10 tips for giving a great speech at a holiday party

Ah, the office holiday party. It conjures punch lines of poor wardrobe choices and over-served sales reps. But in reality, it’s one of the more dignified traditions to survive the modern work world.

For bosses, it’s a moment to remind everyone why they’re drinking on the company tab. Rather than view this speech as an obligation, bosses should embrace it as an opportunity to set the tone for the coming year with remarks that make the team feel appreciated and appreciative.

Here are 10 tips for giving a great holiday speech:

1. Thank everyone. It’s the whole point of the speech, and frankly, the party. If you do nothing else, be sure to thank your team for their hard work throughout the year.

2. Thank significant others. They’ve made sacrifices on behalf of your company as well. They carry the load at home when the employee travels, works late, or misses a parent-teacher conference.

And no one influences your employees’ decisions more, whether it’s to stay at the company, volunteer for big projects, or gripe about the health plan. Here is a chance to bank some good will with the spouses.