that guide us, the standards to which we hold ourselves accountable, and the foundation upon which we will build the future of this organization and the communities we serve.

As we look to that future, I am filled with a profound sense of hope and possibility. I see an organization that is not just a leader, but a catalyst for change. An organization that sets the standard for what it means to do well by doing good. An organization that attracts the best and brightest minds, and empowers them to bring their whole selves to the work of shaping a better world.

I see an organization that is unafraid to tackle the toughest problems, to have difficult conversations, and to be a force for progress in a world that desperately needs it. An organization that measures its success not just in profits or market share, but in the lives touched, the communities transformed, and the world bettered.

This is the [Organization Name] I see. This is the [Organization Name] we are building together. And this is the [Organization Name] that, with your continued passion, dedication, and leadership, will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible and create a future that surpasses our wildest dreams.

So today, as we celebrate all that we have achieved, let us also recommit ourselves to the work ahead. Let us dare to envision a world where [vision statement], and let us have the courage to make that vision a reality.

Together, there is no limit to what we can accomplish. Together, we will continue to prove that business can be a powerful force for good in the world. Together, we will create a legacy that will endure long after we are gone.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Thank you for your hard work, your heart, and your unwavering commitment to our shared purpose.

Here’s to the future – and to creating it together.

Commentary: This speech, suitable for a major organizational anniversary or milestone, takes the audience on a journey through the organization’s past, present, and future. It celebrates the organization’s growth and impact, acknowledges the challenges overcome, and emphasizes the critical role of the team’s talent and dedication. The speech then pivots to the future, painting an inspiring vision of the organization as a catalyst for change and rallying the audience around the work ahead. Throughout, it reinforces key organizational values and uses inclusive language to create a sense of shared purpose and possibility.

These six leadership speech examples demonstrate the power of words to inspire, motivate, and unite people around a common vision.

Whether you’re delivering a short pep talk to your team or a lengthy keynote to a large audience, the key is to speak from the heart, connect with your listeners, and tap into the values and purpose that drive your organization.

Remember, as a leader, your words can shape thoughts, ignite passion, and galvanize action.

Use them wisely, boldly, and authentically, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming the kind of leader that people are proud to follow.

So the next time you step up to the podium, take a deep breath, draw on the courage within you, and let your leadership voice shine through.

Your audience – and your organization – will be all the better for it.

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5 Tips for Giving Impactful Executive Speeches

You’re getting sleepy, very very sleepy. How many times have you sat in an audience thinking about what to cook for dinner, where to go on vacation, or why the speaker is simply reading their slides. You’ve also sat in an audience eyes wide open, leaning forward, and eager to hear what’s coming next. How do you make sure your public speaking is positively received? Read this blog post for five tips on creating impactful executive speeches.

The ability to give an effective and impactful speech is considered one of the essential skills of an executive. Before each speech, you need to be prepared, polished, and ready to impress your audience. 

However, it’s easier said than done. How do you engage an audience of industry leaders and practitioners who might have heard it all? Each of us wants to leave our audience enlightened and inspired. The big question is how to consistently deliver inspiring speeches. Regardless of how much public speaking you have done and no matter how adept you are at public speaking, there’s always room for improvement. It’s all about finding unique ways to connect with your audience. After all, as Carl Buechner says, “They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

Now that we know how crucial it is for you to give impactful speeches, let’s discuss five tips that will help you to consistently deliver compelling speeches:

Practice beforehand – Never underestimate the importance of practice prior to delivering a speech. No matter how experienced you are at public speaking, practicing allows you to:

• Avoid filler words such as “um,” “so,” “like,” and “you know.” It is better to replace the fillers with silence. 
• Impress your audience through your display of confidence on the subject matter as well speaking in front of an audience.
• Respect the time allotted for your speech so you’re able to convey the salient points of your subject matter while also allowing time for your audience to ask questions.

Know your audience in order to engage –  Understanding the makeup of your audience helps you: 

• Figure out how best to connect with the audience. Getting a sense of your audience ahead of time helps you to prepare engaging stories and examples that ensure you connect and keep the session lively while maintaining the focus of all attendees. 
• Use the room layout to your advantage, permitting you to increase or decrease the effectiveness of being more or less energetic and physical.
• Recognize whether a microphone is necessary or if a more intimate conversation can take place without the use of additional equipment.

Offer a solution to the problem facing your audience –  It’s important to make sure your message hits home using the following tips:

• Get to the point and start discussing the problems your audience faces and how your speech will help reduce their anxiety while simultaneously providing a few novel approaches to solving the problem.
• Don’t talk down to your audience or in any way make them feel like the problem currently being faced is their fault. Doing this represents one of the fastest ways for a speaker to lose the ability to engage.
• Let your audience stress-test your solution by asking questions. Not only will this give you an additional opportunity to provide thought leadership it also helps you better prepare for public speaking’s extemporaneous moments.

Storytelling –  We all know great storytelling when we see it and public speaking at its core is basically compelling storytelling that incorporates the following:

• Avoiding dry and abstract concepts. Instead make certain that your audience is able to visualize your speech while simultaneously allowing the audience to step into the world you’re describing.
• Use your personal perspective. Don’t try and memorize your speech, the audience will quickly lose interest. When you’re able to truly speak to a topic, it allows you to dip in and out of stories in a natural way that pulls your audience in as if it was happening to them.
• Keep the purpose of the storytelling within your speech in mind at all times. There always needs to be a payoff for the audience to maintain their engagement.

Make Them Laugh –  Humor represents a crucial element of any speech:

• It allows you to build bonds with your audience that keeps them engaged in your content.
• If your topic is a serious one, appropriate and well placed humor provides you with an opportunity to inject some lighthearted moments, lifting spirits.
• Whatever points you’re making during your speech will be reinforced when your audience is able to remember the humor you brought to bear in addition to the smile you placed on the faces of your audience.

Whether your public speaking happens in front of a live audience, virtually, or through a combination of platforms, the tips above still ring true. 

It’s important to recognize that giving a speech provides an amazing opportunity to connect with folks you might not otherwise have an opportunity to impact, not only showcasing your subject matter expertise but also your  well-honed professional brand . If public speaking doesn’t come naturally to you, take that much more time to prepare. Like anything else we naturally shy away from, the more time you dedicate to overcoming your fear, the faster that fear will dissipate. Be confident and be ready to dazzle. You got this.

For additional information: How to Make a Memorable Executive Speech 5 Tips for Writing a Powerful Speech

1. How can I make my speech more impactful?

To make your speech more impactful, focus on your audience’s needs, use compelling stories and examples, and maintain a clear and concise message. Engaging visuals and a confident delivery also enhance impact.

2, How do you start an impactful speech?

Start an impactful speech with a strong hook, such as a surprising fact, a powerful quote, or a personal anecdote. This grabs the audience’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of your speech.

3. What are the 5 parts of an effective speech?

The five parts of an effective speech are the introduction, where you capture attention; the body, where you present your main points; transitions, which smoothly connect ideas; the conclusion, where you summarize and reinforce your message; and the call to action, which motivates your audience to act.

4. How do you deliver a powerful speech?

Deliver a powerful speech by practicing thoroughly, using confident body language, and varying your vocal tone to emphasize key points. Engage with your audience through eye contact and respond to their reactions.

5. What is a catchy opening line for a speech?

A catchy opening line for a speech could be, “Imagine a world where every challenge is an opportunity for growth.” This immediately engages the audience and piques their curiosity.

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Preparing for the AGM: How to Build a Compelling CEO Speech in Five Steps

By Erin Reese - Roopco | March 14 2022

Congratulations! You’ve been selected to present a keynote speech on your area of expertise. Now comes the hard part — developing a presentation that will effectively engage and resonate with your audience. Whether you’re presenting to an audience of 25 or 2,500, you’ll want to ensure that your keynote speech hits the mark.

Below are five key ways that you can ensure your keynote speech leaves a lasting impression with your audience, for all the right reasons:

1. Know Your Audience

It’s important to understand the type of event you’ll be attending, as well as the expectations of the audience. For example, if you’re speaking at a scientific forum to an audience of academics, your talk about the latest advancements in biotech drug discovery and development — peppered with highly scientific terminology and theories about complex cellular processes — will likely be well-received and easily comprehended.

On the other hand, that same speech will likely fall flat if presented to a group of biotech investors. Although they may understand the basics of the science, these investors are probably more interested in WHY they should invest in your company —instead of the fine details of research process.

The key takeaway? Make sure you thoroughly understand your audience, including their background and level of experience relating to the topic on which you’ll be presenting. This insight will allow you to tailor your speech accordingly.

2. Content is Key

Once you’ve considered your audience, it’s time to develop your content. Regardless of the topic, there are few important considerations for any presentation. First and foremost, is your content accurate? Anything you present, from statistics to attributed quotes, should be thoroughly fact-checked and appropriately cited to original sources.  

Secondly, is the content of your keynote speech proprietary? Unless your event is private and requires non-disclosure agreements, virtually anything you say can and likely will be shared externally. Additionally, many events will invite and encourage media attendance — meaning, for better or worse, portions of your speech could end up being front-page news.

If you are discussing financial or other sensitive information, it’s probably a good idea to vet your discussion points with a member of your legal or financial team to ensure the data you’re sharing is approved for public consumption.

3. Engage Your Audience

No one wants to be lectured for 45 minutes. When developing your keynote speech, consider ways to meaningfully connect with and engage your audience . If you’ve considered the needs of your audience and built your speech accordingly, you’re already on the right path. That said, there are additional tools you can use to ensure your audience remains actively engaged from the start.

One public speaking tip is to start with a personal story , which can make you more relatable to your audience and encourage them to invest in what you have to say. Whether humorous or humbling, sharing a part of your personal story allows viewers to get to know you on a deeper level and, thus, builds trust.

Conducting real-time audience polling is a great way to ensure your viewers’ full attention. Tools like Poll Everywhere and Turning allow you to build a range of questions into your presentations — from true or false to multiple choice and even short answers. Audience members can then respond using their smartphones, allowing them to share their opinions, feedback and experiences in real time. Ultimately, this leads audience members to become more actively engaged in the presentation.

4. To PowerPoint or Not to PowerPoint

PowerPoint presentations have long been a mainstay of the keynote speech, but are they really the best way to increase audience engagement? According to recent scientific studies on the human brain, using a PowerPoint presentation during your speech can actually decrease comprehension and retention . It turns out that human brains aren’t great at multitasking, which means your audience can either listen to your words or focus on your presentation — but they cannot do both (well) at the same time.

Does this mean you should trash your PowerPoint presentation entirely? Not exactly. Instead of text-heavy slides that require a higher level of focus from your audience, limit your deck to engaging images and high-level text — such as a single figure highlighting a financial goal or a title slide to introduce your next topic. This will allow your audience to quickly read your slide and return their focus back to what you’re saying.

If you’re interested in an alternative to the standard PowerPoint presentation, consider starting with a briefing document — an approach favored by Jeff Bezos, CEO of Amazon . This involves providing attendees with an overview document that contains the relevant ideas and requested decisions, and then allowing time before you speak for attendees to review the document. An added bonus of this approach is that attendees get to keep this helpful handout for future reference.

5. Practice Makes Perfect

The final — and perhaps most important — step is to practice, practice, practice. Take the time to thoroughly familiarize yourself with the content of your keynote speech. If you’re using a PowerPoint, make sure your content matches the slides and try out different transitions until you find the ones that work best.  

Keep in mind that technology is not foolproof. Wireless connections can go down, teleprompters may get stuck, or someone may trip on a cord and unplug your device. If the worst happens, you should know your speech well enough to proceed without technology — or at least with the help of printed notes.

Giving a keynote speech to a large group can be nerve wracking for even the most seasoned speakers. However, if you take the time to familiarize yourself with your presentation and have appropriate back-ups in place, chances are you’ll be more relaxed and prepared when it’s time to take the stage.  

If you follow these five key steps to building a compelling CEO speech for your company’s upcoming annual meeting, you’ll have taken the time to thoroughly research your audience, prepare an engaging speech and practice to perfection. At that point, all that’s left is to take a deep breath, smile and confidently take the stage. You’ve got this!

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Alessandra Malvermi

Co-founder and managing partner, sound public relations.

A public relations, brand management, digital strategies, social media, content marketing and crisis communications expert, Alessandra is strongly passionate about innovation and new trends and has a lively talent for international relations. Besides being Vice President of Global Women in PR for Italy, she has been a jury member of the IMC European Awards and Chair of the PRGN Membership Committee. Among her interests are skiing, trekking, music, arts, books and more.

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How To Give A First Rate Event Speech

by Joan Garry

On the very first day of my nonprofit career, I was already in the top spot. The Executive Director. (I had just left the dark side for-profit sector.)

That very first day, I flew cross-country to Los Angeles. Had never been there before.

And my very first task was to address a cocktail party of about 150 people at a board member’s home.

I had never given a fundraising speech before in my life. But there was no time to ease in.

We had $360 in the bank and 18 staffers to pay.

So I sat on the plane with a few index cards and thought, “What in the world will these 150 people want to hear?”

I created an outline for my speech and prepared the best I could, wishing that somebody… anybody… would clue me in on how to do this. But I had nobody in that moment that could help me.

Nervously, I gave my speech, feeling sure I was going to embarrass myself. Surely the board is going to regret having hired me! What am I doing here?

Have you ever felt like that? Awful feeling.

Somehow I hit it out of the park. This was the moment GLAAD started to dig itself out of its financial hole.

After that success, I made sure to save the outline of my speech. I’ve used this outline for every speech I’ve made ever since. I’ve shared with board and staff members who spoke at events.

Now I share it with you.

THE HEART OF THE MATTER

What does your audience care about? When you’re representing a nonprofit, the answer’s pretty easy. In my case, it was about gay rights.

My daughter once answered a call from a telemarketer. She answered the phone, listened for a short time, and casually asked, “Which one?”

The caller had asked to speak to her mom. Nothing in the telemarketing script for that!

So I told the audience this story. It got quite a laugh.

I talked about the world I wanted for my kids… that it was my need to advocate for them that led me to advocate for gay rights.

I felt that if I could articulate what motivated me to take a risk and invest that I could open the door for them to do the same.

I asked our guests to envision a different kind of world for themselves.

What did they learn? That I cared deeply. That I had kids. That I was warm and funny. That I wanted to change the world. That I felt that changing the culture was how you change the world.

But I had a clear outline.

SEVEN STEPS TO A GREAT EVENT SPEECH

An “event” is anything from a house party to the speech given at an annual gala. It can be given by a CEO, a board chair or by any organizational ambassadors.

Just follow these seven steps and make them your own.

1)   Leave the “thank you” list to someone else. Nothing kills a set of short remarks faster. The main speaker should thank ONLY the host or give a general thank you to the group.

2)   How did YOU get involved with the organization? “Ten years ago, I was asked to volunteer in the kitchen early every Tuesday morning. Our Tuesday morning group became life long friends. That would have been plenty of benefit but today, I’m here as the board chair of this incredible organization.”

3)   Tell a story about what the organization DOES. Avoid the mission statement. The only thing worse is the “thank you” list! The next thing that will sink you is the “kitchen sink” approach to program work. Tell me one story that is emblematic. It should be real, weighty, and have an outcome you are proud of.

4)   Tell folks what ‘we’ are up against. Talk briefly about the challenges and why “we” all need to come together. If this can be a SHORT compelling story, even better.

5)   A personal story. Why does this work matter to you? I often spoke about my kids and the world I wanted for them. Sometimes I told a funny story that made the point.

6)   Simple basic info about the organization. I just need a few pieces of info about its size – staff and budget. If you can be a “David” in the “David and Goliath” story, all the better.

7)   Ask. Be clear, be specific. Suggest that we all need to take action. Maybe it’s “join all of us with a gift of X.” Maybe you need volunteers to go to a lobby day. Make a specific ask. If you are going to entice them about your organization and NOT offer them a specific way to join you, why did you bother to have the event at all?

The best speeches leave you wanting more. If people are standing, you get 5-7 minutes. Sit down dinner, 7-9. Ten or more is simply too long. At a regular speaking pace, figure you’ve got about 750 words.

The best speeches, also, are not made on the fly. But they sound like they might have been.

So practice kid, practice.

Next: How to increase your special events revenue

23 thoughts on “How To Give A First Rate Event Speech”

Great list, especially tip #1. I tell my clients “You never want to give the audience permission not to listen to you” and nothing does that faster than a laundry list of thank yous.

For those of you reading comments who need a great speechwriter, Elaine is the girl for you. http://www.elainebennettink.com . Thanks Elaine for the positive comments. I like that quote too.

Thanks Joan, but it’s actually just http://www.bennettink.com

Thank you! Great tips. I look forward to using them myself and sharing with others.

I call violations of #3 “program soup.” And I’m always astonished when nonprofit leaders violate #7 and don’t make an ask.

John: “program soup” = “laundry list” = BORING, right? As for #7, I share your astonishment. Leaders feel that folks’ attendance or ticket purchase makes the attendees somehow off limits for an ask. The exact opposite is true

It gets worse: I’ve seen nonprofit CEOs and EDs shy away from non (directly) monetary asks, such as “sign up for our newsletter to learn more” or “here’s a list of volunteer opportunities” or “our annual event is June 23, sign up to get an invite.”

Great timing on posting this topic. Our annual Fall Gala takes place in a month and I’ve been hassling with the “speech” that I want to give. Really appreciated.

This is timely as I am a new ED and have our Annual Dinner coming up this fall. But a question about making it personal – how do you draw the line between personal and uncomfortable. In other words, if I tell people my story will it just make them more uncomfortable? should I leave those types of stories up to client testimonials? Sorry I’m having a hard time articulating my concerns here. But I’ve been struggling with figuring out the right balance/timing for this question.

I hope you hit a big home run at the gala! Glad I could be of help.

Not entirely sure what you mean by a story that would make the audience uncomfortable. I do know that a personal story by the speech giver that illustrates why the cause matters so much to you can be very powerful. Shoot me an email with a bit more detail and maybe I can help you think about how to tell the story in a way that reaches people powerfully without discomfort. [email protected]

Joan, what a GREAT article. thank you. I too am a new ED. I have some time before my next speech, but I like this a lot. I will be sure to give you an update when I do. I will be utilizing your guidelines for sure.

Please do let me know how it goes! Glad it was helpful!

Thank you, I love having a blueprint to follow.

Thanks so much Joan! I’m giving a speech in a week and a half!!

Hi Joan, Your timing is perfect! We’ve got our annual fundraiser coming up, and I was just about to start writing some speeches. Would love to share them with you when we are done, and get your feedback. Assume that falls under the “Want to Meet With Joan” umbrella and pricing structure? LMK and thanks!

I hope the template is helpful and that you engage lots of new folks in your work.

I’m really glad!

Would be delighted to work with yon in a one-on-one session. Learn more at http://www.joangarry.com/sessions

I just gave a speech at our annual fundraiser. 175 people at a social hour, sit-down supper, and live auction. The week before, a friend had refused my help paying for a shared restaurant meal, telling me “money is like manure.” I gave her a funny look, and she explained: “Keep it to yourself, and it just sits in a pile and stinks. Spread it around, and it helps things grow.” Brilliant. The event audience was mostly farmers. Perfect. I told the story, and told them what we could plant & grow this year with their help. $16,000 in proceeds from the event, which is 10% of our annual operating budget. I’m already planning next year’s story.

I love this. Now wish me luck.

Thank you Joan! I have been asked to be the speaker at a Fundraiser and it is tomorrow afternoon. I was asked yesterday! I work tonight and tomorrow before the event. I agree because the kids it is for attend the same Taekwondo school as my kids. While at class, their parents and older sister were shopping and were hit by a man driving over 100mph. They were all killed instantly. Now the 10 year old boy and 15 year old sister are left with their 70+ year old Grandma who can barely drive herself with no other help. The tragedy today is horrible but the implications for the future are far greater. The event itself is not well organized and I also have to introduce events that I don’t even know about. Those I can wing but wanted to make a powerful opening statement. The financial help from this will likely not have a long term impact but if I can rally support to help the grandmother with their care and daily affairs, I think we can make a long term impact. Pray for me! If you see this, any thoughts would rock! :o)

I have been asked to receive the honor of “Person of the Year” by a non-profit and my affiliation is as a Race Director for a women’s only race for the organization who benefits from the race. Under the honoree assumption, does anything change with the 7 pointes above with respect to the speech I have been asked to give?

Leave a Comment

Related posts.

The Case of the Very Bad Event Speech

My Book is Finally Done! Now What?

Dear Joan: Can I Ask For Donations at a Ticketed Event?

About Joan Garry

Joan Garry is an internationally recognized champion for the nonprofit sector and a highly sought after executive coach for CEOs of some of the nation’s largest orgs. She is called upon by large organizations to tackle substantial change management / crisis management / leadership transitions requiring a compassionate truth-teller, a hands-on strategy advisor, a communications expert, and a focus on strong internal and external messaging. She is also the founder of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab.

© Joan Garry Consulting 2024

Leadership Speech

Leadership speech generator.

Leadership is a character a lot of us wants yet only a few can master. Being a leader entails great responsibility. Speech writing could be a challenge for some but for a leader, it is more of a necessity. It requires both the mind and the spirit to come up with a powerful speech.

A leadership speech could be likened to a keynote speech because it stirs emotions among the audience. However, a leadership is more of an encouragement message. It should be filled with words of unity, camaraderie, and trust. Let us discuss in great detail what a leadership speech is.

Short Leadership Speech

Size: 66 KB

School Speech

Size: 55 KB

What Is  a Leadership Speech?

A leadership speech is a particular kind of speech that is used to deliver a strong message with the purpose of influencing others and providing inspiration when necessary. It is a composition designed with the objective to motivational speech others, lead them in the right direction, and drive them towards a common goal.

Although most speeches require to use proper language to deliver a message, a leadership speech takes more than that. The language to be used should be easily understood by the audience yet able to convey a strong and powerful effect.

Leadership Conference

Size: 392 KB

School Captain Speech

Size: 543 KB

How to Give a Leadership Speech

In order to give an inspiring leadership speech, you need to have the spirit and heart of a true leader. Here are some tips for you.

1. Be Confident.

Confidence is the first thing you need to practice before delivering a leadership speech in pdf . If you do not sound confident, your audience will see as weak and an inefficient leader.

2. Show Enthusiasm.

If you happen to read some welcome speech examples, you will know that they have a common denominator, i.e., it is filled with energy and emotion. You should be able to convey the right emotion to your audience.

3. Use Body Language.

You cannot just stand in front o everybody and read your lines. You have to use hand gestures and other parts of your body to send your message.

Leadership Elevator

Size: 113 KB

High School Speech

Size: 94 KB

Leadership Motivational

Tips for an Effective Leadership Speech

When you write your speech , make sure to use proper language and style. Here are a few tips for you.

1. Start with a Strong Opening.

This is always an essential key in any speech. You have to start strong. Remember that you have to catch your audience’s attention.

2. Create an Outline.

When presenting speech make sure to prioritize the important ones. In addition to that, organize your thoughts for a clearer message.

3. Develop a Connection.

Always bear in mind that in order for your message to be understood, you need to have a connection with the crowd. You may also see appreciation speech examples & samples.

High School Graduation Speech

Size: 75 KB

Effective Leadership Speech

Size: 10 KB

International Women’s Day Leadership Speech

Size: 70 KB

Leader’s Breakfast Speech

Size: 71 KB

Benefits of a Leadership Speech

Delivering speeches has always been proven an effective way to send out important message. It can change the course of history. Graduation speech examples have always united the spirit of students although the celebration means they are separating their ways.

A leadership speech word in the same way acts as an instrument to ignite emotions and encourage others. People who do not have a voice in the society consider it an opportunity to be heard and acknowledge specially if the leader understands their sentiments. It is through the leader’s speech that the rest of the members’ thoughts are brought out in the open.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Create a leadership speech for a corporate team-building event

2. Help me write a leadership speech for a school leadership program