Speech at funeral ceremonies

Preparing a speech for a funeral is a task that requires a high degree of expertise in the subject. As a general rule, speakers who work on this subject usually study every detail carefully before presenting themselves at the ceremony.

Funeral speeches have an emotional charge of great importance. Their message is empathetic, restorative and conveys the feeling of grief and condolences shared by friends, acquaintances and family. That said, before presenting ourselves for an assignment of this style, it is important that we know some of the basic elements that must be mastered to do so.

During the course of this session, we will be delving deeper into this topic. In this way you will be able to approach and deepen your knowledge regarding this important and complex communicative act.

Gathering information: The highest complexity of exposing a funeral speech, is to be the center of attention in a scenario where you will be at a disadvantage in terms of the information you possess. Everyone in the room knows the deceased in one way or another, while you will be recalling anecdotes and experiences that you have not really lived. Describing the tastes, hobbies and traits of the person we are saying goodbye to will require a great deal of investigative skills.

Conducting an investigation in these circumstances is an act of skill, intelligence and speed. Anyone who can tell us anything about it will be emotionally affected or unwell as a result of what has happened. We must be able to identify the strongest link in the chain, i.e., the person close to the person who is able to maintain their composure most easily. This interview should be conducted with respect and empathy. Any indifference on our part may cause the information we receive to be inadequate.

One of the basic recommendations to find someone to provide us with information is to go to the same person who has requested our services. The one who has come to us, shows a special interest in the best possible development of this discourse. This will help us to access a greater amount of information.

Feedback from loved ones: Sharing with the loved ones of the deceased is of great importance when it comes to generating effective emotional connections. Respectfully and empathetically reach out and take an interest in how they are feeling.

Offer comfort and convey your condolences before you begin your speech. This way you will not be perceived as a stranger in the room, you will lessen the feeling of discomfort and you will feel more confident when you begin to present your ideas.

Be interested to know if they want anything in particular. Many funeral ceremonies are often accompanied by videos or photographs to recall anecdotes with loved ones. If you have a special idea, share it and see what the family's reaction is. Keep in mind that your mission here is to prepare an act that satisfies the wishes of your audience and enlivens a moment of great suffering and pain.

All your efforts should be directed to know how to interpret what your clients demand, how you can be a support for them and what elements can be most useful during your speech.

As in any presentation, there should be a timetable where the duration of the speech and the phases or stages of the presentation are defined. If you have finished your speech, but the atmosphere is immersed in your presentation act, you must be prepared to improvise or know how to let yourself be carried away by the emotional state that prevails in the room. This is one of the communicative acts that most demands empathy and humanity on our part.