When an employee or colleague leaves the company, it’s time to say goodbye warmly and professionally. And although you might say the right words in person, sending a letter or email creates a deeper connection. It honors the time you’ve worked together and opens the door to future collaborations.
Many people send birthday wishes and work anniversary messages to colleagues, employees, and managers. However, fewer take the time to send a farewell letter and thus miss an excellent opportunity. Staying in touch with a former co-worker is much more difficult if you don’t start on the right note.
First of all, leaving the working place is an emotional moment regardless of separation conditions. Even when people go to a better workplace, they still are nostalgic. So, receiving good words from their colleagues makes them feel appreciated and missed. They will remember who took the time to wish them all the best.
Sending a farewell letter also has a practical purpose. It’s an opportunity to give your contact details and ensure the former co-worker has all the information for staying in touch. Spoken words may be forgotten. Written words can easily be searched and found later on. And if you ever need advice or recommendation from a former colleague or boss, having sent a farewell message will come in handy.
TIP: If you’re a great manager, you can consider recommending the employee leaving for her skills and experience to your close group of friends who are constantly hiring or sharing their profile on a LinkedIn/Facebook group where professional acquaintance might discuss also recruiting. In this way, you boost your company branding and the company culture.
Best farewell emails to colleagues and managers acknowledge the time spent working together. They review the best and most difficult moments and show gratitude and respect. This is the place to show your appreciation. It is also the place to show your support and encourage the former co-worker to follow future opportunities.
You may also include feedback and recommendations, congratulations and wishes for the future, and meaningful advice.
In short, here are the elements to include in a farewell message:
Make sure the tone and content of the message fit the company’s culture and your relationship with the receiver. You can be as funny or professional as the situation allows.
Also, don’t forget to include contact details and not just the professional ones. If you want to stay in touch with a person who no longer works with you, you will have to include personal contact data such as your mobile phone number or personal email address.
A farewell message may be an email or a handwritten letter. You can accompany the message with a personalized card or gift given in an informal environment. Some organizations even welcome farewell parties.
If you need some inspiration in finding the best words for a farewell message, check out the following examples. Don’t forget to personalize them to fit your organization, personality, and relationship with the receiver. Be thoughtful, honest, and respectful.
Example 1
Dear [Employee Name],
On behalf of [team/department/office], we would like to thank you for your valuable contribution to our organization and wish you all the best in the next chapter of your career.
Your dedication and creativity were an inspiration for us all. We are grateful for your hard work, commitment, and team spirit. We will miss you, but we are sure you will be appreciated wherever you go.
All the best and good luck,
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 2
Dear [Employee Name],
It’s sad to see you leave, but we are sure the new challenge you take on will bring professional recognition and growth. You’ll always have a big place in our hearts and a chair in our office. We wish you all the best!
Good luck!
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 3
Dear [Employee Name],
As this is your last with our company, we take the opportunity to thank you for all the years you’ve been working with us. It was a privilege to work with you. Your work ethic and proactive attitude were an example to us all.
Best wishes,
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 4
Dear [Employee Name],
I appreciate all you’ve done for the company over the last few years. All the best in your new job, and I hope you achieve your goals. You are a hard-working and dedicated employee, so accommodating your new responsibilities won’t be hard.
All the luck and best wishes for your future!
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 5
Dear [Employee Name],
We are proud to name ourselves your colleagues and hope we’ll keep in touch. It’s sad to see you go, but we know your new job is a great opportunity, so congratulations. Do your best like you always do!
Best of luck,
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 6
Dear [Employee Name],
The company is losing one of its best employees today. I wish you could stay around, but I’m aware you deserve to follow your dreams and become the best version of yourself. You were always eager to learn, so I’m not surprised that you took on such a difficult position. Thank you for everything, and good luck!
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 7
Dear [Employee Name],
I want to personally appreciate your contribution to our company. Your continuous efforts were an example for your coworkers and an inspiration for all of us. You never give up and come up with the most ingenious solutions. We will miss you for sure.
I wish you a successful career and all the best!
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 8
Dear [Employee Name],
You will be hard to replace. Your professional and personal qualities improved our team and made us a fearful competitor in the market. We are sad to see you leave the company, but you will always be with us thanks to your remarkable achievements.
Good luck and farewell!
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 9
Dear [Employee Name],
I want to thank you for the time you spent with us. Your strategic decisions impressed me and left a mark on our organization. I recognize it’s the moment for you to take on more significant tasks, and I couldn’t be happier for you. Let’s stay in touch and share the amazing experiences that lay ahead.
Yours truly,
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Example 10
Dear [Employee Name],
Farewell! I will miss working, planning meetings, and having coffee with you. It’s been an excellent experience for me to meet such a wonderful person. I’m grateful for everything. Please stay in touch and visit when you can. I know your new job is challenging, but I also know you can do anything you want.
Best wishes and good luck!
[Full name/Position in team/Department/Office]
Editor tip: Employees are not always quitting because they got a better-paid job. Having a procedure to follow when offboarding an employee has benefits. Exit interviews can help in this sense. You will be able to identify elements that contributed to the employee resigning the firm. And if these are handled promptly, as a HR manager, you could reduce employee turnover, increase employee happiness, and make the company more resilient. And don’t forget by having a holistic experience from onboarding to the last day in the office, you have a much more solid approach to people management within your business.
Professional Farewell Message to a Boss
Dear [Full title and name of the receiver],
I’ve been working with you for the last [years of working together], and your guidance and support made things easy for me. I’ve learned a lot from your experience and professionalism. I’m grateful for your advice and patience. Although I’m sad I will no longer work with you, your contribution will always be appreciated. I will be honored to stay in touch. Please contact me at [email address / phone number].
As you set off for the next chapter in your career, I wish you success and amazing experiences.
Best regards,
[Full Name]
Farewell Message to a Departing Coworker
Dear [Name],
I had the pleasure of working with you for the last few years. You are an impressive worker and a supportive colleague. I appreciate your problem-solving abilities and communication skills as well. Although the department will miss your energy, I am pleased to know you are advancing in your career and are one step closer to your dream.
I wish you all the best of luck and success in everything you do,
[Name]
Tip: Please note that the HR analytics functionalities of LeaveBoard provide details about the length of service of each employee within the business. Such functionalities help not only to prepare a more personalized message when the employees are leaving for a new job but also help with overall HR management while employees are working within the business.
Example 1
Dear [Name],
It’s hard to see you go. Having a colleague and friend like you is a rare thing in a workplace. You were such an example to me and all of us. And not just work-related. You were the heart and smile of the team, and we sure are gone miss you.
Thank you for all your support, friendship, and good words. I hope your career will flourish, and you’ll have good experiences and colleagues for your next job. But please don’t forget me! Let’s keep in touch. You can reach me at [email address/phone number] anytime you want to hear a friendly old voice.
May luck and success be always with you,
Your colleague,
[Name]
Example 2
My Dear [Name],
It’s our last day together in the office, and I already feel the burden. It will not be the same without you. I appreciate all your advice, support, and good intentions. Big thanks for all the work you’ve done for me over the past years. I hope you all the best for the future, to accomplish your goals, and to fulfill your dreams. Let’s keep in touch and continue to develop our friendship.
Yours,
[Name]
Example 3
Dear [Name],
We’ve been colleagues for many years, and I know it was time for you to change. I’m happy you are following your dreams and advancing in your career. You deserve it, and I’m sure you’ll be fine wherever you work. You are a trustworthy, kind person. Everyone will be lucky to have you on their side.
Be aware I will be calling on you often. I’m already missing you though you are still sitting at the next desk.
All the best,
[Name]
Example 4
Dear [Name],
Elbert Hubbard once said, “A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.” I am that friend. Over the past years, I’ve learned everything about you. I know how passionate and enthusiastic you are. I know how hard you work and how quickly you can leave everything to help a colleague in need. I know how kind, sensitive, and creative you are. And I love you for that.
I wish you nothing else but the best of good luck with your next job. I’m sure you’ll make many new friends there, but I hope you won’t forget me.
Farewell and good luck,
[Name]
Example 5
My Dearest [Name],
I’ll miss you terribly, especially at our morning meetings, where you were the only one awake and smiling. We had a great time together and, although we won’t be working in the same office, I’m sure we will have plenty more. So you know, I’m waiting for all the juicy details about your new job. I give you a week to accommodate, and then let’s meet over a coffee like we usually do.
Take care,
[Name]
Example 6
Dear [Name],
We’ve been colleagues for so many years now, and it’s hard to see you go. But I’m happy for you and wish you all the luck in the world. It’s been great having you around to get me out of trouble and help me organize and arrive on time. Thank you for everything. I’m a better person thanks to you, and I’ll never forget your support. Let’s keep in touch!
All the best,
[Name]
Example 7
Dear [Name],
Congratulation on your new job! It’s a great opportunity, and I’m happy for you. You deserve the best. I’ve never seen someone working so hard and passionately, myself included. You are a great asset to any company; don’t worry about that for a second.
I’ll miss you in the office more than anyone. But our friendship means much more than a few hours at work. So don’t worry about this either. We’ll be fine.
Good luck, my friend,
[Name]
Example 8
Dear [Name],
Sincere appreciation for everything you’ve done for me. I know your support and advice are why I still work here, and I appreciate your kindness and openness. I wish you a successful career and a remarkable personal journey. If you need anything from me, please let me know.
Good luck and farewell,
[Name]
Example 9
My Dear,
We’ve known each other for a long time, so I know better than anyone how lucky your new colleagues are. You are a joy to be around. I’ve never understood how you do it. Always cheerful, always attentive, always professional. You’ve never missed a meeting or a coffee break. Honestly, I’ll miss you terribly at both. Let’s stay in touch and share our thoughts like we used to do.
Big hug,
[Name]
Example 10
Dear [Name],
We’ve been colleagues for a short time, but you’ve impressed me from the beginning. You have a huge experience and knowledge and happily share it with newcomers. It’s rare to see a professional so open and generous in this field. I thank you for all your support and inspiration.
Best regards,
[Name]
Best practice: Depending on how your business is functioning, you might organize farewell parties for colleagues who are leaving the business. They don’t need to be extravagant. Just the team together, some snacks, and maybe champagne on a Friday after work does work wonders. The employee will feel the business cares, makes the day more special, the transition easier, and the team members can connect and engage in a more casual way.
Funny Goodbye Email Last Day in Office
Dear [Name],
As you were the fun of the team, I don’t know what we’ll do without you. Please, send us at least one joke a day to keep us alive. My [email address/ phone number] is always open to you. Also, let us know where we can find you in times of terrible boredom or tearful success.
It’s been a pleasure to work, laugh, and cry with you. Even our coffees together were the best. Thank you for all our great experiences as co-workers. I wish you all the best in your career and life and hope to meet again soon.
Yours truly,
[Name]
Farewell Email to Employee from HR
Dear [Name],
As this is your last day with the company, I would like to take the time to thank you for your journey with us. You were an excellent employee, punctual, and willing to learn. You completed all the training programs and asked for more learning opportunities. We rarely see an employee so eager to grow and become a better professional. At the same time, we had nothing but good reviews from your colleagues. So thank you again, and good luck in the future.
All the best,
[Name]
Farewell Message to an Employee from the Manager
Dear [Name],
Over the past years, I had the opportunity to get to know you. And I’m happy I did. You are a respectful and hard-working employee. Your work is always done on time and of exceptional quality. And your colleagues love you. I regret to see to go. You are a great asset to the company.
Good luck with your career,
[Name]
Farewell Message to Retired Colleagues
Dear [Name],
We are sad to hear about your retirement. You’ve dedicated so much of your life to this company, and we appreciate all of it. Each of us had something to learn from you. Your wisdom and experience led us and helped us through tough times. Thank you so much for everything.
We wish you a long and happy retirement, the best of health, and the joy of your family.
[Name]
Farewell Message to a Departing Supervisor
Dear [Name],
I’ve worked under your supervision for a long time, and I can honestly say you always had my back. You have exquisite leadership qualities and a good heart to go with that. I’m sad to see you leave the company and I hope you’ll have a good experience at the next job.
Farewell and good luck,
[Name]
Farewell Message to a Mentor
Dear [Name],
I wish you all the best in your upcoming career plans. You’ve been a great help to me during hard times, and I’ll never be able to thank you enough. You’ll always have a place in my heart and a voice channel in my mind saying, “Stop. Breathe. Continue.” You’ve taught me so much about myself and the world. Thanks to you, I’m a better professional and a better person. I hope you’ll have an amazing journey wherever you go and fulfill your dreams.
Many thanks,
[Name]
Tip: Employees come and go; however, it is always a good idea to reflect on how to improve employee retention and start investing in programs to boost loyalty. With LeaveBoard you have an employee database with all the professional employee details, and when an employee leaves, deactivating their account is three taps away.
Goodbye message at resignation
Dear colleagues,
Working with you was a great satisfaction and I will miss you very much. I hope that my new job will have colleagues as professional as you!
All the best and good luck,
[Name]
Goodbye message to colleagues
Dear colleagues,
I learned a lot from all of you and you helped me in every activity and in my professional carrer growth. I am grateful to have had exceptional teammates and supporters like you.
Thank you all. Goodbye and best wishes!
[Name]
Farewell Email To Your Team or Direct Reports Template
Greetings colleagues,
As you already know, I’m moving on from [Company X].
My final day will take place on [Date], and I look forward to inviting you to a special farewell party [add details here]. I will take a lot of great memories from working with you as a team, and I sincerely wish you good luck!
You can find my contact details, and I would enjoy staying in touch with you and hearing about your professional successes.
[Email, LinkedIn]
Thank you,
[Name]
Don't forget about the teamwork quotes. They can bring some extra joy and inspiration.
Example 1
My dear colleagues,
Starting [Date], I will no longer work at [Company Name]. It’s been an incredible journey, and you have a lot to do with that. I received everything I needed and more from you. I came here a novice, leaving a professional, ready to take on new challenges. Thank you for everything!
If you want to connect again, you can reach me at [email] or [phone number].
Good luck and farewell,
[Name]
Example 2
My dears,
You had a strong influence on my development as a professional and on my personal journey. I enjoyed working with you, fighting from time to time but always completing our tasks and remaining friends. We were a joyful and nonconformist team, and I’ll keep you in a special place in my heart. I hope you’ll miss me from time to time, as I know I will miss you all.
Please do your best, like always, and let’s keep in touch!
[Name]
Example 3
As much as I like working with you, starting [Date], I will no longer work at [Company Name]. It’s sad to go, but I take with me unforgettable memories and good friends. I look forward to hearing from you, so please use the contact information I leave below.
Good luck, and see you soon,
[Name]
Example 4
My colleagues,
Thank you for being part of my professional journey and helping me whenever needed. You are a great team. I’m proud I was able to work by your side. I hope you’ll continue to treat new employees as kindly as you treated me.
Best of luck,
[Name]
Example 5
My dear colleague,
It’s been a pleasure sharing the office with you. I couldn’t have asked for a better colleague. You taught me so much, and we had the best laughs together. I enjoyed working with other colleagues as well, but you were my rock. I really appreciate it.
Until we meet again,
[Name]
Example 6
Dear [Name],
It’s been a pleasure working with you. You are the smartest, funniest, and craziest person I know. Our brainstorming sessions will remain legendary. I hope I taught you a thing or two because you definitely taught me a lot. I love and respect your creative part of yours the most. Don’t ever lose it!
Farewell,
[Name]
Example 7
My dear [Name],
I enjoyed every minute of our time together, whether it was work, meetings, or lunch. You are a great guy in every aspect. I’m lucky to have called myself your colleague. I hope I remain your friend, though.
See you soon,
[Name]
Example 8
Dear [Name(s)],
I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. I had a great experience with you, and I thank you for this opportunity. I’ll never forget what I learned here.
Best wishes,
[Name]
Example 9
My dear colleagues,
Thank you for being so supportive and making my journey here so pleasant. I had a lot to learn from you. Your collaborative contribution made me a successful employee and opened new career opportunities. I wish you the best of luck in your future activities.
Best regards,
[Name]
Example 10
Dear [Name],
Our time together was short but productive. I’m proud of how we handled the last task. Although we won’t be working together anymore, I’ll never forget your enthusiasm and professionalism. Your strength encouraged me to be a better employee, work harder, and become more resilient. Thank you for everything, and keep in touch.
All the best in your future endeavors,
[Name]
Example 1
Dear all,
Today is my last day with the company. I value the opportunity you gave me and all your help. Thank you for everything.
I leave my contact details for anyone willing to reach out.
Example 2
Dear all,
It was great working with you, but it’s time to say farewell. Starting [Date], I will no longer be an employee of the company. I’ll remember everything I learned during my employment, and I’ll keep working hard.
Best of luck!
Example 3
Dear colleagues,
It’s time for me to take on new challenges and move on. I appreciate your support and advice. You inspire me, and I won’t forget our time together.
I wish you success in all you do.
Example 4
Dear colleagues,
I’m leaving today, but I promise to contact you soon to share our new experiences. It’s been a joy to have you around. You create a healthy work environment and listen to everyone. You cultivate initiative, creativity, and trust. I enjoyed every moment.
Farewell!
Example 5
Dear colleagues,
During my time here, you were nothing but supportive and encouraging. You deliver valuable feedback and take care of each member of the team. I will miss you for sure. But my journey with the company ends today. Please save my contact details and let’s talk soon.
Farewell!
Example 6
Dear all,
It’s hard to leave, but new adventures await me, and I need to move on. I gathered so many memories with you, and I will treasure them. I’m sure you will achieve all your goals and create a company that’s hard to beat.
Best of luck!
Example 7
Dear colleagues,
It’s sad for me to say, but this is my last day with the company. Starting tomorrow, I’ll be a happily retired person with nothing to do all day. And I look forward to this. I thank you for all your kind words and wishes but, most of all, for all the fantastic memories we share. It’s been an incredible journey and wouldn’t have been the same without every one of you.
Farewell!
Example 8
Dear all,
Working with you it’s been educational. I learned a lot, and I value you taking the time to show me around, make me feel welcome, and help me do a good job. It’s been a great experience that pushed me forward in my career. You have my deepest appreciation.
All the best to you!
Example 9
I’ve seen you work hard, help each other, and take on challenging tasks when needed. You are a fantastic group. I’ve been very happy to work by your side and share all the good and bad days with you. I’ll miss you a lot.
Take care and success in everything!
Example 10
Dear colleagues,
I’ll leave the company soon but not before thanking you for everything you’ve done for me. You trusted my abilities and supported me in following my dreams. I’m thankful for your warmth and encouragement. I wish you all the best as a group and as individuals. And I leave you my contact data because I’m eager to know what the future brings you.
Farewell!
Farewell Message to the Team
Greetings colleagues,
As you already know, I’m moving on from [Company X].
My final day will take place on [Date], and I look forward to inviting you to a special farewell party [add details here]. I will take a lot of great memories from working with you as a team, and I sincerely wish you good luck!
You can find my contact details, and I would enjoy staying in touch with you and hearing about your professional successes.
[Email, LinkedIn]
Thank you,
[Name]
Thank You and Farewell Message to Colleagues
Good morning [Name],
As you know, I’m regrettably leaving my role at [Company]. Working in this company provided a fantastic opportunity from a professional and personal perspective, and I would like to thank your involvement and support.
I will join [New Company], aiming to bring forward all the competencies I have learned and improved here. The collaborations we had and the great achievements will be moments that I will happily remember.
Thanks one more time for everything
[Your name]
Farewell Message to Colleagues in the Office
Dear colleagues,
I learned a lot from you; you helped me in every activity and my professional career growth. I am grateful to have had exceptional teammates and supporters like you.
Thank you all. Goodbye and best wishes!
[Name]
Farewell Note
This is a short note to inform you I’ll be leaving the company soon. I thank you all for your support and encouragement, and I hope we remain in good relationships and continue to see each other outside the office hours. Farewell!
Short Goodbye Message Leaving the Company
Dear colleagues,
Working with you was a great satisfaction, and I will miss you very much. I hope that my new job will have colleagues as professional as you!
All the best and good luck,
[Name]
Conclusion
Farewell messages close a door and open a window. They celebrate the time spent together and build strong relationships for the future. Whether they are professional or friendly, thoughtful or funny, farewell letters are a way to say you care and appreciate a person. And valuing your colleagues and employees should be the norm in your organization. Even when you need dedicated cloud HR software to remind you of their milestones.
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