As we go through life and continue to develop our communication and leadership skills, we are often called to speak at special functions in praise of a guest of honour.  These occasions include birthdays, anniversaries, retirement parties, wedding celebrations or the funeral of a family member or close friend.

Here are some tips from my personal experiences that will help you deliver your talk with poise and ensure that your mission is accomplished for both the guest of honour and the audience.

Material to Include

• Personal messages about the accomplishments of the individual
• Their source of inspiration (family, spirituality, etc)
• The legacy that they will leave us with
• The lessons we can learn from them or their contributions

You can illustrate these points with personal stories about the individual that you have witnessed, or that others have witnessed and shared with you.  If a short poem or quote is suitable to illustrate a point that you are making, include it.

Try to use some humour, especially if this is a joyous occasion.  The eulogy delivered at a funeral can also benefit by some humour by providing some relief from the stressful event, and lightening up the atmosphere to create more of a ‘Celebration of Life” rather than mourning the loss of someone.

Speaking in praise of someone is not a time to get even, rehash old conflicts, apologize for mistakes or make negative statements.  Stay positive with praise, recognition and acknowledgment of them and their life. Keep your material in good taste so that you appeal graciously to the entire audience.

Organize your information in a logical or chronological manner.  Start with non-emotional thoughts or words that you will be able to say with ease so that you can build confidence and self assurance as you begin speaking.

Delivery Tips

While delivering, focus on your message, the words and their meaning rather than the occasion, your feelings and your own emotions.  If you consider your message a gift to the audience it will help reduce stress because it takes your ego out of the equation.  It’s not about you, it’s about the message that your audience will receive.

Rehearse it a couple of times, and if any material causes you to break down emotionally then its best you leave it out.  Remember to breathe.  Start with a slow deep breath, in and out; then begin.  If your voice begins to quiver, pause and take another deep breath.

The end or close of your talk can make a great impact when you call your audience to action.  For example, ask your audience to use the lessons taught by this special person in their everyday living to make the world a better place.

Best of luck to you as you embrace the opportunity to speak in praise of someone.

Penny

P.S.  This article is dedicated to my dear Dad, Richard Tremblay, who recently passed away.  His loving spirit and continuous support within our family was an inspiration to me to accept the role of delivering the eulogy at his funeral mass.  In his honour, I am willing to help others who may be asked to speak in praise and deliver a eulogy on behalf their loved ones.  May God bless you today and always.