Could you just say a few words please? Ever been asked that at work, or had to ask it of someone else?
It's for that moment in an office, when there’s a 'leaving do’ - a team member is retiring, going on maternity leave, moving on to another department or a new job somewhere else - and it’s someone senior's job to mark the occasion with a small speech-ette.
But it can fall a bit flat, can’t it? We’ve all witnessed it. The departing person feels unappreciated, the team are embarrassed. And you’ve missed an opportunity to communicate culture and to show how valuable your people actually are.
So let’s get on top of these moments as leaders, make the most of the chance to be visible and ultimately make them more meaningful.
My do's and don’ts for when you or your colleagues ’say a few words.'
Do:
Gather insights
Collect positive feedback and stories about the person from colleagues and clients. Understand what makes them unique and valuable. Think about the skills and personal attributes that make them great at their job.
Reflect company values
In your "few words", list these positive qualities and prioritise those that reflect the behaviours and culture you want to promote in your organisation. For instance, if Angela is known for her mentoring skills, mention how she has helped others develop and how this aligns with your company’s values.
Prepare thoughtfully and use specific examples
Spend time planning your speech. Include a well-crafted example that showcases their dedication and contribution. This might be a "time when" story which demonstrates their exceptional skills or help for others. Perhaps a time when they went above and beyond to help a client, demonstrating commitment and care.
Bit Famous works with businesses and organisations to help them communicate with confidence.
By Penny Haslam
MD and Founder - Bit Famous
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Don't:
Don't wing it
Avoid impromptu speeches. Preparation is key to making your words meaningful. Don’t assume you can just stand up and speak off the cuff effectively.
Don't force humour
If you’re not naturally funny, don’t try to be. This isn't a best man's speech. Keep it sincere and respectful. Ensure any humorous anecdotes are light-hearted and inoffensive.
Don't dwell on embarrassing moments
Avoid making jokes about potentially sensitive or embarrassing moments. For example, don’t remind them of the time they were drunk at the Christmas party unless you’re 100% sure they’ll be comfortable with it.
Don't make it about you
Focus on the person leaving, not yourself. This is their moment. Avoid talking about how their contributions specifically benefited you. For example, don’t say, “I was able to achieve this because of Angela,” but rather focus on her direct contributions and achievements.
An example in practice
Let’s say Jeff is talking about Angela, who is going on maternity leave. Jeff should:
- Ask around. Collect insights from Angela's colleagues and clients.
- Use an example. Highlight Angela’s mentoring skills and her dedication to clients.
- Prepare a real-life story example. Like the time Angela went out of her way to support a team member or a client, demonstrating her values and work ethic.
- Thank her in a heartfelt way for her contribution and achievements.
The impact of getting it right
Using this approach ensures the person feels valued and appreciated, and it showcases your leadership. It’s an opportunity to connect on a human level and leave a positive lasting impression.
So next time you’re asked to "just say a few words," use it as a chance to shine as a visible leader and make someone’s day.