how to give a motivational speech to employees

How to give a motivational speech

• James Haynes
• August 11, 2022

Table of Contents

Introduction.

So you want to learn how to give a motivational speech. Maybe it’s for a motivational speech for work, or maybe it’s for a school project. You have an idea of what you want to speak about, but how do you actually create your talk? How do you give a motivational speech? And what makes a talk “good”?

In this post, you can read answers to all of those questions. You’ll learn tips to go through the process to create a great motivational speech from idea to completion. And you’ll learn how to write and give an inspiring motivational speech. Need examples of a motivational speech? Some examples will be at the end of this post!

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What is a motivational speech?

A motivational speech is simply a talk meant to get your audience to see or do something. Many of the practices that you can do to prepare for a motivational speech apply to any other type of talk!

The best motivational speakers on the planet only have one or two talks they do and those talks are insanely good. Start by developing just one, really amazing talk that resonates deeply with your intended audience. The best marketing for your motivational speaking business is a great talk, so it is worth it to put in the hours for this part. Yes, even if your first speaking gig is a free talk at a community center.

Keep in mind: Your audience is always going to be asking two questions: “so what?” and “now what?” So what means, what does this have to do with me?  Now what  is what you want the audience to do as a result of your talk. Give them action steps to implement what you taught them. If they hear you speak but literally don’t do anything differently, what’s the point?

Giving a motivational speech is almost like mapping for a road trip. If you are going to go on a road trip, it’s easier to have a paper map or Google Maps to tell you where you’re going. But if you just get in the car and you start driving, and people are in the car asking you where we’re going, you’re in trouble! But by organizing and structuring your talk, you can lead the audience to your conclusions. And you can effectively answer those two questions: “so what?” and “now what?”

Want to learn how to write a motivational speech? Read on for 3 steps to make it unforgettable:

1. Begin with the end in mind and tell a story

Have you ever been left at the end of a speech wondering, “What was the point of this talk?” Don’t do that to your audience. When creating your talk, determine the destination that you want to take them to. Once you pick a point, then you can work backwards and reverse engineer how to get your audience to that place.

The best way to do the point of your talk is to find where your audience’s needs converge with your passions. Think about what problems you like to solve and what topics you want to talk about and look out into the world. Who is asking for solutions to those problems? Become the expert on that audience and commit yourself to meeting their needs. (for more on finding your big idea, check out this episode of The Speaker Lab podcast)

Okay, so now you have your topic, the idea you want to communicate. Now what? One of the best ways to create a memorable, relatable talk is by integrating first-person stories . You don’t have to have lost a limb or scaled Mount Everest. Keep an eye out in your everyday life for little moments that can contribute to your message. Write them down and integrate them into your talk. As you get more speaking gigs, you will very quickly learn which stories are a hit and which are total flops…which is all part of the process!

Humans relate to stories. We connect to stories. Funny stories. Sad stories. Inspirational stories. We love stories. So tell them. Lots of them. Stories will keep your audience engaged and are also easier for you to memorize. Telling stories that you lived and experienced generally makes the story better for you and the audience. For the audience, they can often times find themselves in your story. For you as the speaker, it’s much easier (and more powerful) to tell a story that you lived versus one you read in a book.

2. Write out your material

Professional speakers don’t just make stuff up. They don’t write a few thoughts on a notecard and then shoot from the hip for an entire presentation. They take the time to write and carefully craft their material.

Oftentimes speakers want to have Powerpoint or Keynote slides to use as notes for their presentation. This is lazy. Don’t do this. Any slides you use should be an enhancement not a replacement of your talk. If you’re just going to stand up there and read off the screen, what does the audience need you for?

Use Powerpoint to show images that make a point. Some speakers will build their talk around their slides. Start with the talk FIRST and then determine if slides are needed or necessary. Slides are generally most effective for showing images or videos that can’t be conveyed in words. For example, if you were in some death-defying crash and that’s part of your talk, it’s one thing to tell that story, but it’s incredibly more powerful if you show pictures or video of it all.

Consider writing out your material. Professional speakers don’t just write a few thoughts on a notecard and then shoot from the hip for an entire presentation. They take the time to write and carefully craft their material. There is no right way to create a talk. You don’t need to memorize your talk like a script, but manuscripting can help you to think through the entire presentation and to know exactly how it all flows together. Some speakers prefer to have an outline with several bullet points and flesh it out from there. Every speaker is different. Find a process that works for you. (For more on fleshing out your talk, check out this episode of the Speaker Lab podcast here .)

3. On stage, be an amplified version of you

The bigger the venue, the bigger you need to be on stage. The way you would communicate to a group of 10 people is very different than how you would need to communicate to a room of 10,000. Both should be an authentic version of you, but simply amplified to the setting. The bottom line is don’t try to be something you’re not on stage. Be you.

Keep it slow and steady. When you are talking really fast, it becomes difficult for the audience to follow. It’s hard to keep up and process. Plus the faster you talk, the harder it is to understand what you’re saying. So slow down and enunciate. Give the audience the chance to keep up with where you’re going.

Don’t be afraid of the silence. The silence to a speaker can feel deafening but it can be powerful. Silence shows confidence that you’re in control of the talk and the room and you’re continuing to guide them towards a common purpose. When you make a strong point, don’t rush to the next line. Stop and let it hang there. The silence is your friend.

For some reason, there’s this misconception that the audience is out to get you. Like they are rooting for you to fail. Nothing could be further from the truth. The audience wants you to do well. They don’t want it to be a train wreck. If they’re going to spend their precious time sitting in your session, they want it to be good. They are on your side. So relax. Take a deep breath and enjoy yourself.

By following these steps, you can set yourself up for success. Many external variables help make a motivational speech go well. Beyond working these steps before giving a motivational speech, you should try to put as many of those variables in your favor as possible. Don’t stay up late the night before at a reception. Don’t eat a massive pasta bowl before you go on stage. Try to avoid speaking during a slot when most of the audience will be distracted. If all the variables are stacked against you but you crush your talk, it can still come across as “meh” to the audience.

Keep in mind: Speaking is like playing jazz – you don’t have to give a talk the same way every time. You can improvise and mix it up sometimes, and you don’t need to plan out every hand gesture or movement or exact line you’ll use. Some of that is fine, but also be present enough with the audience that you can play jazz when the moment calls for it.

If you have a dream to inspire others with your message, you’ve probably considered taking your passion to the stage. Becoming a motivational speaker might sound like a charmed life in many ways. And while it does take hard work, it totally is. Want to go deeper and learn how to become a motivational speaker ? Check out our article, “How to Become a Motivational Speaker” here!

In the meantime, here are a few rapid fire FAQs about motivational speeches. Happy speaking!

What are some examples of a motivational speech?

Some of the most well-known motivational speeches have been given at graduations from a school or training. One example of a famous motivational speech is academic researcher Brené Brown’s breakout 2010 TEDx Houston talk, “The Power of Vulnerability”, which became a top 5-viewed TED Talk online.

Looking for more examples of a motivational speech? Check out this article here.

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How much money can you make as a motivational speaker?

The runway to a successful business is often slow. But many speakers make 6+ figures a year within a couple years of starting their speaking business!

What degree you need to become a motivational speaker?

It does not matter! You can have no degree or a PhD in whatever field you like and still be a great motivational speaker.

Can anyone become a motivational speaker?

Absolutely.

How long does it take to become a motivational speaker?

This may vary quite a bit, primarily based on your state in life.

• Last Updated: February 29, 2024

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How to Give a Motivational Speech for Your Next Team Meeting

Hrideep barot.

• Workplace Communication

Have you ever been the center of attention at a team meeting, wondering how to inspire everyone there with real inspiration? It’s not just you. It might feel like an art form to write a speech that not only draws in listeners but also inspires genuine motivation. But don’t worry— we’re going to unpack the art of delivering a motivational speech for a team meeting.

Thus, stay with us if you’re preparing for your next team meeting and want to leave a lasting impact. Let’s investigate the different ways to give a speech that has the effect of a real discussion rather than a lecture, fostering a spirit of enthusiasm and cooperation that lasts long after you’ve left the room.

This article aims to address the following: 

• What is Motivational Speech?
• Why is it Important to Motivate your Team?
• Techniques for Giving a Motivational Speech
• Prerequisites for creating a Motivational Speech
• Sample of Motivational Speech
• Popular Motivational Speakers
• Conclusion.

WHAT IS A MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH?

A motivational speech is like a burst of energy for your spirit. It’s that talk that gets your heart racing, your mind buzzing with possibilities, and leaves you ready to take on the world. Picture it as a verbal pep talk, aiming to inspire and ignite a fire within you. Whether it’s a speaker on stage, your boss at a team meeting, or even a friend lifting your spirits, a good motivational speech has this magical ability to make you believe in yourself, see challenges as opportunities, and fill you with the courage to chase your dreams. It’s not just words; it’s a boost for your soul, a reminder that you’ve got what it takes to conquer whatever comes your way.

Check this out for more information on this topic. 

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO MOTIVATE YOUR TEAM?

Let’s break it down in simpler terms. Imagine your team as a group of friends planning a road trip. Motivation is like having a full tank of gas – it keeps your journey smooth and enjoyable. Here’s why keeping that tank full is so darn important:

Keep the Wheels Turning:

When your team is motivated, it’s like stepping on the gas pedal. Tasks get done, projects move forward, and everyone’s cruising toward success.

Happy Travelers:

Motivation adds a dose of joy to the work journey. It’s not just about reaching the destination; it’s about enjoying the ride. Motivated team members find satisfaction in what they do.

Reaching Pit Stops:

Ever tried a road trip without goals? Motivation sets the GPS. It helps your team set and reach targets, turning the work journey into a series of achievements.

A Solid Caravan:

Motivated teams stick together. It’s not a solo adventure; it’s a collective effort. Motivation creates a bond among team members, making sure nobody gets left behind.

Smooth Roads, Fewer Bumps:

A motivated team is a stress-free team. It’s like driving on a well-maintained highway – fewer potholes, less stress, and an overall smoother ride.

No Detours:

Motivated employees are less likely to jump ship. They’re committed to the trip, less tempted by other roadside attractions, and more likely to stay in the car with you.

Handling Roadblocks:

Motivation turns roadblocks into speed bumps. Instead of seeing challenges as showstoppers, a motivated team sees them as opportunities to learn and grow.

Innovation as the Scenic Route:

Ever taken the scenic route? That’s what a motivated team does. They’re not just following the GPS; they’re exploring new ideas and finding innovative shortcuts.

So, in the grand journey of work, motivation is your trusty fuel. It keeps your team’s engine running, ensures a happy crew, and makes the entire trip worthwhile. 

Check this out for more information on this topic.

TECHNIQUES FOR GIVING A MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH.

Giving a motivational speech is like setting the stage for a blockbuster movie – you want your audience on the edge of their seats, eager for what comes next. Here are some down-to-earth techniques to make your speech a hit:

1. Get Personal:

Share a bit of yourself, and let your audience see the real you. Personal stories make your message relatable and genuine.

Example: Share a personal story of overcoming a professional setback. “A few years ago, I faced a project failure that taught me valuable lessons in resilience. Today, I want to share that experience with you and inspire a collective spirit of resilience in our team.”

2. Kick Off with a Bang:

Start strong, imagine you’re opening a door to a fantastic world. A catchy quote, a surprising fact, or a quick story can be your key to that door.

Example: Start with a motivational quote: “As Vince Lombardi once said, ‘Individual commitment to a group effort—that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.’ Today, let’s explore how our individual commitments contribute to our collective success.”

3. Make Your Intent Clear:

Tell your audience why they should care. Make it crystal clear what you’re there to talk about and what you hope they’ll take away.

Example: Clarify the purpose of the speech: “The purpose of today’s meeting is to rekindle the spirit of collaboration within our team. By the end, I hope each of you feels motivated and connected to our shared goals.”

4. Tell Stories Like You’re Chatting:

Forget formalities and share your stories like you would with friends over coffee. This brings warmth and authenticity to your speech.

Example: Share a work-related story in a conversational manner: “Picture this: a tight deadline, unexpected challenges, and a team that rallied together to overcome every obstacle. This happened last month, and it reminded me of the strength we possess as a team.”

5. Sprinkle Some Positivity:

Choose words that bring sunshine, positivity is your secret sauce. It’s infectious and sets the mood for inspiration.

Example: Use positive affirmations: “Today is not just a meeting; it’s a celebration of our team’s capabilities. I believe in each of you, and together, there’s no challenge too great for us to tackle.”

6. Throw in a Few Chuckles:

Laughter is a universal language. A well-timed joke or a funny anecdote can break the ice and make your speech memorable.

Example: Share a lighthearted work-related anecdote: “Who else has experienced a ‘Monday moment’ on a Wednesday? I know I have, and sometimes, a good laugh is the best remedy for workplace blues.”

7. Let Your Body Talk:

Your body is part of the conversation. Smile, make eye contact, and let your gestures add flavor to your words. It’s like seasoning for your speech.

Example: Maintain eye contact and smile genuinely: “As we discuss our journey today, I want to emphasize the importance of genuine connections. So, let’s keep the eye contact alive, and feel free to share those smiles. We’re in this together!”

8. Encourage Action:

Motivate your audience to take a step forward. A speech without a call to action is like a movie without a climax. Guide them on what to do next.

Example: Motivate the audience to set individual goals: “Before we conclude, I want each of you to jot down one personal goal you want to achieve this month. Let’s turn today’s inspiration into actionable steps toward personal and team success.”

9. Jazz it Up with Visuals:

Use visuals like you’re telling a storybook. Slides, images, or props can add a visual rhythm to your speech.

Example: Use slides to showcase collaborative achievements: “Here’s a visual representation of our recent successes. Each slide represents a milestone, and together, they tell a story of our collective triumphs.”

10. Hit Emotional Chords:

Make your audience feel something, and share moments that tug at the heartstrings. Emotion makes your message stick.

Example: Share a personal story that evokes determination: “In my career, I faced a moment of doubt, but the support of this team fueled my determination. I want you to feel that same fire within you as we tackle challenges together.”

11. Finish with a Bang:

End like you’re leaving your audience with a cliffhanger. Summarize, hit your main points, and leave them feeling excited and motivated.

Example: Summarize key points with enthusiasm: “Today, we explored the strength of our team, celebrated our successes, and set the stage for future triumphs. I’m leaving this room with immense pride in each of you. Let’s continue this journey with passion and purpose!”

Remember, a good motivational speech isn’t about impressing; it’s about connecting. So, speak from the heart, be yourself, and leave your audience feeling ready to conquer the world! 

Check this out for more information on this topic

PREREQUISITES OF CREATING A MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH .

1. understand your audience:.

Consider conducting surveys or interviews to gather insights into your audience’s preferences, challenges, and expectations. Use this information to tailor your message to their specific needs and create a stronger connection.

2. Define Your Purpose:

Clearly articulate the expected outcomes of your speech. Whether it’s boosting team morale, fostering a sense of purpose, or encouraging personal development, defining your purpose helps shape the content and structure of your speech.

3. Gather Relevant Stories and Examples:

Develop a repertoire of stories that not only align with your key messages but also resonate with the experiences of your audience. Personalize each story to make it relatable, ensuring that listeners can see themselves in the narrative.

4. Establish Credibility:

Share specific instances where your expertise or experiences have contributed to successful outcomes. This could include successful projects you’ve led, professional certifications, or lessons learned from overcoming challenges. Building credibility involves providing tangible evidence of your capabilities.

5. Create a Strong Outline:

Within the introduction, consider incorporating a “hook” that captures immediate attention, such as a thought-provoking question or a brief anecdote. In the conclusion, emphasize the key takeaways and end with a call to action, prompting the audience to apply what they’ve learned.

6. Incorporate Engaging Elements:

Explore various types of visuals, such as infographics, charts, or short video clips, to cater to different learning styles. Incorporate audience participation by posing questions or facilitating brief discussions. Engaging elements should complement your verbal message and enhance audience understanding.

7. Tailor Your Language:

Choose language that reflects the culture and communication style of your audience. If you’re addressing a diverse group, consider incorporating inclusive language to ensure that everyone feels represented. Tailoring your language fosters a sense of connection and understanding.

8. Consider Timing:

Break down your speech into time segments for each section. Allocate more time to critical points and less to supporting details. Be mindful of natural pauses, allowing the audience to absorb information. Effective timing ensures a well-paced and engaging presentation.

9. Anticipate Questions and Reactions:

Develop comprehensive responses to potential questions, considering alternative perspectives or concerns that may arise. During the speech, actively observe the audience’s reactions and adjust your delivery based on their engagement level. Anticipating questions demonstrates preparedness and enhances your ability to connect with the audience.

SAMPLE OF MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH .

“Hey Team! How’s everyone doing today? Let’s kick off with a little pep talk because, hey, we’re an awesome bunch, and we need a reminder of that now and then. Look at us — a bunch of talented, creative, and downright cool individuals. Seriously, have you seen the awesome stuff we’ve been pulling off together? It’s like a superhero team, but without the capes (unless you’re into that kind of thing). So, here’s the deal. We’re not just clocking in and out; we’re on a journey together. It’s a bit like a rollercoaster – ups, downs, twists, and turns. But guess what? Roller Coasters are exciting, and so is our journey. Sure, we’ve got challenges. But here’s the secret sauce; those challenges? They’re just hurdles in a race we’re winning. Every problem we solve, every deadline we smash – that’s us leveling up. I want each of you to take a moment to appreciate the uniqueness you bring to this team. Your quirks, your skills, your coffee preferences – they all matter. As we move forward, let’s not just aim to get the job done. Let’s aim to rock it. Let’s make our tasks our own, add a bit of flair, and make it so awesome that people will be talking about it. Remember, we’re not just colleagues; we’re a squad. We’ve got each other’s backs. Your win is my win, and together, we’re unstoppable.

In the words of someone probably wise, “Teamwork makes the dream work.” And I believe our dreams are pretty epic. So, let’s tackle the day with a high-five, a smile, and the knowledge that we’re in this together. Ready to rock? Cheers to an awesome day, team! “

Check the video out to learn more about how to write and deliver such speeches. 

POPULAR MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS.

Tony robbins.

Tony Robbins, the motivational expert, doesn’t just speak – he’s a force of inspiration. Imagine this: he’s not just on stage; he’s leading a revolution in how we approach life. With his infectious enthusiasm, Tony delves deep into the workings of our minds and emotions, urging us to break free from limitations and seize success. It’s not just motivational talk; it’s practical strategies for conquering life’s challenges. Whether it’s his captivating speeches or life-altering advice, Tony Robbins isn’t just a speaker; he’s your motivator, encouraging you to overcome fears and live your fullest life. His impact isn’t fleeting; it’s a game-changer for millions worldwide.

One of his speeches includes:

Dave Ramsey 

Dave Ramsey, a motivational powerhouse, isn’t your typical financial guru; he’s your money confidant. He doesn’t just throw numbers at you; he’s in it to make a change in your life. Imagine this: instead of lecturing, he’s having a real talk about money, debts, and dreams. With his down-to-earth style and a sprinkle of humor, Dave helps you achieve financial freedom. Whether he’s rocking the stage, writing books, or on the airwaves, Ramsey isn’t just a speaker; he’s that friendly guide helping you conquer debt, handle money, and embrace your best life. His impact is more than dollars – it’s about sparking hope and giving you a roadmap to a brighter financial future. 

Check this video out for one of his speeches: 

Chris Gardner 

Chris Gardner, the man who inspired “The Pursuit of Happiness,” isn’t just a speaker; he’s your personal motivation booster. Picture this: he doesn’t just narrate a tale; he shares his journey from homelessness to success, a rollercoaster of resilience and hope. Chris has this amazing knack for turning tough times into victories, and when he speaks, you can’t help but feel empowered to face your challenges. He’s not just a character from a movie; he’s a living reminder that, no matter how tough life gets, you have the power to script your own story of happiness.

Here’s one of his speeches: 

Suze Orman 

The money expert Suze Orman isn’t your typical financial wizard; rather, she’s a helpful buddy who guides you through the complex world of personal finance. Rather than overwhelming you with financial jargon, she makes financial issues approachable and powerful. Suze’s influence extends beyond her discussions of investments and budgets; she is a powerful motivator for taking charge of your financial destiny. Her speeches are similar to an international pep rally in that they provide you with financial security advice and inspire a shift in perspective towards plenty. Suze Orman is not only concerned with finances; she is an enthusiastic promoter of both financial and personal empowerment, inspiring individuals to make financially responsible decisions with self-assurance and direction.

Here’s one of her speeches: 

So, as we wrap up our exploration into the art of delivering a motivational speech for your next team meeting, remember that the power of words goes beyond mere communication; it has the ability to ignite passion, foster collaboration, and leave an enduring impact. Whether drawing inspiration from the dynamic Tony Robbins, the financial wisdom of Dave Ramsey, the resilience of Chris Gardner, or the practical guidance of Suze Orman, motivational speakers serve as stimulants for personal and professional transformation.

In the grand journey of work, motivation is the fuel that keeps your team’s engine running, ensuring a happy crew and making the entire trip worthwhile. As you gear up for your next team meeting, armed with the techniques and insights shared here, remember that a good motivational speech is not just about impressing but connecting. Speak from the heart, be yourself, and leave your audience feeling ready to conquer the world. After all, it’s not just about the words; it’s about the impact, the inspiration, and the lasting motivation that resonates long after the meeting. So, go out there, inspire, and make your next team meeting an unforgettable experience. 

Cheers to a journey filled with motivation, collaboration, and success!

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The 24 Best Motivational Speeches Our Employees Have Ever Heard

Published: July 19, 2023

It was halftime during one of my 7th-grade football games. And we were losing 14 - 0. With our knees planted in the grass, my team was quietly huddled, drenched in sweat and defeat. Suddenly, it was game over.

That's when our assistant coach burst into our circle and shattered our pity party, delivering one of the best motivational speeches I've heard to this day.

I can't directly quote him because he said some inappropriate things for a blog post (and, in hindsight, probably for a bunch of 13-year-olds too).

The point is he harnessed the power of words to rejuvenate a physically and emotionally drained team. And we came back clawing to win the game.

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Motivational Speech

A motivational speech can come from anywhere or anyone, but it usually has a specific audience in mind.

Whether it's a graduation speech, an all-company meeting, a championship sporting event, or a conference keynote, these speeches are designed to change how their listeners see the challenges facing them in the future.

Like in sports, being motivated at work is crucial for your performance. This rings especially true when you have a looming deadline, an important meeting, or colleagues or customers depending on your performance.

Think about the last time you felt generally unmotivated. What brought you out of that feeling? Sometimes all it takes to get you going is a good night's sleep or witnessing the benefits of your labor.

Still, other times, you might listen to someone say something that resonates with you — that alters how you've been looking at a particular task or problem.

Motivational speeches and speakers can come in all different forms, but this is the one thing they have in common — resonance. They resonate with the right listener at the right time and in the right way.

Who knows, this article is doing some for you right now. (I can dream, can't I?)

We selected 24 of the best motivational speeches from business, sports, entertainment, and other fields to help you stay motivated no matter what your work throws at you. Watch these videos if you want to feel inspired by a project.

Trust me, I was wiping my eyes after I saw them. And while the messages vary from speech to speech, they can put you in the optimal frame of mind for tackling and crushing your next big challenge.

(Disclaimer: Some speeches may contain NSFW language.)

Elon Musk: "The Importance of Never Giving Up" (2020)

Angela Ahrendts: "Leading with Empathy" (2023)

Arianna Huffington: "The Power of Sleep" (2023)

Tim Cook: "Inclusion and Diversity" (2023)

J.K. Rowling: “The Fringe Benefits of Failure, and the Importance of Imagination” (2008)

Sheryl Sandberg: "Lean In" (2021)

Jim Carrey: Commencement Speech at Maharishi University of Management (2014)

Steve Jobs: "How to Live Before You Die" (2005)

Matthew McConaughey: "The Pursuit of Happiness" (2022)

Denzel Washington: "Fall Forward" (2011)

Vera Jones: “But the Blind Can Lead the Blind…” (2016)

Oprah Winfrey: "The Power of Self-Belief" (2020)

Charlie Day: Merrimack College Commencement Speech (2014)

Brené Brown: "The Power of Vulnerability" (2013)

Kobe Bryant: “The Path to Greatness" (2020)

David Foster Wallace: "This Is Water" (2005)

Carol Dweck: "The Growth Mindset" (2020)

Al Pacino: "Inch by Inch" (1999)

Satya Nadella: "Empowering Others" (2023)

Sylvester Stallone: Speech from Rocky Balboa (2006)

Will Smith: Speech from The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Mel Robbins: "The 5 Second Rule" (2020)

Angela Duckworth: "The Power of Grit" (2020)

Kurt Russell: “This is Your Time” (2004)

The Best Motivational Speeches of All Time

1. elon musk: "the importance of never giving up" (2020), theme of speech: perseverance and resilience.

Elon Musk's "The Importance of Never Giving Up" speech about perseverance and determination is decisive.

In this speech, Musk emphasizes failing and learning from failures as keys to success. He recounts his life and career, demonstrating how he overcame challenges.

One key takeaway from Musk's speech is his advice to adopt a growth mindset.

Musk encourages listeners to view setbacks as learning experiences. He also highlights the value of perseverance, persistence, and taking risks.

Elon Musk's word serves as an upbeat reminder that perseverance, patience, and the desire to attempt things repeatedly in the face of difficulty are essential for success.

"If something is important enough, even if the odds are against you, you should still do it."

2. Angela Ahrendts: "Leading with Empathy" (2023)

Theme of the speech: empathetic leadership....

The "Leading with Empathy" talk by Angela Ahrendts emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and compassion in leadership.

According to Ahrendts, leaders must view their employees as whole people with lives outside of work. Leaders can instill trust, respect, and mutual support in their employees and organizations.

Ahrendts emphasizes the importance of team mission as well. Leaders can inspire their teams by connecting them to a greater goal.

She believes that working together fosters creativity, innovation, and growth.

"Leading with Empathy" is a powerful reminder that leadership requires more than technical knowledge. To truly inspire and motivate their employees, leaders must understand their emotional needs and create a supportive, inclusive environment.

"Empathy is the glue that holds relationships together, whether they are personal or professional."

3. Arianna Huffington: "The Power of Sleep" (2023)

Theme of the speech: sleep and productivity.

The Huffington Post's founder, Arianna Huffington, emphasized the importance of sleep to overall health. In her 2023 speech, "The Power of Sleep," she discusses how sleep deprivation affects our health, productivity, and happiness.

Huffington observes that we have been taught to sacrifice sleep for success. She also mentions that well-rested employees are more creative, efficient, and effective.

To address these issues, Huffington proposes a cultural shift that recognizes sleep as essential to health and wellness.

She advises individuals and organizations to prioritize sleep, avoid technology before bedtime, and create a restful sleep environment. Sleep, according to Huffington, is a necessity, not a luxury.

By recognizing the importance of sleep, people and businesses can enhance their health, productivity, and general well-being.

Arianna Huffington's "The Power of Sleep" speech in 2023 emphasizes the importance of sleep and the dangers of sleep deprivation.

It promotes a culture where getting enough sleep is essential for health and well-being.

"Sleep is the Swiss Army knife of health, it does everything."

4. Tim Cook: "Inclusion and Diversity" (2023)

Theme of the speech: inclusion and diversity.

Apple CEO Tim Cook advocates for inclusion and diversity. He has been instrumental in the company's initiatives to advance fairness and equality inside its ranks and across the technology sector.

Cook has prioritized diversity and inclusion at Apple because he believes it is proper and necessary for innovation and business success.

Unconscious bias training, diverse recruitment, and employee resource groups contributed to his success.

Outside of Apple, Cook has advocated for LGBTQ+ rights and immigration reform. He has raised awareness of these issues and advocated for social change as a business leader.

Tech leaders and others have lauded Cook's commitment to diversity and inclusion. He has raised awareness of these issues, leading to significant change at Apple and elsewhere.

"Inclusion and diversity are not just buzzwords, they are fundamental values that drive innovation and creativity."

5. J.K. Rowling: “The Fringe Benefits of Failure, and the Importance of Imagination” (2008)

Theme of speech: failure.

In J.K. Rowling's 2008 Harvard commencement speech, the Harry Potter author explored how two phenomena -- failure and imagination -- can be crucial to success.

While failure can help you understand where your true passion lies, and where you should focus your energy moving forward, imagination is what will allow you to empathize with other people so you can use your influence to do good.

“We do not need magic to change the world, we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better.”

"You have to understand your own personal DNA. Don't do things because I do them or Steve Jobs or Mark Cuban tried it. You need to know your personal brand and stay true to it."

6. Sheryl Sandberg: "Lean In" (2021)

Theme of the speech: gender equality and leadership.

Sheryl Sandberg's 2021 talk, "Lean In," encourages women to lean into their careers and leadership roles. She urges women to stand up for one another and themselves to overcome societal and cultural hurdles.

Sandberg highlights the need to have distinct objectives and goals and be prepared to take calculated risks to achieve them.

She also underlines how crucial it is for more female leaders to advance diversity and gender equality across all industries.

Sandberg's speech also emphasizes collaboration. She urges women to mentor other women and look for sponsors and mentors themselves.

The "Lean In" talk by Sheryl Sandberg emphasizes women's voices and perspectives in all aspects of society.

To remove barriers and foster more inclusive and varied workplaces and communities, Sandberg urges women to pursue their professional ambitions with confidence and with the help of their communities.

"We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women's voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored."

7. Jim Carrey: Commencement Speech at Maharishi University of Management (2014)

Theme of speech: taking risks.

Jim Carrey might make a living as the goofiest comedian around, but in 2014, he combined classic Carrey humor with unforgettable insight at Maharishi University of Management's graduation ceremony.

Jim Carrey opened his speech dishing punchlines, but he eventually opened up about his upbringing and the role fear plays in our lives. You can actually hear the amazement in the students' reactions in the video above.

“I learned many great lessons from my father -- not the least of which is that you can fail at what you don't want, so you might as well take a chance on doing what you love.”

8. Steve Jobs: "How to Live Before You Die" (2005)

Theme of speech: life and career.

Considering the YouTube video of Steve Jobs' 2005 Stanford commencement speech has 24 million views, it's likely that you've seen this one already.

In the speech, Jobs plays on two themes: connecting the dots (anecdote: how taking a calligraphy class helped inspire the design of the Mac) and love & loss (anecdote: how getting fired from Apple helped inspire his greatest innovations).

Perhaps the most memorable part his speech comes at the end, when he quotes the (now-famous) lines from the final issue of his favorite publication, The Whole Earth Catalog:

“Stay hungry. Stay foolish.”

9. Matthew McConaughey: "The Pursuit of Happiness" (2022)

Theme of the speech: discovering true happiness and fulfillment in life..

In "The Pursuit of Happiness," famed actor and motivational speaker Matthew McConaughey provides his enlightened viewpoint on obtaining true happiness and fulfillment.

McConaughey presents a genuine and approachable study of what it means to live a fulfilling life through sincere storytelling and personal anecdotes.

The speech discusses the significance of authenticity and remaining true to oneself. McConaughey encourages people to define their success rather than succumb to social pressures or external expectations.

He stresses aligning our behaviors and decisions with our fundamental values and passions.

McConaughey expresses his conviction in the power of thankfulness and the importance of living in the present moment. He encourages people to create a grateful mindset, recognizing the blessings and possibilities surrounding them.

By appreciating the present and finding joy in the journey, individuals can experience more profound happiness and fulfillment.

"Happiness is not a destination. It's a state of mind, a journey, and a choice we make every day."

10. Denzel Washington: "Fall Forward" (2011)

In his 2011 UPenn commencement speech, Denzel Washington highlighted three reasons why we need to embrace failure in order to be successful. First, everybody will fail at something at some point, so you better get used to it.

Second, if you never fail, take that as a sign that you're not really trying. And third, at the end of the day, failure will help you figure out what path you want to be on.

“Fall forward. Here's what I mean: Reggie Jackson struck out twenty-six-hundred times in his career — the most in the history of baseball. But you don't hear about the strikeouts. People remember the home runs.

Fall forward.

Thomas Edison conducted 1,000 failed experiments. Did you know that? I didn't know that—because #1,001 was the light bulb. Fall forward. Every failed experiment is one step closer to success.”

11. Vera Jones: “But the Blind Can Lead the Blind…” (2016)

Theme of speech: perseverance.

Last year at INBOUND, Vera Jones told a moving story about the life lessons she's learned from raising her blind son.

She explains how having faith in your future and letting it lead you toward your true purpose will help you overcome blinding obstacles.

She also discusses how following your passion and trusting your vision develops empathy, which is a critical leadership skill.

“Passionately play your position no matter how bad things get. You are significant. Why we are here is not for our own glory. Ultimately, we're here to lead and serve everybody else. By doing that, we encourage others to do the same.”

12. Oprah Winfrey: "The Power of Self-Belief" (2020)

Theme of Speech: Self-Belief and Confidence

Oprah Winfrey's 2020 speech "The Power of Self-Belief" emphasized the importance of self-assurance. She attributed her success to her unwavering self-assurance.

According to Oprah, self-belief is not about being arrogant or overconfident. She stresses the significance of overcoming self-doubt and fear, which can prevent people from reaching their goals.

Oprah used personal stories to demonstrate how self-confidence has aided her in life and work. She encouraged her audience to believe in themselves and to embrace their inner strength.

The Power of Self-Belief" reminded us how important it is to have faith in ourselves and our ability to succeed.

"The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams."

13. Charlie Day: Merrimack College Commencement Speech (2014)

Best known for his role in the sitcom It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, actor Charlie Day had lots of wisdom to share during the 2014 commencement speech at his alma mater, Merrimack College.

Day explained to the audience how college degrees are inherently valueless, since you can't trade them in for cash. Instead, it's you, your hard work, and the risks you take that provide real value in life.

“You cannot let a fear of failure or a fear of comparison or a fear of judgment stop you from doing the things that will make you great. You cannot succeed without the risk of failure.

You cannot have a voice without the risk of criticism. You cannot love without the risk of loss. You must take these risks.”

14. Brené Brown: "The Power of Vulnerability" (2013)

The video above is an animated excerpt from researcher Brené Brown's speech, " The Power of Vulnerability ." In the speech, Brown explores how our fear of not being good enough (among other fears) drives us to shield ourselves from our own vulnerabilities.

The alternative to wearing this emotional suit of armor: Embrace vulnerability through empathizing with others.

"Empathy is a choice, and it's a vulnerable choice. Because in order to connect with you, I have to connect with something in myself that knows that feeling."

15. Kobe Bryant: “The Path to Greatness" (2020)

Theme of the speech: embracing dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of greatness..

Bryant emphasizes setting ambitious goals and working tirelessly to achieve them. Through captivating storytelling and personal anecdotes, he reveals the sacrifices and relentless effort required to excel at the highest level.

Bryant's speech is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, and a growth mindset in attaining greatness.

The speech also explores embracing failure as a stepping stone to success. Bryant shares how setbacks and challenges can fuel personal growth and resilience.

He encourages individuals to embrace failure, learn from it, and use it as motivation to push beyond their limits.

Bryant's speech goes beyond the realm of sports, offering valuable insights and life lessons applicable to all areas of life.

His relentless pursuit of greatness and unwavering commitment to excellence inspires individuals striving to achieve their goals and dreams.

"I have self-doubt. I have insecurity. I have fear of failure. I have nights when I show up at the arena and I'm like, 'My back hurts, my feet hurt, my knees hurt. I don't have it. I just want to chill.'

We all have self-doubt. You don't deny it, but you also don't capitulate to it. You embrace it."

16. David Foster Wallace: "This Is Water" (2005)

From the opening minutes of David Foster Wallace's 2005 Kenyon College commencement speech , in which he questions commencement speech conventions, it's clear that Wallace has some serious wisdom to share.

The crux of his speech: Many of us are oblivious to our own close-mindedness. We picture ourselves as the centers of our own, individual universes, instead of seeing the bigger, more interconnected picture.

“If you're automatically sure that you know what reality is and who and what is really important, if you want to operate on your default setting, then you, like me, probably won't consider possibilities that aren't annoying and miserable.

But if you've really learned how to think, how to pay attention, then you'll know you have other options.

It will actually be within your power to experience a crowded, hot, slow, consumer hell-type situation as not only meaningful, but sacred — on fire with the same force that lit the stars: love, fellowship, the mystical oneness of all things deep down.”

17. Carol Dweck: "The Growth Mindset" (2020)

Theme of the speech: cultivating a growth mindset for personal and professional development..

In "The Growth Mindset," Carol Dweck, a renowned psychologist, and author, delivers an enlightening speech on the power of adopting a growth mindset for personal and professional growth.

Dweck's extensive research on mindset and achievement provides the foundation for her impactful message.

Dweck explains the difference between a fixed mindset, where individuals believe their abilities are fixed traits, and a growth mindset, where individuals believe their abilities can be developed through effort and learning.

She demonstrates how a growth mindset fosters resilience, learning, and innovation through relatable stories and compelling examples.

Dweck's speech resonates with individuals seeking personal and professional development, as she provides insights into how adopting a growth mindset can positively impact all areas of life.

Her research-based approach and engaging speaking style make "The Growth Mindset" an inspiring resource for individuals striving for continuous growth and improvement.

"The passion for stretching yourself and sticking to it, even when it's not going well, is the hallmark of the growth mindset."

Famous Short Speeches With Inspirational Takeaways

18. al pacino: "inch by inch" (1999), theme of speech: teamwork.

Yes, this speech is from a football movie (Any Given Sunday), but trust me: This isn't your stereotypical rah-rah-go-get-'em sports speech. It's deeper than that. It's about life, and loss, and ... gosh darn it just listen to Al Pacino.

He's pouring his soul out!

“Either we heal as a team or we're gonna crumble, inch by inch, play by play, till we're finished. We're in hell right now, gentlemen, believe me.

And we can stay here and get the $&#@ kicked out of us, or we can fight our way back into the light. We can climb out of hell, one inch at a time.”

19. Satya Nadella: "Empowering Others" (2023)

Theme of the Speech: Empowerment and Collaboration

Satya Nadella's 2023 lecture, "Empowering Others," emphasizes the importance of leadership that empowers others rather than focusing on personal success.

He emphasizes the importance of leaders cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging in which everyone feels respected and able to accomplish their best work.

Nadella also discusses the significance of technology in positive development. Some of society's most important issues may be resolved by technology, but proper development and application are required.

According to Nadella, empathy and emotional intelligence are essential for outstanding leadership. He suggests that Leaders listen to and understand. their team members' needs and motivations.

Leaders can develop a culture of trust and collaboration that will help the team flourish.

Satya Nadella's "Empowering Others" provides a special message about leadership in the current day. By emphasizing diversity, empathy, and responsible innovation, Nadella encourages audiences to strive for excellence while being mindful of their impact on others and the world.

"Success is not just about what we achieve individually, but what we enable others to achieve."

20. Sylvester Stallone: Speech from Rocky Balboa (2006)

Theme of speech: never give up.

I had to put this one next since it plays along the same themes as Denzel Washington's UPenn speech. In the scene above, from the 2006 film Rocky Balboa, the title character (played by Sylvester Stallone) is having a heart-to-heart with his son.

The advice he gives him: Don't let your failures or the adversity you face slow you down. Keep. Moving. Forward.

“Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place, and I don't care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it.

You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard you hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done!”

21. Will Smith: Speech from The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Theme of speech: don’t let them bring you down.

Here's another speech from the big screen, this time from the 2006 film The Pursuit of Happyness.

In the scene above, Will Smith's character explains to his son why he shouldn't pursue basketball (because he'll end up being "below average") before having a major change of heart.

“Don't ever let somebody tell you ... you can't do something. Not even me. All right? You got a dream. You gotta protect it. People can't do something themselves, they want to tell you can't do it. If you want something, go get it. Period.”

22. Mel Robbins: "The 5 Second Rule" (2020)

Theme of the Speech: Action and Overcoming Self-Doubt

The "The 5 Second Rule" speech by Mel Robbins promotes action to achieve goals and overcome concerns and doubts.

When confronted with a decision or action that needs to be completed but you are hesitating or procrastinating, countdown from 5, and then act. According to Robbins, this method breaks habit loops that keep us unhealthy.

Counting down and taking action may assist us in overcoming uncertainty and self-doubt and moving toward our objectives. For success, Robbins also promotes mentality and self-talk.

She believes that to realize our potential, we must consciously reframe negative thoughts and limiting beliefs.

Mel Robbins' presentation "The 5 Second Rule" is a practical and efficient technique to overcome procrastination and achieve goals.

Robbins inspires listeners to take command of their lives and achieve by emphasizing attitude, self-talk, and positive actions.

"You are never going to feel like doing the things that are tough, difficult, or uncertain, but you have a choice."

23. Angela Duckworth: "The Power of Grit" (2020)

Theme of the Speech: Spirit and Perseverance

Angela Duckworth examines the significance of perseverance and resilience in achievement in her book "The Power of Grit." According to Duckworth, grit—passion and determination—is essential for long-term success and overcoming obstacles.

Duckworth addresses grit and mentality, believing that people who view challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than threats will develop resilience and determination over time.

She advocates for a growth mindset, which believes people can acquire intelligence and other qualities through hard work. Duckworth places a premium on rigorous practice to achieve skill and mastery.

She recommends soliciting feedback, setting challenging goals, and intentionally improving abilities and succeeding. Angela Duckworth's "The Power of Grit" illuminates long-term achievement.

Duckworth emphasizes attitude, focused practice, and resilience to urge listeners to acquire grit and pursue their passions with tenacity.

"Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. Grit is having stamina. Grit is sticking with your future, day in, day out, not just for the week, not just for the month, but for years, and working really hard to make that future a reality."

24. Kurt Russell: “This is Your Time” (2004)

Theme of speech: inspiring and believing in your team.

The Miracle on Ice is still considered the biggest upset in Olympic hockey history. And for good reason. The Soviet Union won six of the last seven Olympic gold medals, and the U.S. team consisted only of amateur players.

It was obvious the Soviets were better. But, in the movie Miracle, which told the incredible story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team, Kurt Russell's character — Coach Herb Brooks — knew that this game was different.

The U.S. was better than the Soviets that day. And his speech conveyed such a strong belief in his team that they pulled off one of the greatest sports moments of the 20th century.

“If we played 'em ten times, they might win nine. But not this game… Not tonight. Tonight, we skate with them. Tonight, we stay with them. And we shut them down because we can!

Tonight, WE are the greatest hockey team in the world. You were born to be hockey players, every one of you. And you were meant to be here tonight. This is your time.”

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How To Give a Better Speech To Your Employees

One of the most common mistakes executives make when giving motivational speeches to their employees is not preparing ahead of time. Yes, it takes additional time and energy to plan out a good speech, but doing so is necessary for the speech to have a truly beneficial impact on your employees. Don’t get up their on stage to try and “wing” it, as this will likely turn into a memorable disaster that employees will talk about for years to come (not in a good way). Instead, plan your speech out longer before the actual event takes place.

Speak Confidently

When you are up there on the microphone talking in front of a crowd full of people, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed from all the eyes focused on you. As a result, you might trip up on your words, say the wrong thing, or forget your speech altogether. By maintaining a confident attitude, you will naturally have a smoother speech with fewer hiccups.

The trick to speaking confidently in front of your employees is to focus on your speech and not the large crowd. As with most things in life, the more speeches you give, the better you’ll become at it. Just keep putting yourself out there and it will eventually become second nature to you.

Tell Stories

Telling stores during a motivational speech can help to capture your employees’ attention so they are more interested in what you have to say. Perhaps you can tell a story about some of the successful long-time employees at your company, recognizing them for their dedication. This will encourage others to follow in their footsteps. Another option is to tell a short story about how the company was originally formed.

Keep It Short and Sweet

Giving a long, drawn out motivational speech will bore your employees and likely have the opposite effect than what you wished for. Try to keep your speech short an sweet while focusing on the key points. You don’t have to rush it, but you should refrain from talking for hours on end. Let’s face it, no one wants to listen to a long speech, so wrap yours up in a timely manner.

How to Give a Powerful Motivational Speech to your Employees

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Grow your Business » Managing a Business » Find and Manage Employees

Do you want to talk to your staff and inspire them to work smarter? If YES, here are 10 tips on how to give a powerful motivational message to your employees.

Motivating other people is usually no easy feat, yet, if you want your employees to grow, get better and stay satisfied with their job, then you have to learn how to motivate them. A motivational speech can be that push that your staff need in order to work harder, which in turn will lead to more productivity for your organization, overall satisfaction and subsequently result in higher employee retention.

As a business owner, seeing signs such as reduction in the quality of your employees’ work, or failing to meet up with work schedule calls for your intervention. Whatever the signs you have detected, you suspect that it’s time for a feel-good speech in order to boost morale.

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Some small business owners may be intimidated by the idea of making a ‘speech’ so you can always see it as a ‘pep talk’. No matter what you call it, here are some tips for invigorating your staff with your motivational speech.

How to Give a Powerful Motivational Speech to your Employees and Inspire Them to Work Smarter

1. Plan Your “Stage”: when you want to deliver a motivational talk to your staff, you will have to bear in mind that where you deliver your talk is just as important as what you say. You can send out an email to your staff asking them to be in the conference room at a certain time of the day or you can choose to tell them to close up early one day and make a “spontaneous” presentation? (They’ll think it’s spontaneous, but you’ll know better.)

2. Plan your Speech: consider some of the greatest motivational speeches from the past, from Winston Churchill rallying the British against Hitler to JFK’s challenge to Americans to do more for their country, these speakers employed a call-for-action from their audiences.

There are tons of videos on YouTube that you can watch to give you can idea . Take note of the speakers’ cadence, choice of words and delivery. Also, take note of how the speakers used certain words.

Martin Luther King repeated “I have a dream” to emphasize his points. President Kennedy offered a balance in his “Ask not …” passage. Notice that all great speakers use short phrases in repetition to drive their points home and keep the audience engaged

3. Think Like a Performer: even though you may not be the type that likes to show off, there is still a need to burnish your skills during your presentation. Be yourself, be authentic, but think about adding a dramatic touch to your talk, just as a performer would. At the very least, your employees should feel good about the fact that you put thought into making your speech memorable.

4. Monroe’s Motivated Sequence: one of the formats that has proven to be effective for giving motivational speeches to staff is the Monroe’s Motivated Sequence. For example, capture your employees’ attention with a riveting statistic and convince them that there is a need to address the statistical problem, and then demonstrate that there is a solution to the problem.

Paint a visual picture of what happens if the problem is solved, such as higher sales and more job security for everyone. Then paint a picture of what happens if it is not solved, such as a need to cut costs and reduce payroll. Conclude the speech by challenging your employees to take action to solve the problem.

5. Pick One Message: in order to give a motivational speech that will resound among your staff, it is best to stick to just one message, not multiple messages. For instance, is your goal to bolster morale? To motivate your employees to reach a sales goal? To find new referral sources? The purpose of your feel-good speech – your thesis – should be clear in your mind so you can convey it clearly to your employees.

6. Craft a Mantra: if possible, develop a catchy mantra for your message; that is a unifying statement of purpose. If it sounds good, it probably is good. You can go on to repeat it a couple of times during your speak since repetition is an effective oratory technique. (If your mantra is particularly pitchy – “We See Opportunities, Not Problems” “Be All In”– it could serve as the subject line to follow-up emails and supply the cornerstone for an internal marketing campaign, too.)

7. Give your employees a reason to feel good: in order to make your employees feel good, you should always encourage them. Your mantra should take you halfway around this curve; articulating your support through encouragement will fuel the other half. Fortify them and even flatter them, but stop just short of being solicitous.

8. Be succinct but be prepared: you should draw inspiration from some of the greatest speeches ever given. Some of them include John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address and Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. The former took about 14 minutes to deliver and the latter took only 3 minutes. The point is that you don’t need a very long speech in order to get your idea across. Try to be brief yet articulate.

9. Delivery Style: Whether you are consoling the employees about recent failures or motivating them to overcome future challenges, your delivery must be personal, persuasive and passionate. You should try your best to talk with the employees, not at them.

Use your natural style of talking. For instance, don’t change your voice to sound different or use big words that you would not normally use. If you attempt to change your delivery style, your employees will notice and you will lose credibility.

A motivational speech is an emotional appeal, so your presentation must be made with passion. If your speech is addressing a morale problem, avoid blaming anyone for the problem. Instead, emphasize that everyone can be part of the solution.

10. Start strong and finish strong: people have always found the opening and conclusion of a speech to be the most difficult, yet it has been found that it tends to work better when the two are linked together. (In other words, if you open with a story, close by returning to a point in that story.)

Conclusions are an especially powerful part of a motivational speech because they give you an opportunity to make a lasting impression in the mind of your employees. They also encourage applause; get people talking right on the spot and, incite an immediate, feel-good emotion that you were determined to spawn in the first place.

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How to deliver a motivational speech to employees.

"Tell them what you're going to say, say it, then tell them what you told them" is the well-worn advice for writing and delivering a speech . If you want to motivate your employees, however, you need to put heart into the preparation and delivery. Whether you are bolstering employee morale because of a poor quarter or challenging them to reach new heights, your motivating speech can achieve its ends if it is well-crafted and delivered.

Planning Your Speech

Think about some of the greatest motivational speeches from the past, from Winston Churchill rallying the British against Hitler to JFK's challenge to Americans to do more for their country, these speakers employed a call-for-action from their audiences. Watch famous speeches on YouTube to get a sense of the speakers' cadence, choice of words and delivery. Also, take note of how the speakers used certain words. Martin Luther King repeated "I have a dream" to emphasize his points. President Kennedy offered a balance in his "Ask not ..." passage. Notice that all great speakers use short phrases in repetition to drive their points home and keep the audience engaged.

Monroe's Motivated Sequence

One effective format for a motivational speech is Monroe's Motivated Sequence, a five-step model that can be adapted to fit almost any situation. For example, capture your employees' attention with a riveting statistic and convince them that there is a need to address the statistical problem, then demonstrate that there is a solution to the problem. Paint a visual picture of what happens if the problem is solved, such as higher sales and more job security for everyone. Then paint a picture of what happens if it is not solved, such as a need to cut costs and reduce payroll. Conclude the speech by challenging your employees to take action to solve the problem.

Writing Tips

Write the first draft of your speech quickly. Do not worry about grammar, spelling or word choice – you just want to record your ideas. Walk away from it for at least a day if you can. After that, edit your draft for content, organization and language. Be sure that the thoughts you want to convey are expressed in a logical sequence and in language that is straightforward and not laced with jargon. Ideally, you will deliver the speech without reading it. If there are passages where the wording is critical, such as policy or legal issues, be prepared to explain them in layman's terms.

Delivery Style

Whether you are consoling the employees about recent failures or preparing them to embrace future challenges, your delivery must be personal, persuasive and passionate. Talk with the employees, not at them. Use your natural style of talking. Don't change your voice or use words you wouldn't normally use. If you attempt to change your delivery style, your employees will notice and you will lose credibility. A motivational speech is an emotional appeal, so your presentation must be made with passion. If your speech is addressing a morale problem, avoid blaming anyone for the problem. Instead, emphasize that everyone can be part of the solution.

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Thomas Metcalf has worked as an economist, stockbroker and technology salesman. A writer since 1997, he has written a monthly column for "Life Association News," authored several books and contributed to national publications such as the History Channel's "HISTORY Magazine." Metcalf holds a master's degree in economics from Tufts University.

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How to Give a Feel-Good Speech to Your Employees

As a small business owner, you're sensitive to signs of employee unrest. The signs might be there in the quality of their work: good, but not up to their usual standards. Or the signs might be evident in the stacks of prospects sitting on their desks. Why are those prospects sitting on their desks? Or – sometimes worst of all – maybe you detect the signs in the dispirited tenor of the comments you overhear in the hallway.

What ever the signs are registering on your radar, you suspect that it's time to "rally the troops" with a feel-good speech. Call it a "pep talk," if you like, because for many small business owners, the notion of making a "speech" sounds too intimidating. Either way, you know it's smart to plan your remarks ahead of time, so organize your thoughts and invigorate your employees with these seven can't-miss tips:

Plan Your "Stage"

You don't need to settle this issue right now, but you should recognize at the outset that where you deliver your talk could be nearly as important as what you say. Should you notify the employees via email, requesting their presence in a conference room at a certain time and date? Or, for dramatic effect, should you "lock up shop" early one day and make a "spontaneous" presentation? (They'll think it's spontaneous, but you'll know better.) Many business owners can point with pride to some historical marker that holds significance to their company. It could do more than serve as a dramatic stage; it could send an implicit message, too.

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Definition of a swot analysis, examples of organization communication breakdown, how to give a speech to your employee, what does an exclamation mean in business, wording for a thank-you note to someone who has served as a president of an organization, think like a performer.

Like many small business owners, you're probably outgoing and personable, and you should burnish these skills during your presentation. It may not be your style to jump on top of a table any more than it would be to gather your employees in a "circle of unity." Be yourself, be authentic, but think about adding a dramatic touch to your talk, just as a performer would. At the very least, your employees should feel good about the fact that you put thought into making your speech memorable.

Pick One Message

Put the greatest amount of thought into your overriding message. And you should reduce it to just that: one message, not multiple messages. Is your goal to bolster morale? To motivate your employees to reach a sales goal? To find new referral sources? The purpose of your feel-good speech – your thesis – should be clear in your mind so you can convey it clearly to your employees.

Craft a Mantra

Now develop a mantra for this message: a unifying statement of purpose. If it sounds good, it probably is good. Moreover, it's probably worth repeating several times during your speech since repetition is an effective oratory technique.

If your mantra is particularly pithy – "We See Opportunities, Not Problems" or "Be All In" – it could serve as the subject line to follow-up emails and supply the cornerstone for an internal marketing campaign, too.

Give Them Reason to Feel Good

Giving employees reason to feel good often comes down to one blissfully simple tactic: encouragement. Your mantra should take you halfway around this curve; articulating your support through encouragement will fuel the other half. Fortify them and even flatter them, but stop just short of being solicitous.

You Can Be Brief, but Be Prepared

Draw inspiration – and relief – from some of the speeches that are regularly rated as the "greatest" of all time: John F. Kennedy's inaugural address and Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The former took about 14 minutes to deliver and the the latter took only 3 minutes. (George Washington may hold the record for being the speediest public speaker with his second inaugural address; it was only 135 words.) The point is this: you don't have to be a long-winded wonder. Be brief, but by all means, prepare, even if you toss your notes aside during your speech. At least, they'll be there if you need them.

Open Strong, Close Stronger

Writers and public speakers have always debated the significance (and the difficulty) of crafting the introduction and conclusion, which often work best when the two are linked together. In other words, if you open with a story, close by returning to a point in that story. Conclusions have the edge in public speaking, since they portend such opportunity: they can leave a lasting impression; encourage applause; get people talking right on the spot and, in your case, incite an immediate, feel-good emotion that you were determined to spawn in the first place.

• American Express: 7 Tips for Giving a Killer Speech
• Inc.: 7 Steps to an Inspiring and Memorable Speech
• University of North Carolina: The Writing Center: Speeches
• University of Pittsburgh: Using Visual Aids
• Play upbeat music at the beginning and end of the speech to get the crowd excited.
• Be sincere and not fake. People will only feel good if they believe your sincerity.

Mary Wroblewski earned a master's degree with high honors in communications and has worked as a reporter and editor in two Chicago newsrooms. She worked alongside a noted Chicago area nutritionist and holistic healthcare adviser whose groundbreaking work focuses on the “whole” patient rather than focusing on one ailment or problem to the exclusion of everything else. Mary writes extensively about healthy eating and healthy living topics.

15 Inspirational Speeches to Share with Your Team

These days, you might be feeling on the edge of burnout. Finding the time and mental energy to get everything done is simply overwhelming.

Whether you’re managing fine or barely holding on, this is a great time to reflect on your well-being and build habits that bring you long-term success.

If you’re ready to take it to the next level and make 2021 your year, start by inspiring yourself and your team with a mind-expanding talk. We’ve put together 15 inspirational speeches ranging from educational to motivational that are sure to get you ready to grow yourself in 2021.

1. Are you an ideal team player?-  Patrick Lencioni

Best-selling author and team dysfunction expert Patrick Lencioni breaks down the questions every member of your team can ask themselves to improve their teamwork.

2. Developing a Growth Mindset-  Carol Dweck

Developing a growth mindset is critical for successful advancement in life. Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck explains why growth mindsets are so powerful and how to develop one in this Ted Talk classic.

3. The Art of Stress-Free Productivity – David Allen

Productivity guru David Allen explains his simple method for ensuring you get things done. This is a must-watch for any team struggling with procrastination and prioritization.

4. The power of vulnerability-  Dr. Brené Brown

Pioneering vulnerability researcher Brené Brown shares her findings on the impact embracing emotional transparency can have on teams and relationships. This is a must-watch for any team looking to improve their communication and teamwork.

5. The 3 Most Important Things for Every Entrepreneur-  Verne Harnish

Verne Harnish, EO Founder and best-selling author of Scaling Up , is a popular speaker at business conferences around the world, as well as the host of his own . His message resonates with entrepreneurs and business leaders with entrepreneurial mindsets.

6. These Are Not Unprecedented Times – Simon Sinek

Delivered over Zoom at the start of the pandemic, popular speaker Simon Sinek gives an optimistic message for anyone stuck in the dark tunnel of coronavirus quarantines and lockdowns. The Start with Why  Author’s message also resonates with those emerging from the tunnel and motivating themselves for what’s ahead.

7. The Science of Habits – Marco Badwel

Harvard researcher Marco Badwel shares the secrets of forming successful habits as explained by science. If you or you’re team is trying to adopt a new habit, this talk is for you.

8. The 5 hindrances to self-mastery – Master Shi Heng Yi

Shaolin Master Shi Heng Yi shares lessons for a fulfilling life and from his time as a traditionally educated monk living in the west. “The universal law of being successful and happy at the same time means finding the balance”, says master Yi.

9. What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness-  Robert Waldinger

Looking to motivate your team to find fulfillment in their work-life harmony? Look no further than this classic ted talk on the research of what’s important to life-long happiness.

10. The habits of happiness-  Matthieu Ricard

Former molecular biologist and Buddhist monk Matthieu Ricard explains how to develop habits of well-being to generate a true sense of serenity and fulfillment. This is a great watch for anyone working to find balance and peace in their lives.

11. Oprah Winfrey- Spelman College Commencement Address 2012

Among the greatest commencement addresses ever, Oprah Winfrey’s 2012 speech lays out a motivational path to success anyone can connect with.

12. 2005 Stanford Commencement Address-  Steve Jobs

This classic speech by the famous Apple CEO makes a lasting impact on all that listen to it. Steve Jobs pushes the listener to aim high with their goals and take advantage of every setback.

13. Darkest Hour (2017) – We Shall Fight on the Beaches Scene

Nothing stirs the soul like Sir Winston Churchill’s timeless words that roused a nation to arms against a great evil. During tough times, a little cinematic and historic motivation may rouse your team.

14. A Pep Talk from Kid President to You

If you’re looking for a feel-good pick-me-up, look no further than this viral classic from Kid President.

15. Van Down By The River – Saturday Night Live

When you’re sick and tired of motivational speeches, watch the greatest parody of motivational speakers ever made. Chris Farley gives a legendary performance in this video that is just to delight and inspire change.

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Never Give up on Your Dream, Motivational Speeches

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How To Give a Team Motivational Speech to Boost Morale

Few leaders are exceptionally good at rallying the troops. They want results, but their words don't inspire action. 

A team motivational speech will temporarily inspire teams. Yet, As stress continues to pile up back at work, the motivation will eventually fade. However, if a speech motivates action, it builds momentum that builds on itself.

What makes any speech motivating is positive energy and enthusiasm. The speaker is lending their buoyant, positive attitude to lift the group.

Enthusiasm is contagious. 

WE ALL CRAVE MOTIVATION

People don't just work for a paycheck; they want to feel purpose and meaning. The need for motivation is about balance. Throughout the day, teams feel bombarded by problems (customer complaints, cutbacks, limited resources); this weighs them down. Over time, negativity can surround our problems and be a drag on morale. Left unmonitored, this workplace can turn toxic. 

Uplifting, motivational moments serve to buffer negativity. However, motivation needs to be regular and consistent to have a lasting impact. Workplaces that suffer from low morale don't have enough positive messages to keep people engaged and happy. 

Leaders who deliver regular team motivational speeches ( one on one and as a group) will keep spirits high. Focus the message on group accomplishment, the overall significance and meaning of the work, and moments to be proud. Overall, bringing up a spirit of enthusiasm. 

A leader's most significant role is to inspire hope in others. There is no better way to do this than by motivating the troops with an inspirational speech. Below are some ideas on how to accomplish this heightened sense of hope and inspiration. 

Remember, every motivational speech should take the audience from where they are now, to a new, better reality. 

Start writing a motivational speech by taking your audience's current situation and comparing it to a better future. Best selling author and keynote speaker coach, Nancy Duarte suggests, a great speaker will make the gap between the two realities as dramatic as possible.

Throughout the talk, take people from the present to the future, and from the problem to the solution. The motivational speech should continue to be an ebb and flow from what is and what could be.

If you are trying to convince people that a new policy is good, clearly outline how we work now (and all the inefficiencies) and how down the road ( once all the kinks are worked out), this will improve our work situation. Also, appreciate people for the work and effort they put in. 

Finally, every speech should end with a call to action that cements in the new, better reality.

THREE TYPES OF PERSUASION TO USE IN YOUR TEAM MOTIVATIONAL SPEECH

Reporting facts and information is only one part of creating a compelling motivational speech. A successful keynote speaker has to strike a balance between analytical and emotional content.

Aristotle argued that to persuade, we must employ three types of argument: ethical appeal( ethos), emotional appeal(pathos), and logos(logical appeal).

Consider each element below as you craft a team motivational speech to persuade:

Ethical persuasion

By sharing your values, experience, and goals, you build credibility with an audience.

The audience will feel connected to you when they appreciate you share similar values.

Logical persuasion

Develop a compelling message supported by a structure that logically supports your premise. State a claim and provide evidence to support it.

Emotional appeal

Appeal to people's feelings by weaving stories and experiences evoking pain or pleasure. Emotional connection with the audience is critical to persuade. Funny keynote speakers use humor to engage emotion, while inspirational speakers use motivational stories to engage passion.

 I've seen a lot of guest speakers focus entirely on facts at the expense of emotion and ethical persuasion. 

Team Motivational Speech Activities

Take a meeting from good to great or from average to amazing, with interactive activities to reinforce ideas and solidify engagement.

I was a funny keynote speaker for a healthcare organization recently where the program planner organized some fun, lively games to engage the crowd. Audience participation and interaction kept people engaged and involved in the meeting.

Here are a couple of activities the guest speaker facilitated:

The Telephone. 

In this team motivational speech activity, start a message at the beginning of a row and have it be verbally communicated progressively down the row to the last person. Once it hits the final person in the row, have them compare the final information with the original message.  Peels of laughter result as people find the message is drastically different as it passes down the line.

Tie the lesson to how messages get distorted, misinterpreted, and altered as they move through different people.

To further amplify the activity, tie the messages to content reinforced in the meeting.

Innovation builders. 

Organize teams around Tables of 6 to 8 people. Each table gets a bag of marshmallows and a bag of straight pretzels. Instruct teams to build something innovative, preferably related to the meeting theme.  Give the groups 5 minutes to make something when time is up, vote on the most innovative design.

A variation to the motivational speech activity is to instruct groups to build the highest freestanding structure.

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Motivational Speech from CEO to Employees

Inspiring people and keeping them motivated is one of the most important attributes of a leader. It’s not always easy to motivate your employees. But as a leader, it’s your job to do so—and you should never give up on that mission. Here are some tips for giving the best motivational speech as a CEO to employees for inspiring people.

3 Tips to write the best Motivational Speech from CEO to Employees

If you’re here, you’re probably looking for motivation or preparing to inspire your team on a big day. Let’s look at some of the influential and persuasive tools used by these CEOs.

1. Inspire your team members by acknowledging and celebrating wins, big and small.

• It helps to establish a culture where everyone who works for your company feels like they are part of something bigger than themselves.
• If a project succeeds, it’s important to recognize that success and give credit where credit is due. Celebrate small wins along with big ones.
• Be sure to recognize any employee who goes above and beyond their job description or makes an effort to help others out of the kindness of their heart.

2. Building a culture of recognition is an effective means of motivating employees to regularly exceed their goals.

• Recognition is a powerful motivator. It’s not just about patting someone on the back, but rather it involves letting people know that their efforts are valued.
• In order for recognition to be effective, it should be done in a public way, in a timely fashion, and be meaningful. Use your speech to recognize the efforts of your employees.

3. Inject wit, humor, and empathy into your words to build trust, create bonds, repair relationships, and create joy in the workplace.

• As you know, humor is a great way to connect with people . It builds trust, creates bonds, repairs relationships, and creates joy in the workplace.
• It can also motivate your employees and make them feel good about themselves. And if you want to make someone feel special or important—or even just lighten the mood at a tense moment—a joke is often just what’s needed!
• Telling personal stories also works wonders.

Best CEO speeches to employees

Great CEOs rely on various communication tools to inspire their teams and influence others to take action. Here are some of the CEOs who have successfully found the courage to show their true selves through inspirational speeches added to their presentations.

1. Howard Schultz:

If you go and ask any presentation expert about who, according to them, is one of the best storytelling executives in the business currently, they’ll probably say former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz.

• Schultz often returned to his story about how he rose from rags to riches, from being a child of often unemployed parents in Brooklyn public housing to becoming the CEO of the world’s most successful coffeehouse chain. He’d use the story as a starting point to describe the history and mission of Starbucks and to explain many decisions he made regarding the company.
• He mentioned in his speeches how he took inspiration from his father , who was injured and unable to work, which gave him the urge to launch a company that took care of its workers and provided them with benefits, like insurance and adequate time-off.
• By framing his business goals in a personal story about his values , Schultz made his corporate mission understandable and described his strategic decisions in a way that made sense to anyone.
• Check his complete speech here .

I love Starbucks. Many of you do, too. We all have a stake in our future. It is something we all share. And this serves as an invitation to come build it. Howard Schultz:

2. Sheryl Sandberg:

Not everyone is comfortable sharing their stories from their struggling period, just like Sheryl Sandberg once felt reluctant to share her tale of tragedy in her public speeches.

• Today, the Facebook COO masterfully reveals deeply personal stories in her talks, and these make her messages powerful and brings hope.
• One of Sandberg’s most effective uses of personal storytelling happened during her 2016 UC Berkeley commencement speech after tragically and suddenly losing her husband Dave Goldberg in 2015. Sandberg chose not to mourn but to harness that painful tragedy to deliver a talk that was profoundly affecting and inspiring. She described her experience of losing her husband, then explained how she was able to rise from her unbearable grief into a stronger, more resilient person.

When life sucks you under, you can kick against the bottom, break the surface, and breathe again…you can choose joy and meaning.” Sheryl Sandberg:

Sandberg’s exhortation was powerful and uplifting despite its origin in a tragedy. She figured out how to unlock the power of a personal setback story for a presentation message that fosters endurance and drives the forward movement.

3. Rowan Trollope:

Five9 CEO Rowan Trollope never fails to use firsthand anecdotes in his speeches. These stories make him feel relatable rather than like an untouchable executive who seems significantly snobbish and highly professional, not having a moment to listen to his employees’ needs and impulses.

• As a leading SVP at Cisco, he delivered the 2016 Cisco Keynote at Enterprise Connect. He opened the speech with the story of his first experience with weightlessness at the “Zero-G Experience” when his instructor warned him he would laugh when he was finally weightless (all people do), he resolved to remain stoic. However, once he got up into the air and floated, he burst out laughing uncontrollably—reminding him that he was human, just like everyone who’d been weightless before him (even professional astronauts).
• Trollope’s story not only showed his humanity but also endeared him to the audience , giving him an understandable jumping-off point to explain to listeners what he wanted to do with Cisco products. He wanted to create products and devices that delighted users, whether they were professionals in the industry or just picking up the technology for the first time.

Like his weightlessness story, most of Trollope’s tales are entertaining and full of humility. They work to demonstrate his “humanness”—taking him down off any “executive pedestal” and making him approachable and accessible. This results in a message that feels relevant and understandable to everyone listening. Read Trollope’s complete speech and be inspired.

“Organizations are spending $275B a year as an industry to deliver an experience that a lot of times, most people don’t like. That feels like an opportunity to me.”  Rowan Trollope

Motivation is something that everyone needs, and it’s up to you as a leader to inspire your employees. If you want people to surround themselves with positive energy every day, then you have to do the same for them. It’s easy for leaders to get caught up in their own personal issues and forget about the people who rely on them for support. Remember: it’s all about building relationships with others because without them, what would we have?

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10 Motivational Speeches That Will Inspire You to Take Action Today

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Whether you’re looking to increase team productivity or turn your daydreams into a reality, motivation is key. But, in the day-to-day of working life, it’s easy to lose sight of end goals and become distracted. Thankfully, the wise words of entrepreneurs, writers, and fictional characters can offer a reinvigorating perspective. The following motivational speeches may give you the push you need to reach your full potential.

1. Steve Jobs: How to Live Before You Die (2005)

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.”

In this commencement address, the CEO and co-founder of Apple Inc. shared one of the keys to his success: love. His love for the work he did kept him excited about going to work every day and working toward new goals. Often, there is a big difference between what you want versus what other people want for you . Discovering what you’re passionate about, and working toward it with achievable goals , will lead you to success and satisfaction. This is why it is our staff’s number one pick for motivational speeches that will inspire you to take action today. 

2. Ellie (Jodie Foster) Meets An Alien In  Contact  (1997)

“You’re an interesting species, an interesting mix. You are capable of such beautiful dreams, and such horrible nightmares. You feel so lost, so cut off, so alone. Only you’re not. See, in all our searching, the only thing that we’ve found that makes the emptiness bearable… is each other.”

While this Sci-Fi classic might seem removed from reality, it offers uplifting advice for the workplace and beyond. In this scene, Ellie finally makes contact with an alien who offers insight into the human condition and the larger universe. To apply the alien’s words to the workplace, think of the power of teamwork. Establishing a diverse and talented team can improve employee happiness and performance. For example, burnout is a common problem at companies. Sharing the workload,  and knowing you can rely on team members and managers for support, can re-motivate employees. When the going gets tough, it’s a comfort to know you’re not alone. 

3. Timo’s (Rick Gonzales) Answer In Coach Carter (2005)

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It’s not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

In this scene, Timo, a member of the basketball team central to the movie, responds to the question the coach asks throughout the movie: “What is your greatest fear?” Timo’s words touch on the importance of self-efficacy. By believing in yourself, you can deepen your interest and commitment to a given task, and recover faster from setbacks . If you lead a team or company, others will soon be influenced by your can-do attitude. So, stop fearing your own power and shine.

4. Chris (Will Smith) Gives His Son Advice In the Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

“Don’t ever let someone tell you, you can’t do something. Not even me. You got a dream, you got to protect it. People can’t do something themselves, they want to tell you you can’t do it. You want something, go get it. Period.”

In a world full of naysayers, it’s easy to become discouraged. In this scene from the heart-warming film, Chris offers his son priceless advice: to pursue his dreams mercilessly, without letting other peoples’ ideas of him get in the way. While this motivational speech is noble and beautiful, you might find it challenging to apply to your own life. Here’s where building a strategic plan — with short- and long-term goals— can make pursuing your dreams concrete. With a clear and concise vision for the future, you can put these words into action.

5. Rosalinde Torres: What it Takes to be a Great Leader

“So what makes a great leader in the 21st century? I’ve met many, and they stand out. They are women and men who are preparing themselves not for the comfortable predictability of yesterday but also for the realities of today and all of those unknown possibilities of tomorrow.”

Rosalinde Torres asserts that exceptional leaders are attuned to the world around them. They pay attention to the latest trends in their field and aren’t afraid to abandon tried and true practices for ones that are the future. Basically, she’s advising the opposite of that popular saying, “Keep your head down.” Because, if you do that, you’ll end up reacting to the future instead of making it. Further, you won’t benefit from a broadened perspective that includes different cultures, industries, and readings. Ask yourself, “When is the last time I looked around me and toward the future?” This is the start of great leadership.

6. John Keating’s (Robin Williams) Motivational Speech About Seizing the Day From Dead Poets Society (1989)

​​” Because you see gentlemen, these boys are now fertilizing daffodils. But if you listen real close, you can hear them whisper their legacy to you. Go on, lean in. Listen, you hear it? – – Carpe – – hear it? – – Carpe, carpe diem, seize the day boys, make your lives extraordinary.”

John Keating motivates his students with a simple sentiment— seize the day. It might seem like a cliché, but it’s a useful sentiment for those stuck in careers they don’t like or struggling to achieve their next milestone. Most working people will spend around 8 hours a day at the office; that’s a lot of time to spend on something you dislike. So, if you’re feeling uninspired or sick of your career, take Mr. Keating’s advice and don’t waste any more time. What are your strengths and weaknesses and how can your harness them into a fulfilling career?

7. Jim Carrey: Commencement Motivational Speech at Maharishi University of Management (2014)

“When I was about 28, after a decade as a professional comedian, I realized one night in LA that the purpose of my life had always been to free people from concern, just like my dad. And when I realized this, I dubbed my new devotion the Church of Freedom From Concern, the Church of FFC. And I dedicated myself to that ministry. What’s yours? How will you serve the world? What did they need that your talent can provide? That’s all you have to figure out.”

The comedian’s advice for a successful and rewarding life is simple: find how you want to serve the world, and pursue it. While it may take years of exploring to find your talent, sometimes it can be as simple as stepping back and reflecting on those moments when you felt yourself excelling and having an impact on others. Finding your calling might seem overwhelming, but asking yourself what the world needs that you can provide will surely set things in motion. 

8. Rocky’s (Sylvester Stallone) Motivational Speech to His Son In Rocky Balboa  (2006)

“Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a very mean and nasty place, and I don’t care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done!”

Rocky’s motivational speech is all about not letting failure define you. This is good advice, no matter your industry. In 2019, 90% of startups failed . But, many successful business people, including Bill Gates and Walt Disney, failed before they succeeded. So, even if the odds are against your, it doesn’t helo to fixate on the negative. In fact, a positive attitude can improve mental and physical health , which will improve your performance in the workplace.

9. Dan Pink: The Puzzle of Motivation (2009)

“There is a mismatch between what science knows and what business does. Here is what science knows. One: Those 20th century rewards, those motivators we think are a natural part of business, do work, but only in a surprisingly narrow band of circumstances. Two: Those if-then rewards often destroy creativity. Three: The secret to high performance isn’t rewards and punishments, but that unseen intrinsic drive– the drive to do things for their own sake. The drive to do things cause they matter.”

There is an outdated belief that rewards and punishments are vital to improving employee performance. Pink argues that intrinsic drive— doing things because of internal satisfaction as opposed to external factors—is the real secret to high performance. So, whether you’re a manager or a new employee, consider why your work matters. Aside from your salary, what gets you to work every day? If these questions are hard to answer, you might need to incorporate or seek out a more creative approach. Pink gives the example of companies giving employees flexible schedules, where they can use their time as they want to accomplish set tasks. The schedule allows for more creativity and independence, and thus improves employee performance.

10. Coach Tony D’Amato’s (Al Pacino) Motivational Speech In Any Given Sunday (1999)

“I’ll tell you this, in any fight it’s the guy whose willing to die whose gonna win that inch. And I know, if I’m gonna have any life anymore it’s because I’m still willing to fight and die for that inch, because that’s what living is, the six inches in front of your face. Now I can’t make you do it. You’ve got to look at the guy next to you, look into his eyes. Now I think you going to see a guy who will go that inch with you. Your gonna see a guy who will sacrifice himself for this team because he knows when it comes down to it your gonna do the same for him.”

This emotional scene drives home an important point: There is no “i” in team. Both entrepreneurs and executives who work their way up the corporate ladder know that they won’t achieve success all on their own. Attracting and retaining exceptional team members is the foundation of any lasting business. So, think about the skills you’re looking for in an employee and implement a process that’ll allow you to root out those people who will go the extra inch for you. If you’re not in a leadership position, think about the skills that will make you an invaluable hire. 

The Bottom Line on Motivational Speeches

No matter what industry you’re in, you can harness the wisdom of real and fictional characters to achieve your wildest dreams. So, get out there, explore your interests, make connections, and create a fulfilling career.

Related Readings on Motivation

• Four Basic Motivations of Employees
• Extrinsic Motivation in the Office
• The Value of Intrinsic Motivation on Employees
• 25 Powerful Leadership Quotes That Will Motivate You

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How To Write a Team Motivation Speech (With Template and Example)

Having a motivated and effective team is a key factor in any successful organization. Keeping team morale high and ensuring that everyone is working towards a common goal is essential for any team to reach its full potential. A team motivation speech can be a great way to ensure your entire team is focused and energized. Not only does it set the tone for the day, but it also reminds everyone why their work is important and how it fits into the greater mission of the organization. A team motivation speech can also be an excellent way to show appreciation for the hard work of your colleagues. By recognizing their accomplishments and acknowledging the dedication of your team members, you can create a more positive work environment, leading to increased morale and improved job performance. A team motivation speech should be delivered with a professional tone that expresses a genuine appreciation for the efforts of your team. Doing so will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that everyone is motivated and inspired to reach the common goals.

Why deliver a team motivation speech?

A manager or business might give a motivational speech for a number of reasons, including:

What is a team motivation speech?

Managers and executives deliver team motivation speeches to their staff in order to inspire and uplift them. Team motivation speeches are frequently used by managers to keep employees concentrated on a current task or project and ensure its success. The length of speeches can vary, and managers may give them to staff in a very informal setting, such as just before the workday begins, or they may arrange a meeting where they can effectively communicate their message.

How to write a team motivation speech

Here is a list of the steps to writing an effective speech to motivate your team:

1. Acknowledge their hard work

It’s crucial to acknowledge the effort employees have already put in and how it’s contributed to their success when beginning a motivational speech. It’s also advantageous to list any issues or difficulties they’ve encountered, along with the steps they took to come up with solutions. An example of what a manager might say to inspire the team is:

“I know you’ve had a lot of challenges in the last few weeks, like personnel changes and client demands, but you’ve done an outstanding job keeping up and communicating with each other,” the speaker said. “.

2. Remind them of project goals

Employees can better understand why they are working hard and concentrate on the long-term advantages of their productivity by being reminded of their current goals, whether for a project or the entire company. Mention the smaller goals the team has completed and how they fit into the overall objective. For example, a manager might say:

“Since the project began two months ago, we’ve adhered to a specific action plan and accomplished three of our five smaller objectives. Our anticipated completion date has been pushed back by three days as a result of those accomplished goals. “.

3. Discuss successes

Discussing the team’s accomplishments and how they have benefited the business can help show how important the team is to the success of the enterprise. When highlighting accomplishments, it is advantageous to focus on specific people and the decisions or actions they took that benefited the business or a significant project. Publicly praising workers can both inspire them to keep up their good work and inspire other workers to put in even more effort in order to receive public recognition.

4. List whats left to be done

Finally, it’s crucial to mention any significant tasks or assignments that staff members must complete in order to achieve a primary goal or objective when concluding the speech. It’s crucial for managers to motivate staff members and instill confidence in their abilities to complete the remaining tasks after outlining what needs to be done. For instance, a manager might say these words as he wraps up his speech:

I recognize that there is still work to be done, but with our combined efforts and the skills you have already shown, we will be able to complete it quickly and effectively. “.

Times to deliver a team motivation speech

It’s crucial to understand when to give a team motivational speech. Some of those times can include:

Tips for writing a team motivation speech

Here are some more pointers for creating a potent speech to motivate your team:

Acknowledge strengths

When giving a team motivation speech, it’s beneficial to highlight the employees’ top strengths. It’s advantageous to talk about how employees have enhanced or expanded their skills and expertise as you highlight their strengths. Employee motivation can be boosted by letting them know that you’ve noticed their growth and development.

Tell a story

It’s crucial to include a story in your motivational speech because it improves the presentation’s natural flow and makes it more engaging. Having a clear beginning, middle, and end for your speech’s story will make it easier for the audience to follow. As an illustration, the opening of your speech might discuss significant setbacks a project experienced, the middle might focus on how the team overcame those setbacks, and the conclusion might discuss new project setbacks and how the team can overcome them once more.

Practice and refine

To make the speech as effective as possible, it is beneficial to practice, review, and edit it before delivering it. If you’re reviewing the speech, think about having friends or family listen to it and provide feedback. You can determine whether any portions of the speech require revisions or additions to help them catch the attention of your employees by having family or friends listen.

Incorporate pauses

Employing pauses while delivering the speech can help the audience retain the information and encourage them to listen for more. Additionally, it can assist you in underscoring or emphasizing key points in the presentation. When you practice, think about placing pauses in various places and ask friends and family if they find their placement to be effective.

Team motivation speech template

A good team motivation speech template is provided below:

[ Address the team or group of employees ] ,

You have made significant contributions to this business/department/team/project over the past [increment of time]. [Discuss and commend the team’s efforts, as well as any significant difficulties or obstacles they overcame]

It’s crucial to keep in mind the project’s importance as we get closer to finishing it. [Include the projects’ goals and how achieving them will benefit the business]

Now that the project is underway, we’ve already achieved some significant successes and some of its smaller goals, including [list the team’s accomplishments, highlighting particular members and their contributions to the project’s success]

There is still some work to be done before the project is finished, such as [list the key tasks or assignments that employees still need to complete], but I am confident that by working together, we can finish it quickly and provide our company/client/department with exceptional results.

Team motivation speech example

Here is an illustration of a team-motivation speech utilizing the example from above:

You’ve done a lot for this project over the past few months. You’ve completed our competitor analysis, created impressive marketing plans, and presented the client with original ideas. You put in the extra time and talked to each other to find solutions when the client rejected some of our proposals and we fell behind schedule.

It’s crucial to keep in mind why this project is so crucial as we get closer to finishing it. Gneiss Construction, our client, hired us to enhance their company’s marketing and expand their customer outreach. Our diligence will enable their family-run business to grow and prosper. If they are successful, our business will also be successful because they will pay us in full and spread the word about our superior services to other businesses.

Now, we’ve already achieved a number of the project’s smaller goals, such as getting the client’s approval for our marketing strategies and creating a potent campaign action plan. Although many people helped us achieve those successes, I’d like to recognize Arman’s and Jessica’s leadership, which allowed us to do so quickly and effectively.

There is still some work to be done before the project is finished, such as starting the campaign and analyzing consumer response, but I am confident that if we work together, we can finish it quickly and give our client excellent results.

The Power of Teamwork – Teamwork Motivational Video

How do you motivate your team speech?

• Acknowledge their hard work. …
• Remind them of project goals. …
• Discuss successes. …
• List what’s left to be done.

How do you motivate your team?

• Share your vision and set clear goals.
• Communicate with your staff.
• Encourage teamwork.
• A healthy office environment.
• Give positive feedback and reward your team.
• Provide opportunities for development.

How do you start a team speech?

Make a strong emotional statement at the beginning of your presentation speech by using words like “hate,” “love,” and “worst.” Say something like, “What I love about emperor penguins is that they know how to take a hit for the team, so when I give a speech on teamwork, I’ll start off with that.

What is the most inspiring speech?

Martin Luther King Jr. ‘s well-known “I Have a Dream Speech” from 1963 serves as a reminder that better days are always ahead. On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. arguably gave the most well-known and motivational speech in American history.

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Use These Employee Appreciation Speech Examples In 2024 To Show Your Team You Care

The simple act of saying “thank you” does wonders.

Yet sometimes, those two words alone don’t seem to suffice. Sometimes your team made such a difference, and your gratitude is so profound, that a pat on the back just isn’t enough.

Because appreciation is more than saying thank you . It’s about demonstrating that your team is truly seen and heard by thanking them for specific actions. It’s about showing that you understand and empathize with the struggles your team faces every day. And it’s about purpose too. True appreciation connects your team’s efforts back to a grand vision and mission.

According to Investopedia ,

“Appreciation is an increase in the value of an asset over time.”

So it’s time to diversify your portfolio of reliable tips and go-to words of wisdom for expressing your undying appreciation. After all, you diversify your portfolio of investments, and really, workplace appreciation is an investment.

Let’s set aside the standard definition of appreciation for a second and take a look at the financial definition.

In the workplace, appreciation increases the value of your most important assets—your employees—over time.

Here are some ways appreciation enhances employee relations:

• Appreciation makes employees stick around. In fact, statistics suggest that a lack of appreciation is the main driver of employee turnover , which costs companies an average of about $15,000 per worker .
• Appreciation reinforces employees’ understanding of their roles and expectations, which drives engagement and performance.
• Appreciation builds a strong company culture that is magnetic to both current and prospective employees.
• Appreciation might generate positive long-term mental effects for both the giver and the receiver.
• Appreciation motivates employees. One experiment showed that a few simple words of appreciation compelled employees to make more fundraising calls.

We searched through books, movies, songs, and even TED Talks to bring you 141 amazing motivational quotes for employees you’ll be proud to put in a Powerpoint, an intra-office meme or a foam board printing cutout! Find plenty of fantastic workplace quotes to motivate any team.

Some of the most successful entrepreneurs in American business built companies, and lasting legacies, by developing employees through the simple act of appreciation.

Charles Schwab, founder of the Charles Schwab Corporation, once said:

“I consider my ability to arouse enthusiasm among my people the greatest asset I possess, and the way to develop the best that is in a person is by appreciation and encouragement. There is nothing else that so kills the ambitions of a person as criticism from superiors. I never criticize anyone. I believe in giving a person incentive to work. So I am anxious to praise but loath to find fault. If I like anything, I am hearty in my appreciation and lavish in my praise.”

Boost your ability to arouse enthusiasm by learning how to deliver employee appreciation speeches that make an impact. Once you master the habits and rules below, sincere appreciation will flow from you like sweet poetry. Your employees are going to love it!

Page Contents (Click To Jump)

The Employee Appreciation Speech Checklist

Planning employee appreciation speeches can be fast and easy when you follow a go-to “recipe” that works every time. From a simple thank you to a heart felt work anniversary speech, it all has a template.

Maritz®studies human behavior and highlights relevant findings that could impact the workplace. They developed the Maritz Recognition Model to help everyone deliver the best appreciation possible. The model asserts that effective reward and recognition speech examples touch on three critical elements: the behavior, the effect, and the thank you.

Here’s a summary of the model, distilled into a checklist for your employee appreciation speeches:

• Talk about the behavior(s). While most employee appreciation speeches revolve around the vague acknowledgment of “hard word and dedication,” it’s best to call out specific actions and accomplishments so employees will know what they did well, feel proud, and get inspired to repeat the action. Relay an anecdote about one specific behavior to hook your audience and then expand the speech to cover everyone. You can even include appreciation stories from other managers or employees in your speech.
•  Talk about the effect(s) of the behavior(s). What positive effect did the employee behaviors have on your company’s mission? If you don’t have any statistics to share, simply discuss how you expect the behaviors to advance your mission.
•  Deliver the “thank you” with heartfelt emotion. Infusing speeches with emotion will help employees feel your appreciation in addition to hearing it. To pinpoint the emotional core of your speech, set the “speech” part aside and casually consider why you’re grateful for your employees. Write down everything that comes to mind. Which aspects made you tear up? Which gave you goosebumps? Follow those points to find the particular emotional way you want to deliver your “thank you” to the team .

Tips and tricks:

• Keep a gratitude journal (online or offline) . Record moments of workplace gratitude and employee acts you appreciate. This practice will make you feel good, and it also provides plenty of fodder for appreciation speeches or employee appreciation day .
• Make mini-speeches a habit. Try to deliver words of recognition to employees every single day. As you perfect small-scale appreciation speeches, the longer ones will also feel more natural.
• When speaking, pause frequently to let your words sink in.
• Making eye contact
• Controlling jittery gestures
• Acting out verbs
• Matching facial expression to words
• Moving around the stage
• Varied pace. Don’t drone on at the same pace. Speak quickly and then switch to speaking slowly.
• Varied volume. Raise your voice on key points and closings.

Employee Appreciation Speech Scripts

Build on these customizable scripts to deliver employee appreciation speeches and casual meeting shout-outs every chance you get. Each script follows the 3-step approach we discussed above. Once you get the hang of appreciation speech basics, you’ll be able to pull inspirational monologues from your hat at a moment’s notice.

Swipe the examples below, but remember to infuse each speech with your own unique perspectives, personality, and heartfelt emotions.

All-Purpose Appreciation Speech  

Greet your audience..

I feel so lucky to work with you all. In fact, [insert playful aside: e.g. My wife doesn’t understand how I don’t hate Mondays. It drives her nuts!]

Thanks to you, I feel lucky to come to work every day.

Talk about behaviors you appreciate.

Everyone here is [insert applicable team soft skills: e.g. positive, inspiring, creative, and intelligent ]. I’m constantly amazed by the incredible work you do.

Let’s just look at the past few months, for example. [Insert bullet points of specific accomplishments from every department].

• Finance launched an amazing new online payroll system.
• Business Development doubled their sales last quarter.
• Human Resources trained us all in emotional intelligence.

Talk about the effects of the behaviors.

These accomplishment aren’t just nice bullet points for my next presentation. Each department’s efforts has deep and lasting impacts on our business. [Explain the effects of each highlighted accomplishment].

• The new payroll system is going to save us at least $20,000 on staff hours and paper.
• Revenue from those doubled sales will go into our core investments, including a new training program .
• And I can already see the effects of that emotional intelligence training each time I’m in a meeting and a potential argument is resolved before it starts.

Say thank you.

I can’t thank you enough for everything you do for this company and for me. Knowing I have your support and dedication makes me a better, happier person both at work and at home.

Formal Appreciation Speech

Greet your audience by explaining why you were excited to come to work today..

I was not thrilled when my alarm went off this morning, but I must admit, I’m luckier than most people. As I got out of bed and thought about doing [insert daily workplace activities that inspire you], I felt excitement instead of dread. It’s an incredible feeling, looking forward to work every day, and for that, I have each and every one of you to thank.

Just last week, [insert specific anecdote: e.g. I remembered, ironically, that I forgot to create a real-time engagement plan for TECHLO’s giant conference next month. As you all know, they’re one of our biggest clients, so needless to say, I was panicking. Then I sit down for my one-on-one with MEGAN, worried that I didn’t even have time for our meeting, and what does she say? She wants to remind me that we committed to submit a promotional plan by the end of the week. She had some ideas for the TECHLO conference, so she went ahead and created a draft.]

[Insert the outcome of the anecdote: e.g. Her initiative dazzled me, and it saved my life! We met our deadline and also blew TECHLO away. In fact, they asked us to plan a similar initiative for their upcoming mid-year conference.]

[Insert a short thank-you paragraph tying everything together: e.g. And you know what, it was hard for me to pick just one example to discuss tonight. You all do so many things that blow me away every day. Thank you for everything. Thank you for making each day of work something we can all be proud of.]

Tip! Encourage your entire team to join in on the appreciation with CareCards ! This digital appreciation board allows you to recognize your colleague with a dedicated space full of personalized well wishes, thank-yous, and anything else you want to shout them out with! To explore Caroo’s CareCard program, take this 60-second tour !

Visionary Appreciation Speech

Greet your audience by explaining why you do what you do..

Here at [company name] we [insert core competency: e.g. build nonprofit websites], but we really [insert the big-picture outcome of your work: e.g. change the world by helping amazing nonprofits live up to their inspiring visions.]

I want to emphasize the “we” here. This company would be nothing without your work.

Talk about behaviors and explain how each works toward your mission.

Have you guys ever thought about that? How what you do [recap the big-picture outcome at your work: e.g. changes the world by helping amazing nonprofits live up to their inspiring visions]?

[Insert specific examples of recent work and highlight the associated outcomes: e.g. Let’s explore in terms of the websites we launched recently. I know every single person here played a role in developing each of these websites, and you should all be proud.]

• The launch of foodangel.org means that at least 500 homeless people in the greater metro area will eat dinner tonight.
• The launch of happyup.org means thousands of depressed teenagers will get mental health counseling.

Now if that’s not [recap the big-picture outcome], then I don’t know what is.

Thank you for joining me on the mission to [big-picture outcome]. With any other team, all we’re trying to do might just not be possible, but you all make me realize we can do anything together.

Casual Appreciation Speech

Greet your audience by discussing what upcoming work-related items you are most excited about..

I’ve been thinking nonstop about [insert upcoming initiative: e.g. our upcoming gallery opening]. This [initiative] is the direct result of your amazing work. To me, this [initiative] represents [insert what the initiative means to you: e.g. our true debut into the budding arts culture of our city.]

You’ve all been pulling out all the stops, [insert specific example: e.g. staying late, making 1,000 phone calls a day, and ironing out all the details.]

Because of your hard work, I’m absolutely confident the [initiative] will [insert key performance indicator: e.g. sell out on opening night.]  

Thank you, not just for making this [initiative] happen, but also for making the journey such a positive and rewarding experience.

Funny Appreciation Speech

Greet your audience by telling an inside joke..

I want to thank you all for the good times, especially [insert inside joke: e.g. that time we put a glitter bomb in Jeff’s office.]

Talk about behaviors you appreciate and highlight comical outcomes.

But seriously, you guys keep me sane. For example [insert comical examples: e.g.]:

• The Operations team handled the merger so beautifully, I only had to pull out half my hair.
• The Marketing team landed a new client, and now we can pay you all for another year.
• And thanks to the Web team’s redesign of our website, I actually know what we do here.

Talk about the real effects of the behaviors.

But for real for real, all your work this year has put us on a new level. [Insert outcomes: e.g. We have an amazing roster of clients, a growing staff, and an incredible strategic plan that makes me feel unqualified to work here.] You guys made all this happen.

So thank you. This is when I would usually tell a joke to deflect my emotions, but for once in my life, I actually don’t want to hide. I want you all to know how much I appreciate all you do.

That was hard; I’m going to sit down now.

Appreciation Speech for Employee of the Month

Greet your audience by giving a shout-out to the employee of the month..

Shout out to [insert employee’s name] for being such a reliable member of our team. Your work ethics and outstanding performance are an inspiration to all of us! Keep up the amazing work!

Talk about behaviors you appreciate in them and highlight their best traits.

It’s not only essential to work diligently, but it is likewise crucial to be kind while you’re at it–and you’ve done both wonderfully!

Talk about the effects of their behaviors on the success of the company.

You bring optimism, happiness, and an all-around positive attitude to this team.

Thank you bring you!

Appreciation Speech for Good Work

Greet your audience with a round of applause to thank them for their hard work..

You always put in 100% and we see it. Proud of you, team!

Talk about behaviors you appreciate in your team members.

You work diligently, you foster a positive team environment, and you achieve or exceed your goals. 

Talk about the effects of your team’s behaviors on the company.

Your dedication to the team is commendable, as is your readiness to do whatever needs to be done for the company – even if it’s not technically part of your job description. Thank you.

No matter the situation, you always rise to the occasion! Thank you for your unwavering dedication; it doesn’t go unnoticed.

People Also Ask These Questions:

Q: how can i show that i appreciate my employees .

• A: An appreciation speech is a great first step to showing your employees that you care. The SnackNation team also recommends pairing your words of appreciation with a thoughtful act or activity for employees to enjoy. We’ve researched, interviewed, and tested all the best peer-to-peer recognition platforms, office-wide games, celebration events, and personalized rewards to bring you the   top 39 recognition and appreciation ideas to start building a culture of acknowledgment in your office.

Q: What should I do after giving an appreciation speech? 

• A: In order to drive home the point of your employee appreciation speech, it can be effective to reward your employees for their excellent work. Rewards are a powerful tool used for employee engagement and appreciation. Recognizing your employees effectively is crucial for retaining top talent and keeping employees happy. To make your search easier, we sought out the top 121 creative ways that companies can reward their employees that you can easily implement at your office.

Q: Why should I give an employee appreciation speech? 

• A: Appreciation and employee motivation are intimately linked together. A simple gesture of an employee appreciation gift can have a positive effect on your company culture. When an employee is motivated to work they are more productive. For more ideas to motivate your team, we’ve interviewed leading employee recognition and engagement experts to curate a list of the 22 best tips here ! 

We hope adapting these tips and scripts will help you articulate the appreciation we know you already feel!

Free Download:   Download this entire list as a PDF . Easily save it on your computer for quick reference or print it for future team gatherings.

Employee Recognition & Appreciation Resources:

39 impactful employee appreciation & recognition ideas [updated], 12 effective tools & strategies to improve teamwork in the workplace, your employee referral program guide: the benefits, how-tos, incentives & tools, 21 unforgettable work anniversary ideas [updated], 15 ideas to revolutionize your employee of the month program, 16 awesome employee perks your team will love, 71 employee recognition quotes every manager should know, how to retain employees: 18 practical takeaways from 7 case studies, boost your employee recognition skills and words (templates included), about snacknation.

SnackNation is a healthy office snack delivery service that makes healthy snacking fun, life more productive, and workplaces awesome. We provide a monthly, curated selection of healthy snacks from the hottest, most innovative natural food brands in the industry, giving our members a hassle-free experience and delivering joy to their offices.

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10 Comments

great piece of work love it, great help, thanks.

great tips !!!!

Helpful piece. LAVISH MAYOR

Enjoy reading this. Nice work

Thank you. Very helpful tips.

This is the most helpful and practical article I have found for writing a Colleague Appreciation speech. The Funny Appreciation Speech section was written for me 🙂 Ashley Bell, you’re a rock star!

Very nice speech Well explanation of words And very helpful for work

Hi, Your notes are awesome. Thank you for the share.

Your article is very helpful. Thankyou :).

Your stuff is really awesome. Thankyou for sharing such nice information

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