Thanksgiving Day speech
If you've been asked to give a Thanksgiving Day speech don't let the worry of it ruin your day. Thanksgiving is a day of celebration when everyone is relaxed and happy and that includes you.
Mention in your speech a little about the history of thanksgiving, about how it is a reminder to all of us to give thanks for our family, friends and food.
Give your thanksgiving day speech a beginning, a middle and an end and don't be so keen to get to the end that you rush the rest of your speech.
Make very good use of the pause. This gives you a chance to take a breath and think about what you're going to say next and it gives the listeners a chance to take in what you've just said.
Pick out the important words and make these stand out. You can find out how to do this
here.
For details of my DVD which shows you exercises and tips to speak clearly have a look at
this page.
Formal MealIf it's a formal meal it's likely that the guests will be sitting down to eat - probably at home or at a restaurant or hotel.
Giving a thanksgiving day speech in these circumstances is easier than an informal event because you can easily get the attention of the guests. When you deliver your thanksgiving speech you'll need to stand up so that everyone can see you.
It's probably best if you avoid any alcohol until after you've spoken - then feel free to indulge yourself.
Ideally your speech will be a shortish speech (people will be eager to eat and enjoy themselves and nobody ever complains because a speech is too short!) and it's very likely that everyone present will know each other very well. In this situation I suggest that you either memorise what you want to say or just have headings written on a piece of card.
If you choose to use card, don't feel as though you need to hide it when you speak. It's there for you to look at - so look at it! Don't write on both sides. If you need more than one side use two cards but number them. If you write on both sides you can guarantee that when you pick it up to start your speech you'll read the wrong side!!
Casual EventIf the event is more casual - a buffet style meal, nightclub or gathering at a friends house - you might have more trouble getting everyones attention.
They'll all be busy talking to each other in small groups. If this is the case make sure your speech isn't too long - if people get bored they'll start whispering to each other or they'll walk over to the food etc. Again, use cards if you feel it's necessary, but a few thank yous may be sufficient in this setting.
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