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Should a public speaker say "thank you"?

The rules and appropriateness of a public speaker saying "thank you" are discussed in this free article by Derek Stockley.

Saying "thank you"

If you are ever required to speak in public, then you may have pondered this issue.

I often break one of the rules I was taught when I was first learning public speaking.

Many public speaking articles and courses will often state:

Never say thank you to an audience. The audience should thank you.

I am not alone, as many speakers and presenters say thank you after giving a speech or a presentation.

Why do we do it?

Often, I think it is appropriate.

I say thank you for a variety of reasons. Some of these include:

• Appreciation for listening to my message or point of view.
  
  
• Common courtesy
  
  
• I think it is the right thing to do.
  
  

Reflection

What do you think?

Do you say thank you?

If you do, why?

Your comment

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This page was last modified on 16 June 2005.