Free Sample Letters - Public Relations - Invitations - Declining Invitation to Speak - Guidelines

Declining Invitations to Speak

Guidelines and Alternate Phrases

Express appreciation for the invitation.

Thank you so much for thinking of me in choosing a speaker for your upcoming May 2 luncheon.

I was delighted to get your invitation to address the group on May 2.

Your invitation to speak to the ECCO Council on May 2 was a flattering surprise. Your programs are always so outstanding I’ve taken the invitation as quite a compliment.

I was pleased to receive your letter asking me to address the ECCO Council on May 2.

Thank you for your confidence in asking me to address your group on May 2.

Express regret that you must decline. Your regret sounds more sincere if you can give a specific explanation of what prevents your acceptance.

Although I’d love the opportunity to speak to your group, I don’t feel adequately knowledgeable on the subject you have in mind. My previous experience has been limited to….

Unfortunately, I have a meeting in London that day, and, because so many people are involved, I simply cannot change it.

I have had an out-of-town seminar scheduled for quite some time and will be traveling on the day of your dinner meeting.

Unfortunately, I have a previous commitment with a client on that day and simply cannot rearrange my schedule at this time.

Refer the organization to another expert if you think that is appropriate.

If you have no one else in mind to address that topic, give me a call and perhaps I’ll be able to suggest a colleague who could speak knowledgeably on the subject.

I suggest you call Harry Smith, whom I’ve heard on several occasions. He is a dynamic speaker who can tackle even the toughest questions from your most experienced attendees.

Wish success for the event.

You have my very best wishes for a successful meeting.

Best of luck to you in finalizing your program.

I know the program will be outstanding.

I’ll be eager to hear from those who have the opportunity to attend. The programs seem to get better every year.

I hope the dinner meets all your expectations.

With such attention to detail, I’m sure you’ll have a fine program.

My best wishes in lining up the additional speakers for the regional meeting.