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After-Dinner Speeches

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Its name notwithstanding, the contemporary after-dinner speech is just as likely to occur before, during, or after a lunch seminar or other type of business, professional, or civic meeting as it is to follow a formal dinner. In general, an after-dinner speech is expected to be lighthearted and entertaining. At the same time, listeners expect to gain insight into the topic at hand and/or to hear an outline of priorities and goals for the group.

Recognize the occasion. Connect the speech with the occasion. Delivering a speech that is unrelated to the event may leave the impression that the speech is canned—one that the speaker uses again and again in different settings.
Keep remarks sufficiently low-key to accompany the digestion of a meal. Even when charged with addressing a serious topic, keep the tone somewhat low-key.

Be Yourself When Using Humor

The most convincing speakers are the ones who are naturally believable. Trying to become funnier—or more serious—than you normally are can lead to an inauthentic delivery. If you are naturally very funny, use that skill. If you have more of a dry sense of humor, plan jokes that reflect that kind of humor.