How to say farewell to a colleague: 44 ways to say goodbye

Finding the right words to say farewell to a colleague can be challenging. A thoughtful message ensures they know they'll be missed and appreciated. Whether you're close or not, a personalized goodbye can boost their confidence as they move on to new opportunities.

A well-crafted farewell message, whether for a longtime coworker or someone new to the team, can make a significant impact. Here’s how to send your colleague off with care, helping them feel valued as they embark on their next chapter.

Tips for writing farewell messages

• Personalize your message: Tailor your message to the individual and your relationship with them. Whether you’re close friends or casual colleagues, your message should reflect the connection you’ve shared.
• Stay positive and uplifting: Even if the farewell is bittersweet, focus on the positive aspects of your time together and express your excitement for their future.
• Keep it concise: A short, heartfelt message can be more impactful than a lengthy one. Focus on the key points you want to convey without overcomplicating the message.
• Exchange contact information: Ensure that you exchange contact information if you wish to stay in touch. This keeps the door open for future networking or personal connections.

44 messages to say farewell to a colleague

When pondering how to say goodbye to coworkers, you don’t need to get too creative. These situations are all about expressing your feelings and wishing someone well, not showy gestures that overwhelm your colleague. Brevity can be more impactful in emotional situations.

If you’re stuck, here are 44 example messages you can tweak for your departing coworker (or yourself). These are helpful examples of what to say in a leaving card or in person:

Farewell messages when a colleague is leaving

General colleague farewell messages

• "I'll miss seeing you around the office. Best of luck with your new company and future endeavors!"
• "Thank you for being such an important part of our team. We couldn’t have accomplished what we did without you!"
• "Your new job is lucky to have someone as hardworking and dedicated as you. Best of luck!"
• "I’ll always remember how patient and understanding you were when I first started here. Thank you for your kindness."

Messages for a colleague moving to a new opportunity

• "Your leadership guided us through challenges, and I know you’ll excel in your new role. Best of luck!"
• "I’m so excited about this new opportunity you’ve earned. Thank you for being an inspiration."
• "Your impact on our team will be felt long after you leave. Thank you for your hard work and kindness."
• "It’s been an honor to work alongside you. Wishing you success in your next adventure."

Farewell messages to a colleague you weren’t close to

• "Although we didn’t work closely, I appreciate the time we shared. Best wishes in your future endeavors."
• "While we didn’t collaborate much, I hope your new opportunity is everything you’re looking for. Good luck!"
• "Thank you for your leadership. Your dedication has been an inspiration."

Farewell messages when you’re leaving

Messages to your colleagues when you’re leaving voluntarily

• "Thank you all for making this a great place to work. I’ll miss you as I move on to my next chapter."
• "I’m excited about my new role but will always cherish the memories we made together."
• "It’s been a pleasure working with such a talented and supportive team. I’ll miss you all!"

Messages to your team when you’re being laid off

• "While this isn’t the goodbye I expected, I’m thankful for the time we’ve spent working together."
• "Though I’m sad to be leaving, I’m proud of what we achieved together. I hope our paths cross again."

Farewell messages for different roles

Messages for a boss or supervisor

• "Thank you for your guidance and support. Your leadership has had a lasting impact on my career."
• "Working under your leadership has been a privilege. I’ll miss your mentorship."
• "Your vision and dedication have been an inspiration. Best of luck in your future endeavors."

Messages for a mentor

• "Your mentorship has been invaluable, and I’m incredibly grateful for your guidance."
• "Thank you for your unwavering support and for helping me grow professionally."
• "Though I’m moving on, your impact on my career will remain. I hope we stay in touch."

Farewell messages for someone retiring

• "Congratulations on your retirement! You’ve been a cornerstone of this team, and your presence will be missed."
• "Your retirement is the perfect time to enjoy the things you’ve been looking forward to. We’ll miss you!"

General farewell messages

• "Wishing you all the best as you embark on this new journey. Your presence here will be missed."
• "It’s been a privilege working with you. Your new team is lucky to have you."
• "Your next chapter is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it takes you."

Heartfelt farewell messages

• "Working with you has been a highlight of my time here. I’ll miss your insight and kindness."
• "You’ve been an incredible friend and colleague. Thank you for all the support."
• "I’ve learned so much from you. Wishing you all the best as you move on to your next challenge."

Funny farewell messages

• "Who’s going to keep me sane in meetings now? Wishing you lots of luck!"
• "I know you’re leaving, but do you have to take all your great ideas with you? Good luck!"
• "Don’t think you can escape this easily—I’ll be sending you all the annoying emails I can think of."

Farewell messages highlighting contributions

• "Your innovative ideas and dedication have left a lasting mark on our team."
• "Your hard work and creativity have been an inspiration. Thank you for everything you’ve contributed."
• "You’ve set the bar high with your commitment and achievements. Best of luck in your next role."

Personalized farewell messages

• "From the beginning, you’ve been a friend and mentor to me. I’ll miss our coffee chats and brainstorming sessions."
• "It’s not every day you meet someone who makes such a lasting impression. I’ve valued every moment we’ve worked together."
• "Thank you for always being someone I could count on. I know you’ll thrive in your new role."

How do you message a colleague on their last day?

“On your last day, I want to wish you all the best in your new role and future endeavors. Your dedication and hard work will truly be missed! A final goodbye message can help ensure you stay in touch. Don’t forget to send a farewell message before leaving, and keep in touch as you embark on your next adventure.”

“As you wrap up today, congratulations again on your new opportunity! It’s been great working with you, and I know you’ll excel in your next chapter.”

“Best of luck as you move on from here. Your contributions have made a real difference, and you’ll be missed.”

“It’s your last day, and it’s been a pleasure working with you. Wishing you success and happiness in your new adventure!”

“Thank you for all your efforts and teamwork. On your last day, I want to say goodbye and wish you the best for what’s ahead. Please keep in touch!”

What is the best way to say farewell to a colleague?

Finding the best way to express your goodbye might seem overwhelming, especially if you're feeling sad. But it doesn't have to be. Here are four ways to extend your farewell message that are both professional and moving:

Send a card or gift

A simple farewell card or gift says a lot. You have the opportunity to write a farewell note of your own or have other coworkers join in.

It's also a nice keepsake for the coworker leaving. They can take it with them wherever they go next, and it'll remind them of their time at your company. A farewell message within a farewell card can be a perfect way to express your feelings and say goodbye.

Say it in person

You want to say goodbye in person if the coworker or mentor is someone special to you. Sharing a farewell message to a coworker in private often reflects your relationship: it's personal.

Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and share how you feel about them leaving, but avoid making the conversation about you. This could be a difficult time for them. Don’t let your feelings overwhelm the exchange. A heartfelt farewell message wishing them the best of luck delivered in person can be deeply meaningful.

Throw a farewell party

Put together some decorations and order a cake or other treat. Get your coworkers together to laugh, show your appreciation for, and reflect on this person’s time with the company. Unwind. Relax. And above all else, enjoy your time together. It’s these moments you’ll miss most when they’re gone. A farewell message shared at a farewell party can make the occasion even more memorable.

Whether at the office in the break room, restaurant, or local pub, get a few friends together and celebrate their departure. If you work remotely, a group Zoom or virtual game night will let you connect from afar. Send them off with positive memories of your time together. A well-timed farewell message during this gathering can leave a lasting impression.

Send an email or message

Remote work environments require you to get creative. Maybe you can't come together in person, but you can still wish your coworker the best. A farewell email or Slack message is a solid alternative to meeting face-to-face, but you can also arrange a video call if you’re close. A personalized farewell message in these settings can still be effective.

You can also fire off a personal email. There’s nothing wrong with dropping a few paragraphs in someone’s inbox detailing what you enjoyed about your time together and what you’ll miss when they’re gone. It’s also a great way to exchange contact information to keep in touch. A farewell message sent via email can be just as impactful as one delivered in person.

Why is it important to say goodbye?

Saying goodbye is important because everyone wants to feel appreciated and know they made a positive impact before leaving a job. A heartfelt farewell message offers closure for both you and your colleague as you part ways. It's an opportunity to express gratitude for their contributions and acknowledge how much they will be missed. This recognition helps them leave with a sense of fulfillment as they prepare for their next chapter.

Beyond maintaining professional relationships, writing a farewell message provides closure for both you and the departing colleague. It’s a chance to thank them for everything they’ve accomplished and to show your appreciation for their role in the team—or your life personally. A well-crafted farewell message, whether in a letter or a card, ensures they leave with positive memories and a clear understanding of how much their presence meant to you.

Research shows that a proper goodbye can motivate continued success. Colleagues who receive a thoughtful sendoff tend to transition more smoothly and positively into their new roles. Saying goodbye to work friends is one of the best ways to help them start their new job on the right foot. It’s your chance to support their bright future. Whether you send a farewell card or a personal message, your words can help maintain the connection and keep your relationship strong as they move forward.

If you didn’t get a chance to say goodbye on their last day, it’s not too late. Consider sending a message to their personal email with a note to keep in touch. It’ll brighten their day as they settle into their new job. A thoughtful farewell card or letter can also serve as a lasting reminder of the positive impact they had on your workplace.

Send them off on the right note

Regardless of what you say or how you say it, your soon-to-be former coworker will appreciate you taking the time to reach out on their last day and wish them best of luck. You’ll express your best wishes and give them the confidence they need to perform well in their next chapter, whether that’s taking time off or starting a new position. So don’t be shy — say farewell to your coworker with a heartfelt message, whether in a farewell card, a goodbye message, or a touching farewell letter.

If you're having trouble moving on or were recently let go, a BetterUp Career Coach can help. They'll work with you to find strategies to manage stress and get you on a better path.