When you write a farewell speech, it is usually consists of thoughts and feelings about past associations and future possibilities. Like any other speech, there are a few basic steps you need to prepare.

Analyze The Audience
Before you decide what to say in a farewell speech, you need to know who your listeners will be. Is is an employment situation? Are you a manager or a co-worker? Is it a group the person has been serving, such as a civic group or other organization? The audience will determine how you express your appreciation.

Tone Of The Speech
The tone of the farewell speech depends on the personality of the individual leaving, your own personality and the atmosphere of the room. A casual luncheon light refreshments will call for a lighthearted and funny approach. If you are speaking at a retiree banquet or from a podium, a more formal tone is required. That’s not to say you can’t inject some humor into any speech-it will be appreciated by your listeners-but let the humor influence the tone rather than take it over.

Focus Of The Speech
A good farewell speech should include several elements:

1. Address the person departing in friendly terms.
2. Talk a about the past. Give a brief description of the person leaving. Mention their personal characteristics, achievements and contributions.
3. Express gratitude for all the contributions, support and kindness they have rendered for the association or organization.
4. The final thought of a farewell speech should be linked to best wishes for the future.