Farewell speech template for leaving a job
Updated November 2, 2026 · Anthony Delmotte
In short. A farewell speech at work lasts one to three minutes, about 200 to 350 words. Thank your manager and colleagues by name, share one memory, say what you learned, and leave on a warm note, with no complaints and no burnt bridges.
The template
Replace everything in [brackets] before you read. Each paragraph becomes one card. 116 words as written, before you fill in the brackets.
Thank you all for being here, and for [the cake / the card / the kind words].
[Number] years ago, I joined [company] as [your first role]. I had no idea I’d [something you ended up doing].
I want to thank [manager], for [specific thing]. And [colleague], for [specific thing]. And the whole [team] for [what made working together good].
The moment I’ll remember is [one memory: a launch, a crisis, a funny day].
What I’m taking with me is [a lesson or habit you learned here].
I’m leaving to [what comes next, in one line], but I hope we stay in touch: [how to reach you].
Thank you, all of you. It’s been [one word].
How to make it yours
Gratitude only
Your last speech is remembered. Leave criticism for the exit interview.
Name a few people
Specific thanks to two or three people mean more than a list.
Keep it short
Two minutes is plenty; people want to come and say goodbye in person.
Leave a way to reach you
A sentence about staying in touch keeps the door open.