Set the Stage

15 Jun Set the Stage

Never is there a more opportune time for speaking at weddings, graduations, birthdays and events that bring people together. Not only can you praise and inspire others, but you can be seen as the go-to person when genuine and compelling words are required. If done well, even a eulogy can comfort aching hearts.

Tennis great Roger Federer delivered a much-shared commencement speech at Dartmouth in 2024. He had 3 themes: Effortless is a myth… It’s only a point… and Life is bigger than the court. Federer backed up these lessons with examples, like his 2008 5-set loss to Rafael Nadal. He delivered an important life lesson about resilience and how even when you do everything perfectly, you can still lose. His words fit the students’ moment of transition. And he finished on time. Bravo!

When introducing, toasting or memorializing others, first research something unusual or surprising about them, or what only you would know. Use it to reveal their true character. If they have passed, be even more specific and provide memorable, brief stories. Always include what the person meant to you. And like Federer, rehearse a lot. Speaking is an ancient and revered skill. Take it seriously and you will bring this wonderful blend of art and science back into the common parlance. It is much needed in today’s world.