Your last day at work is drawing near… have you thought about your retirement speech? The retirement speech from the retiree is a way to mark the momentus occasion. It can vary from a few words, to a longer reflection of one’s career. Either way, a speech can give needed closure to a life milestone.
Take a walk down memory lane and look back over the changes you have seen over your lifetime. Relish in your accomplishments. Leave your colleagues some sage advice.
If you are looking for some retirement speech from a retiree examples, look no further. Let’s dive in and get you started on your very own send off speech.
Table of Contents
- Reflecting on the Journey
- Retirement Speech Outline
- A Retirement Speech for a Job You Hate
- The Art of Delivery
- Short and Formal Retirement Speech from Retiree
- Short and Casual Retirement Speech from Retiree #1
- Short and Casual Retirement Speech from Retiree #2
- Example Retirement Speech From an Employee
- Example Retirement Speech From President of a Company
- EXAMPLE 2: Teacher retirement speech
- Example Military Retirement Speech
- Looking Ahead
Reflecting on the Journey
In 2024, Jason Kelce announced his historic retirement speech from the Philadelphia Eagles football team. Afterwards, he disected his speech with his brother, Travis Kelce on YouTube. This is not your average retirement speech. When most speech coaches advise keeping your speech to five minutes, this far exceeds it.
Jason’s long football career is epic, and has touched many lives, justifying the lengthier format. Adding to the viral spread of his recorded retirement speech was his pure honesty and unapolagetic emotions. If you would like to read a transcript of his speech, it is posted on the Philadelphia Eagle’s website.
Jason said he had no problem writing the speech, he’s been “writing it for 13 years.” What he means is that he took mental notes of the milestones and the people who made a difference in his life. He found it very easy to find the words, because it was “just history.”
I highly encourage you to watch the first few minutes of the video below. It’s unusual to get a peek into someone talking about the thought process of writing a retirement speech; Jason does just that.
As you approach the end of your career, it’s natural to reflect on the journey that brought you here. Your career has been full of ups and downs, but overall, it’s been a rewarding experience. In this section, we’ll take a look at some of the milestones, memories, and connections that have made your career so special.
Retirement Speech Outline
There is no such thing as a cookie cutter retirement speech from a retiree. The length of your retirement speech may vary by profession. For example, one employee may find “a few words” to thank everyone at a small gathering. A leadership position may take the podium and lean into a 20 minute speech.
There are also professions where last day traditions are very established. Take law enforcement, for example. They formally sign off via the radio from their squad car. This final ending can be emotional for them. Many involve surprises from family responding back to them from the police station.
Some retirees can choose to say nothing or just a simple thank you. However, it’s important to say at least la few words, because closure is important in such an important life event.
Retiree Speech Highlights
When writing your retirement speech, here are the highlight you can focus on:
- Career milestones, special accomplishments, promotions, recognitions
- Cherished memories, important events
- What impacted you the most
- Important work friendships, recognizing special mentors, or leadership; people who helped advance your career
- Lessons learned, advice or wisdom to share
What if you don’t have milestones? Sticking it out counts for something! Not everyone retires from pro-sports or corporate jobs that are ripe with measurable career markers. A classroom teacher could have had the same elementary grade for over 20 years (or my reliable plumber collecting throngs of happy customers over the years!).
You do you. Anyone with any length of time will see changes in their work environment. And if not at work, reflect on world changes. In these cases, the focus can be on personal work satisfaction, dedication to the job, or the people (or students) served.
Beginnings and Endings
If you feel a bit lost, start with an outline. You can get feedback from others in what order feels right. Once you start thinking about it, the floodgates are sure to open. Here are some suggestions to break open a retirement speech from a retiree:
- Chronological, first job to your last
- Start with a humorous story (can circle back and tie into to conclude the speech)
- Begin with a broad thank you, maybe thanking the venue and caterer for the great food
- End with a quote or advice to the coworkers you leave behind
- End with a focus on the vision and purpose of the company, urging the company/organization to continue with their mission
According to Jason Kelce, he gives the advice to save the most meaningful people, stories and messages for the end. Considering the wave of positive feedback regarding his public retiree speech, I would say that is excellent advice.
The fire chief below delivers a very traditional retirement speech from a retiree. Take note of retirement parties that you attend and borrow the style that most appeals to you.
Thanking Special People in Your Speech
One of the most valuable aspects of your career has been the connections you’ve made along the way. From colleagues to mentors to friends, these connections have helped you grow both personally and professionally. Some of the most valuable connections you’ve made include:
- Mentors who have provided guidance and support throughout your career.
- Colleagues who have become lifelong friends.
- Industry contacts who have helped you expand your network and advance your career.
- Clients or customers that made it all worth it.
- Family that provided emotional support, cheered you on, and celebrated your successes.
As you move into retirement, you can take comfort in knowing that your career has been a success and that you’ve made a lasting impact on those around you. Or thank your coworkers if they have contributed to your success, their teamwork, and their commitment to the organization.
Thank your family for their unwavering support and love. You can also share a personal anecdote or two to illustrate how their support has helped you throughout your career and express your appreciation.
It’s important that with good planning, no one should be left out of your retirement speech. Of course, you can’t thank everyone individually, but you can try a mass thank you to a department, for example. Sometimes people get nervous and leave the most important person out – their spouse! Make sure to use a cheat sheet so this doesn’t happen.
A Retirement Speech for a Job You Hate
I know plenty of people who don’t like their job. It is unrealistic to expect that all retirees even feel it necessary to delivery a heartfelt retirement speech. All I can say, is that you have to rise above the moment, even if it’s your moment.
Keep your retirement speech from a retiree brief and neutral. I have to chuckle at the video below, “A Teacher’s TRUE Retirement Speech.” You can dream this in your head all you want – (just don’t say it out loud!).
And don’t even begin to think about telling a coworker or boss off – it will never end well or as you imagined. It’s embarrasing to yourself and the good people who are present. Be remembered for keeping it classy and save your breath and energy for your next phase in life.
The Art of Delivery
Retirement speeches are an opportunity to reflect on your career, share your experiences, and offer words of wisdom to your colleagues. However, delivering a memorable and engaging speech can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you deliver a retirement speech that will leave a lasting impression.
Public Speaking Tips
Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can deliver a confident and effective speech. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Practice, practice, practice: Rehearse your speech several times before the big day. This will help you become familiar with the content and ensure that your delivery is smooth and confident.
- Use notes: Even if you have your speech memorized, it’s a good idea to have notes with you in case you get stuck.
- Speak slowly and clearly: Don’t rush through your speech. Speak slowly and clearly so that everyone can hear and understand you.
- Make eye contact: Look at your audience while you speak. This will help you connect with them and keep them engaged.
Using Humor Effectively
Humor can be a great way to engage your audience and make your speech memorable. However, it’s important to use humor effectively. Here are some tips:
- Keep it appropriate: Avoid jokes that could offend or alienate your audience.
- Use self-deprecating humor: Jokes at your own expense can be a great way to show humility and connect with your audience.
- Use humor sparingly: Don’t overdo it with the jokes. A few well-placed jokes can be more effective than a string of one-liners.
Engaging the Audience
Engaging your audience is key to delivering an effective retirement speech. Here are some tips to help you engage your audience:
- Use language that is clear and easy to understand: Avoid jargon or technical terms that your audience may not be familiar with.
- Use anecdotes and stories: Personal stories can be a great way to connect with your audience and illustrate your points.
- Use timing to your advantage: Use pauses and changes in tone to emphasize important points and keep your audience engaged.
By following these tips, you can deliver a retirement speech that is engaging, memorable, and leaves a lasting impression on your colleagues.
Retiree’s Speech Transitions
Your retirement speech from a retiree shouldn’t be long, but you do want it to be memorable. You want to make sure that the speech flows between the parts.
Here are some examples of transitions that can be used in a retirement speech:
- Reflecting on the past: “As I look back on my career, I am reminded of…”
- Expressing gratitude: “I am truly grateful for the support and guidance I have received from…”
- Looking to the future: “Although I am retiring, I am excited for the new adventures that await me…”
- Sharing wisdom: “One lesson I have learned throughout my career is…”
- Acknowledging colleagues: “I have been fortunate to work alongside so many talented individuals, such as…”
- Expressing optimism: “I am confident that the team will continue to thrive and achieve great things…”
- Sharing personal anecdotes: “One of my fondest memories from my time here is…”
- Embracing change: “While change can be daunting, it also presents new opportunities, such as…”
These transitions can help smooth out the rough parts and make your retiree speech look effortless!
Short and Formal Retirement Speech from Retiree
Ladies and gentlemen,
I stand before you today with a heart full of gratitude as I bid farewell to this chapter of my life. I want to thank each and every one of you for your support, camaraderie, and the memories we’ve shared. It has been an honor to work alongside such dedicated colleagues, and I am excited for the new adventures that retirement holds. I look forward to staying in touch and cherish the memories we’ve made together. Thank you all for being a part of my journey.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Short and Casual Retirement Speech from Retiree #1
Hey everyone,
I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude as I retire from this amazing company. It’s been an incredible journey, and I want to thank each and every one of you for the support, laughter, and memories. I’m looking forward to the next chapter and the adventures that retirement will bring. Let’s stay in touch and keep those good times rolling. Thanks for everything!
Cheers, [Your Name]
Short and Casual Retirement Speech from Retiree #2
To everyone,
I just wanted to say a big thank you as I retire from this amazing company. It’s been a blast working with all of you, and I’ll definitely miss the daily banter and camaraderie. I’m excited for the next chapter and all the adventures that retirement holds. Let’s keep in touch and continue the good times outside of the office. Thanks for everything!
Take care, [Your Name]
Example Retirement Speech From an Employee
Ladies and gentlemen,
As I stand before you today, I am filled with a mix of emotions as I retire from this wonderful company. It has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped my career.
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of my colleagues, past and present, for their unwavering support, collaboration, and friendship. Your dedication and hard work have made every day a pleasure, and I will cherish the memories we’ve created together.
I also want to thank the leadership team for their guidance and mentorship throughout the years. Your wisdom and encouragement have been invaluable, and I am truly appreciative of the trust you placed in me.
To my family, who have been my rock and source of strength, I owe a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. Your love and understanding have sustained me through the highs and lows of my career, and I look forward to spending more quality time with each of you in the years ahead.
As I embark on this new chapter of my life, I am filled with excitement for the opportunities that lie ahead. I am eager to explore new hobbies, travel to new destinations, and spend more time with loved ones. While I will miss the daily interactions with my colleagues, I am confident that the friendships we’ve formed will endure beyond the confines of the workplace.
In closing, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been a part of my journey. I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished together, and I am confident that the company will continue to thrive in the future. I leave with a sense of fulfillment and optimism, knowing that the best is yet to come.
Thank you all for your support, and I look forward to staying in touch in the years to come. Cheers to new beginnings and endless possibilities!
It has truly been an honor to represent [ABC Company]. Thank you! [Your Name]
Example Retirement Speech From President of a Company
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is with a profound sense of gratitude and reflection that I stand before you today as I retire from my role as the President of this esteemed company. The journey we have shared has been nothing short of remarkable, and I am deeply thankful for the collective efforts that have shaped our success.
First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the entire team. Your dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to excellence have been the driving force behind our achievements. I am proud to have been a part of such a talented and dedicated group of individuals.
I also want to extend my gratitude to our clients, partners, and stakeholders. Your trust, collaboration, and support have been instrumental in our growth and prosperity, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to work alongside each of you.
As I look back on my tenure as President, I am filled with pride for the milestones we have reached and the challenges we have overcome together. The memories we’ve created, the innovations we’ve pursued, and the relationships we’ve cultivated will forever hold a special place in my heart.
While I am closing this chapter of my career, I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. I look forward to new adventures, personal pursuits, and perhaps finding new ways to contribute to the business world in different capacities.
In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. I leave with a sense of fulfillment and optimism, knowing that the legacy we have built together will endure and continue to thrive in the years to come.
Thank you all for your support, and I look forward to staying connected with the company and its exceptional community.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
EXAMPLE 2: Teacher retirement speech
Ladies and gentlemen,
As I stand before you today, I am filled with a mix of emotions as I prepare to retire from my role as a teacher. It has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped my career in education.
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my colleagues, both past and present, for their unwavering support, collaboration, and friendship. Teaching is not a solitary profession, and I am thankful for the camaraderie and shared dedication to our students’ success.
To my students, past and present, I want to say a heartfelt thank you. You have been the source of inspiration and motivation throughout my career. Watching you learn, grow, and succeed has been the most rewarding aspect of my job, and I am honored to have been a part of your educational journey.
I also want to thank the parents and guardians who have entrusted me with the education and well-being of their children. Your partnership and support have been instrumental in creating a positive learning environment, and I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me.
As I look back on my years in the classroom, I am filled with pride for the impact we have made together. The memories we’ve created, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the lessons we’ve learned will forever hold a special place in my heart.
While I am closing this chapter of my life as a teacher, I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. I look forward to spending more time with my family, pursuing personal interests, and perhaps even finding new ways to contribute to education in a different capacity.
In closing, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been a part of my journey as an educator. I leave with a sense of fulfillment and optimism, knowing that the seeds we’ve planted together will continue to flourish in the years to come.
Thank you all for your support, and I look forward to staying connected with the wonderful community of educators and students that has enriched my life in countless ways.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Example Military Retirement Speech
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is with mixed emotions that I stand before you today as I retire from the military. I am deeply grateful for the experiences, challenges, and camaraderie that have defined my career.
First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to my fellow service members. Your dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering support have been the bedrock of our success, and I am honored to have served alongside such remarkable individuals.
I also want to thank my family for their unwavering support and understanding throughout the years. Your strength and resilience have sustained me through the demands of military life, and I am eager to embark on this new chapter with you by my side.
As I reflect on my time in the military, I am filled with pride for the contributions we have made to our nation’s defense. The memories we’ve shared, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the bonds we’ve formed will forever hold a special place in my heart.
While I am closing this chapter of my life in the military, I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. I look forward to spending more time with my loved ones, pursuing new passions, and continuing to serve in different capacities.
In closing, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of my military journey. I leave with a sense of fulfillment and optimism, knowing that the values and experiences instilled in me will guide me in the years to come.
Thank you all for your support, and I look forward to staying connected with the military community that has enriched my life in countless ways.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Looking Ahead
As you conclude your farewell speech, it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. You may feel relieved that you’re retiring, but also sad to leave behind your colleagues and the work you’ve done.
Even though you are leaving, your wisdom can live on. Take a mentor role and guide the next generation of leaders to achieve great things. You might be asked to consider to act as a part-time consultant to a former employer. This less demanding part time job may be the balance and fulfillment you are looking for in retirement
It’s also important to continue learning and growing, even in retirement. Stay curious and open-minded, and never stop pursuing your passions and interests.
As you move on to the next chapter of your life, take time for yourself and your loved ones, and pursue hobbies and interests that you’ve been putting off. Retirement is a time to enjoy life and do the things you love.
