SpeechesWelcome speech for a chief guest
A ready speech for the host, at a school, college or office function. Use the short version when you have about a minute, and the full version when you have about three. Both are our own writing; change them freely.
Words in [square brackets] are for you to replace with your own names and details.
Short speech (1 minute)
68 words · about 1 minute at a calm pace
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. It is my pleasure to welcome our Chief Guest, [Name], [designation]. Sir/Ma'am, your work in [field] has inspired many of us, and we are honoured that you accepted our invitation. I also welcome all our guests, colleagues and friends who have joined us today. We hope the programme will be worth your time. Once again, a warm welcome to you all. Thank you.
Full speech (3 minutes)
217 words · about 2 minutes at a calm pace
A very good morning to everyone. On behalf of [organisation], I welcome you all to [name of the function].
It is my privilege to welcome our Chief Guest for today, [Name], [designation and organisation]. Sir/Ma'am, we know how full your calendar is, and we are grateful that you kept this morning for us.
Allow me to say a few words about our guest. [Name] has worked for [number] years in [field]. [He/She] is known for [one or two real achievements, checked beforehand]. Those who have worked with [him/her] speak first about [a personal quality, such as simplicity or discipline], and only then about the achievements. For our students and young colleagues, [his/her] journey is a lesson that steady work, done honestly, goes a long way.
I also welcome our guests of honour, [names], the members of [committee or management], our colleagues, and the parents and friends who are here today. A function is only a hall and a stage until the audience arrives. You have made it an occasion.
Today's programme has [number] parts: [list them briefly]. We have tried to keep to the clock, and I request all speakers to help us do so.
Sir/Ma'am, we look forward to hearing from you. Once again, on behalf of everyone at [organisation], a very warm welcome. Thank you.
Make it yours
A ready speech gets you started; your own details make people listen. Before you use this one:
- Collect the guest's correct name, title and two achievements in writing from the organisers. Never guess them.
- Do not read out a long biography. Two achievements and one quality are enough.
- Keep it to two or three minutes; the guest is the main speaker, not you.
- Add one true detail from your own school, office or family. It is the line people will remember.
- Read it aloud with a timer and cut what you do not need. The speech timer shows the time for any draft.
More help: how to deliver a speech, how to overcome stage fear and other opening and closing lines.