New CEO Welcome Speech or Letter To Employees : This Is How Any Incoming CEO Can Easily and Quickly Write an Inspiring Speech That Will Endear You to Your New Staff
Are you a new CEO, President, Manager, Boss or Director of a company? If so, you are at the right place at the right time because in this post, I am going to share with you tips and ideas about…
- How to write an inspiring new CEO acceptance speech that will earn you the trust and resepect of your new staff and employees
- How to put together your random thoughts and ideas into a great introduction speech
- How to use CEO welcome speech samples you can model your own message after
…plus a whole lot more
Have you been appointed as a new CEO, President, Director or Manager of an organization you are truly passionate about and want to make a difference?
If you nodded yes to that, congratulations! What a wonderful blessing to have this new job. I know you have worked hard to reach this point in your career. It’s a well-deserved promotion!
Whether you have been promoted from within your current firm or tapped from somewhere else, you are going to work with diverse group of workers with different expectations, and your new CEO or welcome speech presents a perfect opportunity to not only make a favorable first impression but to also re-assure the staff, board of directors, and employees that you will always be there for them through thick and thin.
This would be one of the most important speeches you will make in your professional since your new employees would always remember what you said in hard times. So, you better brace yourself for it.
I know the question on your mind is: How you can deliver an inspiring CEO acceptance speech that will unify, inspire and reassure your employees and staff?
The following examples are replete with great ideas that can help you do justice to your presentation.
First and foremost, let’s study them carefully. Afterward, we will break them down bit by bit so we can figure out what went into writing an inpsiring welcome speech. Some bosses prefer writing while others opt for speeches. So, let’s look at both of them in detail.
Now, let’s look at the letter Tim Cook wrote to his employees when he was a new CEO at Apple.
Team:
I am looking forward to the amazing opportunity of serving as CEO of the most innovative company in the world.
Joining Apple was the best decision I’ve ever made and it’s been the privilege of a lifetime to work for Apple and Steve for over 13 years. I share Steve’s optimism for Apple’s bright future.
Steve has been an incredible leader and mentor to me, as well as to the entire executive team and our amazing employees. We are really looking forward to Steve’s ongoing guidance and inspiration as our Chairman.
I want you to be confident that Apple is not going to change. I cherish and celebrate Apple’s unique principles and values. Steve built a company and culture that is unlike any other in the world and we are going to stay true to that—it is in our DNA.
We are going to continue to make the best products in the world that delight our customers and make our employees incredibly proud of what they do.
I love Apple and I am looking forward to diving into my new role. All of the incredible support from the Board, the executive team and many of you has been inspiring. I am confident our best years lie ahead of us and that together we will continue to make Apple the magical place that it is.
Tim
This second example is what ex- Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella wrote to his employees when he first became CEO.
Today is a very humbling day for me. It reminds me of my very first day at Microsoft, 22 years ago. Like you, I had a choice about where to come to work. I came here because I believed Microsoft was the best company in the world.
I saw then how clearly we empower people to do magical things with our creations and ultimately make the world a better place. I knew there was no better company to join if I wanted to make a difference.
This is the very same inspiration that continues to drive me today.
It is an incredible honor for me to lead and serve this great company of ours. Steve and Bill have taken it from an idea to one of the greatest and most universally admired companies in the world.
I’ve been fortunate to work closely with both Bill and Steve in my different roles at Microsoft, and as I step in as CEO, I’ve asked Bill to devote additional time to the company, focused on technology and products. I’m also looking forward to working with John Thompson as our new Chairman of the Board.
While we have seen great success, we are hungry to do more. Our industry does not respect tradition — it only respects innovation. This is a critical time for the industry and for Microsoft. Make no mistake, we are headed for greater places — as technology evolves and we evolve with and ahead of it. Our job is to ensure that Microsoft thrives in a mobile and cloud-first world.
As we start a new phase of our journey together, I wanted to share some background on myself and what inspires and motivates me.
Who am I?
I am 46. I’ve been married for 22 years and we have 3 kids. And like anyone else, a lot of what I do and how I think has been shaped by my family and my overall life experiences.
Many who know me say I am also defined by my curiosity and thirst for learning. I buy more books than I can finish. I sign up for more online courses than I can complete.
I fundamentally believe that if you are not learning new things, you stop doing great and useful things. So family, curiosity and hunger for knowledge all define me.
Why am I here?
I am here for the same reason I think most people join Microsoft — to change the world through technology that empowers people to do amazing things. I know it can sound hyperbolic — and yet it’s true. We have done it, we’re doing it today, and we are the team that will do it again.
I believe over the next decade computing will become even more ubiquitous and intelligence will become ambient. The coevolution of software and new hardware form factors will intermediate and digitize — many of the things we do and experience in business, life and our world.
This will be made possible by an ever-growing network of connected devices, incredible computing capacity from the cloud, insights from big data, and intelligence from machine learning.
This is a software-powered world.
It will better connect us to our friends and families and help us see, express, and share our world in ways never before possible. It will enable businesses to engage customers in more meaningful ways. I am here because we have unparalleled capability to make an impact.
Why are we here?
In our early history, our mission was about the PC on every desk and home, a goal we have mostly achieved in the developed world. Today we’re focused on a broader range of devices. While the deal is not yet complete, we will welcome to our family Nokia devices and services and the new mobile capabilities they bring us.
As we look forward, we must zero in on what Microsoft can uniquely contribute to the world. The opportunity ahead will require us to reimagine a lot of what we have done in the past for a mobile and cloud-first world, and do new things.
We are the only ones who can harness the power of software and deliver it through devices and services that truly empower every individual and every organization. We are the only company with history and continued focus in building platforms and ecosystems that create broad opportunity.
Qi Lu captured it well in a recent meeting when he said that Microsoft uniquely empowers people to “do more.” This doesn’t mean that we need to do more things, but that the work we do empowers the world to do more of what they care about — get stuff done, have fun, communicate and accomplish great things. This is the core of who we are, and driving this core value in all that we do — be it the cloud or device experiences — is why we are here.
What do we do next?
To paraphrase a quote from Oscar Wilde — we need to believe in the impossible and remove the improbable.
This starts with clarity of purpose and sense of mission that will lead us to imagine the impossible and deliver it. We need to prioritize innovation that is centered on our core value of empowering users and organizations to “do more.”
We have picked a set of high-value activities as part of our One Microsoft strategy. And with every service and device launch going forward we need to bring more innovation to bear around these scenarios.
Next, every one of us needs to do our best work, lead and help drive cultural change. We sometimes underestimate what we each can do to make things happen and overestimate what others need to do to move us forward. We must change this.
Finally, I truly believe that each of us must find meaning in our work. The best work happens when you know that it’s not just work, but something that will improve other people’s lives. This is the opportunity that drives each of us at this company.
Many companies aspire to change the world. But very few have all the elements required: talent, resources, and perseverance. Microsoft has proven that it has all three in abundance.
And as the new CEO, I can’t ask for a better foundation.
Let’s build on this foundation together.
Satya
I think you will agree with me that both examples are excellent speeches you can learn and adapt to write your own message.
I am sure you might be wondering how you can make the most out of those examples since you are a busy executive. It’s very simple, really.
First, you need to watch a couple of videos to get a fair idea of what to say and how to say it better. Thankfully, youtube.com has plenty of such videos online to equip you and also help you master your presentation.
By the way, here are two videos you can watch and learn from.
Here you go:
New CEO welcome speech sample---(video #1)
New welcome acceptance speech example --- (video#2)
Now, let’s begin breaking down the second written example down bit by bit with an eye towards writing our own script.
First, let’s start with the introductory remarks or opening address. Let’s re-cap excerpts of it so we can be guided every step of the way.
The introduction is always the hardest part to write because your new employees and managers will most likely be judging you by what you say right from the start.
So, your opening remarks should be engaging, positive, and even funny without alluding to any seeming tension in the firm (even if there is one).
To easily write one that will set the right tone for your tenure and potentially signal your leadership qualities, you can start with one or more of these proven tips and ideas.
First, you can simply talk about your excitement about assuming the new managerial position.
Second, if you have risen through the ranks to be the boss of your organization, you can share just a little story about what your journey has been like over the years and your ‘’new employees’’ will enjoy every bit of it.
Here’s an example from Satya’s introduction speech.
Today is a very humbling day for me. It reminds me of my very first day at Microsoft, 22 years ago. Like you, I had a choice about where to come to work. I came here because I believed Microsoft was the best company in the world.
I saw then how clearly we empower people to do magical things with our creations and ultimately make the world a better place…
Third, you keep the atmosphere lighthearted by sharing a funny story about what happened when you assumed that position.
Let’s look at this example.
My youngest son, Mark has been a fan of comics ever since I can remember. Guess what happened a month ago.
When Mark came back from school, he dashed into my room and said, Dad, mom tells me that you are moving to Danny Toys in the fall. Please (comment: let it go hand in hand with facial gestures when you talk about the underlined words) don’t take up that job!
I scowled at him and retorted…’’Let’s make a deal, Mark. If I don’t take it up, then I will change your school and you will miss your friends!
He always outdid me. But he almost pulled this hair out on that one.
Then he countered through the tears and said dad, I get it. But I understand those guys work tirelessly like wall clocks! Just make sure you don’t wear yourself out!
The next day, he tiptoes to my room smiling and says’’ Dad, I have been thinking about your new appointment and I think you should give it a shot. But on one condition that you sack Superman from that cartoon series so I can take over from him.
I think I can do better than him as the hero. Do you remember the time I flew from our roof to save a stray cat? Will you do that?
May be! Let’s see what happens! I will probably give it my best shot. At that momet, he jumped off my bed and fell down with a thud!
I looked at him once more again and said: Mark, do you still want to take over from Superman?
This was his response: ''Oh no, I almost sprained my ankle and I think I need more time to train harder before I think of ousting him!''
Ladies and gentlemen, just like Mark, I thought for so long before taking up this post because I didn’t want to be the next Superman. But someone who works as hard as Mark put it(like a wall clock) and get on with everyone on the team to make…
I am sure you reading enjoyed that brief but hilarious example? I did!
Fourth, you can adapt this proven tip used by management consultant and coach Mike Hawkins. He illustrates it with this example.
When I was approached by Stem about taking this position, I had four primary interests: this market, working for a company with a compelling vision, capitalizing on great capabilities, and working with great people.
My view of your market is that it has tremendous potential.
My view of your vision is that you have it right. My initial view of your capabilities is mixed. You do some things very well and some not so well.
But isn’t anything that can’t be improved. Our future is within our control and I look forward to improving our capabilities together.
My view of you is that you will be the best people I’ve ever worked with.So that’s why I accepted this position and am excited about being your leader.
I’m going to take ninety days to assess our strategy and operations before making any substantive changes.
Unless I find something urgent that needs immediate change, I’m going take these first ninety days to get to know you, what you do, and what we all need to do to take this organization to the next level.
Now, let’s consider…
How you can easily write the body of your CEO welcome speech
That sounds easier to write, right? It seems so simple but most bosses really struggle to put together their random thoughts into a very coherent message.
Do you know why this happens? It’s because most speakers have years of corporate memories tucked inside their brains. But, they really don’t know how to begin or even where to start from.
To get your ideas across more clearly and persuasively without sounding stiff like a terrible boss, you need to present your vision in a compelling manner. Well, we can go back to see excerpts of the above example so we can figure out what to do.
Please note that I will be inserting my comments, observations and even asking questions below each extract. You just have to provide answers to the questions asked and use them to craft your own rough speech or message.
Ok, please let’s start.
Excerpt:
‘’I saw then how clearly we empower people to do magical things with our creations and ultimately make the world a better place…’’
Comments: Here, the incoming CEO tells a story of when he was first hired for the job. He reminisces about the good old days from his first day at work up until he was appointed to head the firm.
This approach is particularly useful if you have been picked from within and have decades of hands-on experience on the job.
Question: If you have been working at the firm so long, what have the years been like? Just write down your experiences (particularly the memorable ones as well as the not so good years especially if you learned valuable lesssons you wish to share with your team)
Let’s continue….
We’re still looking at the excerpts…
''I’ve been fortunate to work closely with both Bill and Steve in my different roles at Microsoft, and as I step in as CEO...''
Comments: If you are taking over from someone who was really admired and respected by your new employees, you can say something about that person and mention why you admire him or her. But, please make sure you do that from a sincere heart.
A few questions to ponder over to help you formulate the part mentioned right above in red:
- Whose big shoes are you stepping into? Please put down his or her name.
- What do you really admire about him or her?
- Is there something he’s or she’s really known for that you wish to briefly talk about?
Please note: If the outgoing CEO had a frosty relationship with the board of directors and even your new employees, then you should keep your words to yourself as there’s no need to scratch an old wound.
By the way, please put down answers to the above questions (a-c) and see if you can write a little story out of that.
Let’s continue by looking at the snippets….
''I am 46. I’ve been married for 22 years and we have 3 kids…Many who know me say I am also defined by my curiosity and thirst for learning. I buy more books than I can finish…''
Comments: If you are known to be a very warm or family oriented person, then it’s always a great idea to talk about who you are. You could talk about your upbringing, who or what shaped your character, and what your personal work culture or ethic is.
Here, you can throw in some personal attributes that tie in with your assigned responsibilities as CEO or president of your new workplace.
Let's go on with this
''Why am I here? I am here for the same reason I think most people join Microsoft..''
Questions:
- Who are you?
- What do you stand for?
- What are your personal ideals?
- Why did you take up the post as CEO or Boss of your firm?
Again, construct few sentences with your answers you wrote from Q1-Q4.
Let’s continue….
''I believe over the next decade computing will become even more ubiquitous and intelligence will become ambient. This will be made possible by an ever-growing network of connected devices, incredible computing capacity from the cloud…''
Comments: I read this and realized that this writer is a visionary because we can all see what became of Microsoft in the years after Satya's appointment.
As we look forward, we must zero in on what Microsoft can uniquely contribute to the world…
Questions ot help you compose parts of the speech as seen above:
- What’s your vision for the organization? Your dreams should be in sync with that of your new place of work.
- What do you expect from your employees and co-workers?
- Do you have any piece of advice for them?
- Do you have anything to share that will inspire them to work harder?
- Finally, you can reassure them that you will give them a listening ear and lead with patience, clarity and purpose in times of turmoil.
We are not done yet. Please let's keep at it
''This starts with clarity of purpose and sense of mission…
Next, every one of us needs to do our best work, lead and help drive cultural change. We sometimes underestimate what we each can do to make things happen and overestimate what others need to do to move us forward. We must change this…
Finally, I truly believe that each of us must find meaning in our work…
Many companies aspire to change the world. But very few have all the elements required: talent, resources, and perseverance. Microsoft has proven that it has all three in abundance.
And as the new CEO, I can’t ask for a better foundation…''
Action Tip or assignment: Now, this is what I want you to do right now. Please put all your answers together and just write your speech or letter(taking the ideas shared into account) without worrying so much about how it flows. You can always go back and review it until it comes out much better.
Please Read This Time-Sensitive Message Only If You Really Want to Give a Unique And Memorable CEO speech in record time…ignore this if you still want to make the same boring speech every you speak
Let’s face it. Being CEO is one of the most stressful jobs on earth. So, you shouldn’t stress out about putting together a great speech which in itself can make you lose your sanity and create an extra burden on your shoulders.
We know most CEO’S are not great with words and we are giving you a chance to come up with something inspiring and memorable without pulling your hair out!
Want to get on board? You should by first filling out this simple and short questionnaire and we will help you out as these people experienced.
This is also another letter we got from an old client
Ok, Is This Offer For Me?
- Yes, it’s for you if you are overwhelmed by the pressures of work or other things and really don’t have the time to put a beautiful speech together.
- Yes you have to get on board; if you don’t know how to start or are not too sure if you can.
- Yes, if you are not too eloquent or not too sure if you are on the right track.
- Yes, if you feel writing and giving speeches is simply not your thing! You just hate it!
- Yes, if you are still struggling to find the right words and ideas to say something memorable.
- Yes, if you feel you might make some horrible mistakes!
- Yes, if you are a good writer or speaker but you still want someone to look over or review what you’ve come up with!
Need a speech in about 24 hours or less? Trust me, we can deliver! it doesn’t matter if you need your speech today, tomorrow, next week, next month ,next year,... we can make things work for you right now.
Ok, I am Interested, What’s the Cost?
You don’t have to give any $$$$ now!
Why? Are you guys serious? Are you not kidding?
No, we are very serious about this since we want you to be happy with your speech first!
After we have delivered your speech, then you name a fair price for it! That’s all! So, you better not joke with this amazing offer! We are very serious about this!
Oh Ok, How Then Do I Get Started Since I Want To Get On Board Right Away?
All you have to do RIGHT NOW is to click on this link to receive an easy-to-fill-in questionnaire in your email to get started.
- So, CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED NOW TO GET YOUR GREAT SPEECH NOW BY FILLING OUT A QUESTIONNAIRE— -you name a fair price after your speech has been delivered. So, you can have peace of mind! You just give whatever amount you want to.
- After that, we will send you a very short and simple questionnaire to fill out!
- Then, you have it sent back to us via email
- If something is not too clear, we will ask you to clarify.
- If not, we will send you a wonderful draft.
- Then, you look it over and tell us if you are okay with it or you want to amend it till you are happy with it — although we always get it right even with the first draft.
- Then, we ask you to name a fair price for it!
So, CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED NOW TO GET YOUR GREAT SPEECH NOW BY FILLING OUT A QUESTIONNAIRE — -you name a fair price after your speech has been delivered. So, you can have peace of mind! You just name a fair price for your speech.