You spend most of your waking hours with your coworkers. Eight hours a day, five days a week, sometimes more. You share coffee breaks and lunch complaints, celebrate wins and commiserate over frustrations, witness each other's bad days and good hair days. With some coworkers, you forge a special bond that transcends the office walls - you become actual friends, grabbing drinks after work, texting on weekends, sharing parts of your life that have nothing to do with spreadsheets or meetings.
So when a coworker announces they're leaving - whether for a new opportunity, a relocation, retirement, or any other reason—it can feel genuinely sad. This is someone who's been part of your daily routine, who's made work more bearable or even enjoyable, who you've grown to care about as more than just the person in the next cubicle. But even through the sadness, you want the best for them. You want to celebrate their next chapter while acknowledging what their presence has meant to you and the team.
Finding the right farewell message to a coworker can be surprisingly difficult. You want to sound genuine without being overly emotional (especially if your workplace isn't touchy-feely), you want to acknowledge your relationship without making assumptions about how close you are, and you want to wish them well without sounding generic or obligatory. Whether you're saying goodbye to a coworker who became your work best friend, a respected colleague you admired, a boss who mentored you, or someone you simply enjoyed having around, the right words matter.
This guide provides goodbye message to coworkers for every type of workplace relationship and departure scenario. From heartfelt messages for close colleagues to professional wishes for acquaintances, from funny sendoffs for work friends to respectful farewells for bosses, you'll find the perfect words to express what this person's presence has meant and to wish them well in whatever comes next.
When your coworker is genuinely your friend, your goodbye message can be more personal and emotional.
"I can't believe you're actually leaving! Work won't be the same without you. You've been more than just a coworker—you've been a true friend. Thank you for making every day better, for being someone I could vent to, laugh with, and count on. I'm going to miss you so much, but I'm also really happy for you and excited about your next adventure. Please stay in touch. This isn't goodbye - it's just see you later."
"Saying goodbye to you feels surreal. We've spent so much time together, shared so many moments - the good, the bad, and the absolutely ridiculous. You've made work something I actually looked forward to, and I'm going to miss our [daily ritual - coffee breaks, lunch conversations, etc.] so much. Thank you for your friendship, your support, and for being someone who made this place feel less like work and more like a community. Wishing you nothing but the best in your next chapter. Love you, friend."
"I'm really going to miss you. You've been my work lifeline - the person who gets it, who makes me laugh, who makes the hard days manageable and the good days even better. Thank you for [specific things they did], for being a genuine friend, and for making these past [time period] so memorable. I know you're going to do amazing things, but selfishly, I wish you were staying. Please don't be a stranger!"
"Honestly, I'm devastated you're leaving. You've been such an important part of my work life and my actual life. We've been through so much together here, and I can't imagine coming in without you. But I also know this opportunity is incredible for you, and you absolutely deserve it. Thank you for being an amazing coworker and an even better friend. Distance won't change that. Let's make sure we stay close!"
"I'm not going to lie—I might cry when you actually leave. You've become one of my favorite people, and seeing you every day has been one of the best parts of this job. Thank you for your friendship, your kindness, and for making work feel less like work. I'm so proud of you for taking this next step, even though I'm going to miss you like crazy. Promise we'll stay in touch?"
"This is so bittersweet. I'm genuinely happy for you and this new opportunity, but I'm also really sad to see you go. You've made such an impact on me—professionally and personally. Thank you for being someone I could trust, laugh with, and be myself around. You're going to be amazing in your next role, and I can't wait to hear about all your success. But also, seriously, let's not lose touch."
"You leaving is honestly one of the saddest things to happen at this job. You've been such a bright spot in my days, and I'm going to miss you more than I can express. Thank you for being a wonderful coworker, a supportive friend, and just a genuinely great person. I'm so grateful our paths crossed here. Wishing you all the happiness and success in the world. And please, let's grab coffee/drinks soon!"
"Well, this is the worst news I've gotten all year. Who am I supposed to complain to now? Who's going to laugh at my terrible jokes? Who's going to help me avoid work while looking busy? You've ruined everything by leaving! But seriously, I'm going to miss you so much. Thanks for being the best work friend anyone could ask for. Don't forget about me when you're being successful and important at your new job!"
"I'm not crying, you're crying. Okay, we're both crying. You leaving is absolutely terrible for me but apparently great for you, so I guess I have to be happy about it. You've made this job so much more fun, and I honestly don't know how I'm going to survive here without you. Thank you for everything—the laughs, the support, the gossip sessions. You're irreplaceable. Stay in touch or I'm showing up at your new office!"
"Congratulations on your new job! I'm thrilled for you and also deeply upset that you're abandoning me here. How dare you pursue opportunities and better your career while leaving me behind? Just kidding (mostly). You've been an amazing coworker and friend, and I'm going to miss you terribly. Promise to still hang out even though we won't see each other every day? Please? I'm begging."
"I can't believe you're leaving me here with [coworker] and [situation]. Remember, you promised you'd never leave me alone with [inside joke]. And yet, here we are. Betrayal! But seriously, you've been the best part of working here, and I'm going to miss our [shared thing] so much. Thank you for being you. Don't be a stranger, and please rescue me soon!"
"Well, there goes my [inside joke reference]. Who's going to [shared activity] with me now? This is a disaster. You've been my partner in crime, my work spouse, my favorite person here. I'm genuinely going to miss seeing your face every day. Thanks for making work actually enjoyable. You'd better stay in touch, or I'm coming after you!"
For coworkers you admired professionally but weren't close friends with personally.
"I wanted to wish you the best as you move on to your next opportunity. It's been a pleasure working with you these past [time period]. Your professionalism, expertise, and positive attitude have made a real impact on this team. Thank you for everything you've contributed here. Wishing you continued success in your new role!"
"Congratulations on your new position! Working alongside you has been a great experience. I've learned so much from watching how you handle challenges, lead projects, and interact with the team. Thank you for setting such a great example. Best of luck in your next chapter!"
"I'm sorry to see you go, but I'm excited for what's ahead for you. You've been an excellent colleague - reliable, skilled, and genuinely pleasant to work with. Thank you for your contributions to our team and for making this workplace better. Wishing you all the best!"
"It's been a privilege working with you. Your dedication, knowledge, and work ethic have been inspiring. Thank you for being such a valuable member of this team. Though we'll miss you here, I know you're going to excel in your new role. Congratulations and best wishes!"
"Your departure is definitely our loss! You've brought so much to this team - expertise, leadership, and a positive energy that made work better for everyone. Thank you for all your contributions and for being such a great colleague to work with. Wishing you tremendous success ahead!"
"I wanted to thank you before you go. Working with you has genuinely made me better at my job. Your approach to [specific skill/quality] has taught me a lot, and I'm grateful for that. Best of luck in your new role - they're lucky to have you!"
"You're going to be seriously missed around here. Your knowledge, skills, and professionalism have set a high standard for all of us. Thank you for everything you've brought to this team. Excited to see what you accomplish next!"
"Best wishes on your next adventure! It's been great working with you."
"Congratulations on your new opportunity! Wishing you all the best."
"Sorry to see you go, but excited for your next chapter. Good luck!"
"Thank you for everything you've brought to this team. Best wishes ahead!"
Read also: Short Retirement Wishes: Perfect Messages for Every Coworker
Saying goodbye to a boss requires balancing professionalism with genuine appreciation.
"I wanted to thank you before you leave. Working under your leadership has been an invaluable experience. You've taught me [specific lessons], challenged me to grow, and supported my development in ways I'm truly grateful for. Thank you for being an excellent manager and mentor. Wishing you all the success in your next role!"
"It's difficult to see you go. You've been more than just a manager—you've been a true leader and mentor. Thank you for your guidance, your trust in me, and for creating an environment where I could learn and grow. I'm grateful for the time I've had on your team. Best of luck in your new position!"
"Thank you for your leadership and support during your time here. You've made a significant impact on my professional development, and I'm better at what I do because of your management. I'll miss working for you, but I'm excited to see what you accomplish next. Congratulations on your new opportunity!"
"Working for you has been one of the best experiences of my career. Thank you for being a manager who actually listens, supports, and develops their team. Your leadership style is something I'll carry with me throughout my career. Wishing you continued success and hoping our paths cross again!"
"I'm really going to miss having you as my manager. You've created such a positive team culture, and your leadership has made coming to work genuinely enjoyable. Thank you for everything you've taught me and for believing in my abilities. Best wishes in your next role!"
"Congratulations on your new position! While I'm sad to see you go, I'm excited for this next opportunity for you. Thank you for being an approachable, supportive, and effective leader. You'll be missed, but I know you're going to do great things!"
"Thank you for being an exceptional manager. Your door was always open, your feedback was always constructive, and your support was always genuine. I've learned so much from you, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have been on your team. Good luck with everything ahead!"
"Thank you for your excellent leadership. Best wishes in your new role!"
"It's been a privilege working for you. Wishing you continued success!"
"You'll be missed! Thank you for everything you've taught me."
"Congratulations on your next opportunity. Thank you for being a great manager!"
For colleagues in leadership positions who weren't your direct boss but influenced your work.
"I wanted to wish you well as you move on. Your leadership has made a real difference to this team, and your approach to [specific quality] has been inspiring to watch. Thank you for your guidance and for setting such a positive example. Best of luck in your new role!"
"You're going to be greatly missed! Your experience, wisdom, and leadership have been invaluable. Thank you for always being willing to share your knowledge and for making this team stronger. Wishing you all the best in your next chapter!"
"Congratulations on your new opportunity! Your contributions to this team have been significant, and your absence will definitely be felt. Thank you for your leadership and for being someone we could all learn from. Good luck with everything ahead!"
"Thank you for being such a great mentor and leader. Even though you weren't my direct manager, I learned so much from watching how you work and from the guidance you offered. Your impact extends beyond your official role. Wishing you tremendous success ahead!"
"I'm grateful I got to work with you. Your leadership, even from outside my direct chain, has influenced how I approach my work. Thank you for being generous with your time and knowledge. Best wishes in your new position!"
Make a Group Video Gift for a Boss
For colleagues who haven't been with the company long before leaving.
"I'm sorry we didn't get more time to work together! Even in the short time you've been here, you made a positive impression. Wishing you the best in your next opportunity!"
"It was great getting to know you, even if it was brief! You brought great energy to the team. Best of luck with your new position—they're lucky to have you!"
"Though you weren't here long, you made an impact! Thanks for your contributions and for being a great colleague. Wishing you success ahead!"
"I understand this opportunity is better for you, and I'm happy you found something that's a better fit. It was a pleasure working with you, even briefly. Best wishes!"
"Sometimes the right opportunity comes along at unexpected times! Glad you found something that works better for you. Good luck with everything!"
Retirement deserves special recognition of their career and contributions.
"Congratulations on your retirement! [Number] years with this company is an incredible achievement. You've seen so much change, contributed so much, and left such a lasting impact. Thank you for your dedication and for everything you've brought to this team over the years. Enjoy this well-earned next chapter!"
"Happy Retirement! You've earned every moment of relaxation ahead. Thank you for [number] years of excellence, for mentoring so many of us, and for being a constant presence here. Your wisdom and experience will be greatly missed, but we're so happy for you. Enjoy your retirement!"
"What a milestone! Congratulations on your retirement. You've had an incredible career here, and your contributions have shaped this organization. Thank you for your years of service and for being such a positive presence. Wishing you a retirement filled with joy, relaxation, and new adventures!"
"I can't believe you're actually retiring! You've been such a fixture here, and it's hard to imagine the office without you. Thank you for your kindness, your patience with all of us younger folks, and for sharing your wisdom so generously. You deserve every bit of happiness in retirement. Enjoy it!"
"Congratulations on reaching retirement! You've worked hard for this moment, and I hope you enjoy every second of it. Thank you for being such a wonderful colleague all these years. Your presence will be missed, but your impact will last. Happy retirement!"
(These should be supportive and avoid making them feel worse)
"I'm so sorry about this situation. Please know that your value and your skills haven't changed. You're talented and capable, and I have no doubt you'll land on your feet. If there's anything I can do to help—reference, connection, just someone to vent to—please reach out. Wishing you the best."
"This company's loss will be someone else's gain. You're incredibly skilled, and any organization would be lucky to have you. I'm here if you need a reference, want to network, or just need someone to talk to. Wishing you the best as you navigate this transition."
"I'm really sorry this happened. You didn't deserve this. Please don't let this shake your confidence—you're excellent at what you do. Let me know if I can help in any way. You've got this."
"I'm going to miss having you around, but I'm excited for your adventure in [new location]! Thank you for being such a great colleague and friend. Let's definitely stay in touch, and I expect a couch to crash on when I visit [city]!"
"Congratulations on your move to [location]! While we'll miss you here, this sounds like an amazing opportunity. Thank you for everything you've brought to this team. Wishing you a smooth transition and lots of happiness in your new city!"
"So jealous you're moving to [location]! It's going to be amazing. We'll definitely miss you around here, but I'm excited for this new chapter for you. Safe travels and keep in touch!"
(Keep it simple and supportive without prying)
"Wishing you all the best as you move on. Thank you for your time here and for being a great colleague. I hope everything works out beautifully for you."
"I understand you need to focus on other priorities right now. Thank you for everything you've contributed here. Wishing you peace and happiness moving forward."
"Your presence here will be missed, but I hope this transition brings you what you need. Thank you for being a wonderful colleague. Take care of yourself."
(Stay professional and gracious)
"Best wishes as you move on to your next opportunity. Thank you for your contributions to the team."
"Wishing you success in your new role. All the best."
"Congratulations on your new position. Best of luck ahead."
When writing in a group card, keep it inclusive and appropriate for all to read.
"You'll be greatly missed! Thanks for being such a wonderful colleague. Best wishes in your next adventure!"
"It's been a pleasure working with you. Thank you for everything you've brought to our team. Good luck ahead!"
"Your positive energy and contributions will be missed! Wishing you all the best in your new role!"
"Thank you for being such a valued member of our team. Best wishes for continued success!"
"Best of luck! You'll be missed!"
"Wishing you all the best! Thanks for everything!"
"Congratulations and good luck in your next chapter!"
"You'll be missed! Enjoy your next adventure!"
For coworkers who appreciate humor and with whom you have that kind of relationship.
"I can't believe you're abandoning us for [reason]. How dare you pursue better opportunities and leave us here? Rude. But seriously, congrats and we'll miss you. Don't forget about us little people!"
"So you're just going to leave us here to suffer without you? Cool, cool. I see how it is. Enjoy your fancy new job while we're stuck here! (Just kidding—we're happy for you, but also devastated. Mostly devastated.)"
"Congratulations on escaping! Please send help when you can. We'll miss you!"
"Well, there goes my only friend here. What am I supposed to do now—actually work? This is terrible. You're terrible for leaving me. Good luck, I guess!"
"You leaving confirms what I've always known: everyone who's smart gets out of here eventually. I'm still here, so... yeah. Miss you already!"
"My work spouse is leaving and I'm not okay! Who's going to [shared activities]? Who's going to understand my references? Who's going to make work bearable? This is a disaster. But also, I'm really happy for you and proud of you. Just don't replace me at your new job, okay? You'll be missed so much!"
"Who am I supposed to eat lunch with now? Who's going to complain about work with me? This is devastating! You've been my daily sanity break, and I'm going to miss our lunches so much. Thank you for being such great company. Let's make sure we still do lunch dates!"
"I can't thank you enough for everything you've taught me. You've shaped my career in ways I'll always be grateful for. Thank you for your patience, your guidance, and your belief in me. You've been more than a colleague—you've been a true mentor. I'll carry these lessons with me always. Wishing you all the best!"
"The office just got 90% less funny. Who's going to make us laugh now? Who's going to lighten the mood during tense meetings? You've made work so much more enjoyable, and your humor will be seriously missed. Thanks for all the laughs. Good luck with everything!"
Handwrite for personal touch. Be slightly more formal since others may read it. Sign clearly with your full name if needed.
Use subject line like "Best Wishes" or "Congratulations." Keep formatting clean. Send from work email on their last day or just before. CC yourself if you want to keep a copy.
Keep it brief unless you're very close. Choose a private moment if it's emotional. Have tissue ready if you're emotional. Follow their lead on how sentimental to get.
Keep it shorter than email. Consider whether public or private is appropriate. Emojis are usually fine in casual workplaces.
Keep it professional. You can be warm but remember it's public. Good for maintaining professional connection. Wait until after their departure is announced.
Read also: How to Congratulate Someone on a Promotion?
Saying goodbye to a coworker is never easy, especially when they've become an important part of your workday and your life. Whether they've been your closest work friend, a respected colleague, an inspiring boss, or simply someone who made the office a better place, their departure leaves a gap.
The best farewell message to coworker is one that's genuine, appropriate to your relationship, and focused on them rather than your loss. It acknowledges what they've meant to you and the team while celebrating their next step, even if you're sad to see them go.
Remember: people leave jobs, but the relationships you've built don't have to end. The coworkers who became friends can stay friends. The mentors who shaped your career can remain part of your professional network. The colleagues you respected can become future collaborators.
So write that farewell message with honesty and warmth. Let them know they mattered, that they'll be missed, and that you're genuinely wishing them well. Because at the end of the day, that's what saying goodbye to a coworker is really about - honoring the time you had together and sending them off with love, support, and genuine hope for their happiness.
Good luck to everyone moving on to new opportunities, and to everyone left behind saying goodbye - may your next great coworker be just around the corner.
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