Sending farewell messages to coworkers is a great way to express your appreciation. Whether you’re taking on a new role with another company, leaving the workforce to pursue academics, or if one of your colleagues is moving onto bigger and better opportunities, change is – for the most part – inevitable.
Although there isn’t much you can do about it, you can make this exit more comfortable for everyone involved. From dedicating a simple farewell message to coworkers at their departure to presenting them with a novelty gift, there are plenty of ideas when saying farewell to a colleague, employee, friend, or boss.
Employee management software or an offboarding platform can remind you to reach out, and the following template farewell messages to coworkers will hit the right tone.
100 Farewell Messages to Coworkers, Colleagues, and Employees
Goodbye messages may be required for various reasons. In some cases, you might be saying farewell to a coworker who has recently been fired. Other times, you might say goodbye to a colleague who has recently graduated from your college class. Retirement farewell messages are common, too. Whatever the case may be, it’s always easier to say it with an appropriate farewell message to colleagues, such as:
When a Beloved Coworker Leaves the Company
1.“Goodbye and good luck!
2. You’ve been a great coworker, colleague, and mentor – you’ll be missed dearly!
3. I’ve been dreading this day for quite some time – keep in touch!
4. The entire [company name] team wishes you all the best!
5. Whatever happens in your future career, I just hope that your next company values you as much as we do!
6. It’s been my personal privilege working with you, [name]!
7. “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” – Dr. Seuss
8. You’ve taught me a lot during your time here, [name], and I hate to see you go!
9. Your presence will be missed even more than you realize, [name]!
10. Farwell, [name]! I wish you all the luck in your future endeavors!
11. You’re a true rockstar, [name], and you will be missed!
12. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors!
13. Instead of saying goodbye, I’d much rather say “See ya soon!”
14. No matter what happens, you’re always a part of the [company name] team!
15. To bigger and better things!
16. I always knew this time would come, but it doesn’t make it easier. Farewell, [name]!
17. Congratulations on your new job, [name]. I’m wishing you all the best!
18. I really hate to see you go, [name]!
19. Thanks for being a great coworker!
20. “Saying goodbye doesn’t mean anything. It’s the time we spent together that matters, not how we left it.” – Trey Parker
21. Best of luck in your new role – they’re lucky to have you!
22. You’ve been more than a great coworker, [name]. You’ve turned into a true friend and we’ll definitely stay in touch!
23. While I’m sad to see you go, I’m even more excited to see what you do in the future!
24. You’ve taught me a lot during our time as coworkers and professional colleagues. I’d like to wish you all the best in your career.
25. The [company name] family wishes you all the best in your future endeavors, [name]!
26. Remember, [name], I’m rooting for you to succeed in all of your future endeavors!
27. I consider you more than a coworker, [name]. You’ve been a great friend and I’m wishing you all the luck in the world!
28. Good coworkers are hard to find. You’ll be missed at [company name]!
29. I’m trying not to take this personally, but I’ll really miss having you around the office, [name].
30. “It’s time to say goodbye, but I think goodbyes are sad and I’d much rather say hello. Hello to a new adventure.” – Ernie Harwell
31. You made me feel welcome ever since my first day at [company name]. To say your presence will be missed is an understatement.
32. Thanks for the memories!
33. You’ve taught me a lot in our short time as teammates, and I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate it.
34. The entire team at [company name] is better off for having known you, [name].
35. I never really know what to say in times like these, so I’ll keep it short. Goodbye, [name]!
36. You were the first teammate I really connected with at [company name], and I’ll certainly miss you!
37. Dear [name]: I have all the faith in the world that you’ll excel in your new role. Farewell for now!
38. I’m excited for you and your new opportunity, [name], but I’m sad to see you go!
39. “The goodbye to a long and important work is always more sad than gratifying.” – Friedrich von Schiller, German playwright
40. It’s been a pleasure working with you!
41. You’re a positive influence and an inspiration to everyone around you, [name]!
42. Congratulations on taking the next step in your career!
43. The entire office is sad to see you leave, [name]!
44. Remember – every sunset is followed by a new sunrise. Here’s to new beginnings
45. You’ve made work more fun than it should be. I’ll definitely miss you at [company name].
46. I’m not sure what I’ll do without you, [name]!
47. You’ve become more than a coworker, [name] – I consider you a true friend. Keep in touch!
48. I’ll miss you more than words can tell, [name].
49. Congratulations on your new opportunity! If you need any emotional support, remember – I’m only a phone call away!
50. You were a fantastic employee who always went above and beyond the call of duty.
51. I just want to take this moment to express my appreciation for everything you’ve done with the [company name] team.
52. My only hope is that your new coworkers appreciate you as much as we did, [name].
53. We met as coworkers but I hope we can continue being friends, [name].
54. Goodbye and farewell, [name]. Until we meet again!
55. You’re one of the best coworkers anyone could ask for, [name]!
56. Congratulations! I know it’s been difficult, but I couldn’t be more proud to see you taking the next step in your career.
57. I’m wishing you all the best with your new company, [name]!
58. The worst part about success is the constant change that comes with moving up the ladder, but it’s time to say goodbye.
59. I’m sure you're nervous about taking the next step in your career, but I’m nervous about who might take your place here. Best wishes, [name]
60. [Company name] will be significantly less exciting without you around, [name].
61. Not to get too sentimental, but it’s truly sad to see you go.
62. You’ve been a valuable part of the [company name] team and we’re sad to see you go.
63. “If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello.” – Paulo Coelho
64. Although I’m losing a valuable coworker, I truly believe that I’ve gained a great friend.
65. Leaving a great team is never easy, but I’m confident that you have all the tools necessary for continued success.
66. Thanks for being such a valuable part of the [company name] team.
67. I’m sure you’ll fit in with your new company just as well as you did here, [name].
68. You’re a shining star, [name], and I hope you continue to burn bright in all of your future endeavors!
69. Although you are leaving [company name], your presence will remain through the contributions you’ve made to our team.
70. Congratulations! While I’m sad that you’re leaving, I’m excited that you’re starting a brand new chapter in your career.
71. You’ve taught me more than you’ll ever realize, [name]. Enjoy your new role!
72. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for, [name] – it’s your time to shine!
73. Nobody will be able to replace your tenacity, determination, and hard work, [name].
74. Thank you for your many years of service at [company name] – you will be missed!
75. Best wishes for a bright and productive future!
76. You’ve been a stellar employee and, most importantly, a great friend. Best of luck!
77. It is with my warmest regards that I say farewell, [name].
78. There comes a time when we all have to say goodbye to the past and hello to the future. Congratulations, [name]!
79. How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” – A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh)
80. All of your hard work is really paying off, [name]. Best of luck in your new role.
81. Thanks for all you’ve done for me and [company name]. We couldn’t have made it this far without you.
82. Your presence will be missed by everyone at [company name].
83. Congrats on your new role – they’re lucky to have you!
84. Just because we’re no longer coworkers doesn’t mean we can’t still be friends! Keep in touch.
85. Although my job will be a lot harder without you around, I’m happy to see you succeed!
86. You’ve been a model employee, [name], and you’ve had a tremendously positive effect on the [company name] brand.
87. Good luck, [name], and remember: know your worth and never settle for less than you deserve.
88. I can’t say I’m happy to lose you as a coworker, but I am happy to have you as a lifelong friend.
When You’re Leaving a Great Team of Colleagues Behind
89. While I’m eager to take on my new role and further my career, I’m sad that I have to say goodbye to all of my coworkers at [company name].
90. Here’s to one of the best coworkers I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with!
91. Although I enjoyed my time at [company name] immensely, it’s time that I move forward and take the next step in my career.
92. Working with the [company name] team has been the highlight of my career thus far. Thank you all for the support as I transition to the next phase of my career.
93. It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to my coworkers, colleagues, and friends at [company name].
94. Instead of viewing this as a goodbye, try to view it as an opportunity to say hello to a new teammate, colleague, and friend.
95. Before leaving, I’d like to extend a sincere “thank you” to everyone on the [company name] team.
96. While I’ve learned a lot from [company name] and my teammates, I’m ready to begin the next phase of my career.
97. Onward and upward!
98. I’ve had a fantastic time with [company name]. I’ve learned a lot from all of you and I am a better person because of it.
99. “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” – Socrates, Greek philosopher
100. You’ve taught me a lot in the time we’ve been working together.
Funny Farewell Messages to Coworkers
Great coworkers are difficult to come by. That’s why it’s so hard to say goodbye when the time comes. If necessary, try lightening the mood with a funny farewell message to coworkers, or a beloved colleague who is moving on.
However, make sure the situation warrants a comedic response. Trying to be funny at an inappropriate time, such as after a coworker or friend has just been fired, can easily come across the wrong way – even if your intentions are pure. While plenty of HR tasks can now be performed by AI, a human touch is important here.
1. I know you will all struggle without me, but it’s time to say goodbye.
2. Dear [name]: Somebody here is really going to miss you. I don’t know who that is, but I’m sure somebody will!
3. Well I can’t say I blame you for leaving, [name], but I sure will miss you!
4. Goodbye, and good luck finding a better teammate than me!
5. Now that you’re gone, who can I find to pick up all my slack?
6. I hate to see you go, [name], but I really hate the fact that I’ll have to train someone else to take your place.
7. Don’t let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya!
8. In a world of mediocre coworkers, you’re a true standout, [name]!
9. Congratulations – you’re one of the few who managed to escape [company]. Now it’s up to you to make the most of it!
10. You’re leaving for another company? I didn’t even realize you worked here!
11. I promised myself I wouldn’t cry. But don’t worry – I won’t!
12. “Some cause happiness wherever they go, others whenever they go.” – Oscar Wilde
13. Now that you’re leaving, maybe we can finally get some work done around here!
14. Oh, you’re leaving? Did AI already replace your job? Just kidding, best of luck in your career!
15. It’s been a true honor working with you, [name], but it’s even more of an honor to tell you goodbye!
16. They say the best ones are always on the lookout for new career opportunities. Remind me why you’re leaving again?
17. Farewell, [name]. Try not to listen to what everyone else says – I, for one, always enjoyed working with you.
18. I’m really not sure what you’ll do without us, [name], but I guess we’ll soon find out!
19. Dear [name]: I really want to say that it’s been nice working with you, but I’m not a liar. Just kidding! It really has been a pleasure and I’m wishing you all the best.
20. Wait, before you go – can I borrow some money until my next paycheck?
21. I’ve been struggling all week to come up with a heartfelt way of saying goodbye. As soon as I think of one, I’ll let you know.
22. Congratulations on escaping [company name], now you just have to avoid the orderlies.
23. Well, at least one of us is making it out of here alive. Congratulations!
24. How could you leave me at a time like this? You know I’m not mature enough to handle this job on my own!
25. Although this is goodbye for now, I truly hope we meet again soon – so I can give you a punch in the stomach for leaving in the first place!
26. I have to admit, I’m sad to see you go. How else will I keep up with all the office gossip?
27. Wait, you’re leaving? What will you ever do without me?
28. Now that you’re leaving, it’s finally safe to put my lunch in the office fridge again. Adios!
29. The [company name] family is sad to see you go, [name], but we’re happy to finally get some work done around here!
30. They must have offered a lot to steal you away from us. Just kidding, I know they didn’t. Congratulations anyway!
31. Even a rat knows when to abandon a sinking ship. The real question is: are you the rat or the ship?
32. I thought this day would never come, but you’re finally leaving! Just kidding, [name]!
As you can see, farewell messages don’t have to be serious and somber. When done correctly and with good intentions, funny goodbye messages help everyone make it through the upcoming transition. In some cases, humorous farewell messages can even create stronger bonds between you and your colleagues.
Farewell Messages to Bosses & Managers
Sure, some bosses can be toxic, but most aren’t and all are prone to the same emotions faced by anybody else who is leaving the workplace for good. They’ve probably made some valuable professional connections and, in some cases, personal ones, and they should be given the same sort of consideration as anyone else.
Penning a farewell message to a boss or manager lets them know you care and value their guidance– they’re sure to appreciate the gesture.
1. Be the change you wish to see in the world!
2. I’m sure you’ll make a great manager with your new company!
3. You’re a proven leader, [name], I’m sure you’ll make a great impression at [company name]!
4. Dear [name]: If it wasn’t for your leadership, I wouldn’t be at the level I am now in my career. Thank you, and best of luck in your new role!
5. “Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
6. Thanks for your leadership, guidance, and mentorship, [name]!
7. Our office won’t be the same without you!
8. It’s been a real privilege to serve [company name] under your leadership. Things won’t be the same without you, [name].
9. You’re the best boss I’ve ever had and I’m sad to see you go!
10. Great managers like you are hard to come by, [name]. You will certainly be missed!
11. Wishing you all the best in your next leadership role – wherever that may be!
12. Regardless of what happens, I just hope that our next boss is as cool as you! Good luck, [name]!
13. If I have a million bosses during my career, none will be as good as you, [name]!
14. “They must often change, who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.” – Confucius
15. Here’s to many more successes in your managerial career!
16. Thanks for all the guidance and leadership you’ve shown thus far. I’m sure you’ll continue to impress your colleagues in your new role!
17. Dear [name]: You’ve been a true leader and an inspiration to everyone at [company name].
18. Thank you for your many years of leadership at [company name]. Your presence will be sorely missed!
19. I’ve had nothing but great experiences working under your guidance, [name], and any team is lucky to have you at the helm.
20. Our team has excelled under your leadership and supervision, and I’m sure your new teammates will appreciate you all the same.
Regardless of who is leaving and for what reason they’re moving on, it’s always a good idea to send a final farewell message to your bosses and managers– even if you don’t always see eye-to-eye with them. Not only does it show common professional courtesy on your behalf, but leaving on a positive note could help your future career if you ever need to try and get your old job back.
Funny Farewell Messages to the Boss
If your boss has a sense of humor, it might be a good idea to approach their departure with a comical one-liner, short joke, or even a HR meme. Make sure to tread carefully here, however, as telling the wrong joke at the wrong time might come across as obnoxious, offensive, or uncaring.
1. Things just won’t be the same with you. I, for one, think they’ll be even better!
2. With a little bit of luck, you’ll get fired at your new job and have no other choice but to come back here!
3. Dear [name]: You are absolutely irreplaceable. After all, how are we supposed to find another boss who shows up late, yells at us constantly, and never takes any responsibility for his actions?
4. I know it’s been a real pleasure working with me and the [company name] team, but I’m sure you’ll find some awesome employees at your new job, too!
5. For your last action as manager of [company name], I’d recommend giving us all a week’s paid vacation to properly mourn your departure.
6. I’ll try to remember you for the laughs and smiles instead of the screams and insults.
7. Now that you’re leaving, let me be the first to say – I want your office.
8. They told me one of our best managers is leaving the team soon. I’m still waiting for that day to come, but they said that you’re leaving, too. Farwell!
9. Dear [name]: You came to [company name] not as the boss we needed, but as the boss we deserved. Just kidding! I’m wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.
10. I’m not crying - you’re crying! Good luck at your new company, [name].
11. Since you’re leaving [company name], I guess we’ll finally have to get to work. You’ll be missed, [name]!
12. With a little luck, your new job will be even worse than this one – and you’ll have no choice but to come crawling back to us!
Just like their employees, most managers and bosses enjoy a good joke every once in a while – as long as it's appropriate. Managers who are leaving with a positive attitude and mindset, like those who are moving onto a better role with a different company, are more likely to appreciate your sense of humor than those who still hold a grudge. Funny leaving messages are also easier to judge than funny welcome messages given that you’ll have a better idea of the individual’s sense of humor.
Making the Farewell More Memorable
Sometimes, a simple goodbye isn’t enough to express your feelings. There are plenty of additional steps you can take, depending on your budget, to make your farewell message even more impactful.
Memorable Farewell Gifts
Employee appreciation gifts are welcome at any time and a meaningful leaving gift can leave a lasting positive impression. Customizable gifts can even be branded with your specific message, the recipient’s name, or even their company’s name, and it’s rather easy to find appropriate gifts for any budget. Some popular farewell gift ideas include:
- Greeting cards: When trying to deliver your message, consider writing farewell cards. Although they often include standard or generic messages of their own, they can be personalized and signed for a truly heartfelt gift.
- Coffee mugs and teacups: These gifts are an inexpensive way of saying goodbye.
- Jewelry: Watches, rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings are all great gift ideas for a beloved colleague. Although some companies use these gifts to celebrate certain milestones and anniversaries, they can be used for departures and resignations, too.
- Multi-function knives and multitools: Handy multitools and multi-function knives are great around the house, in the car, or even at the campsite.
- Yearbooks: Popular in schools all around the country, yearbooks can be used to preserve memories from you or a colleague’s career, too. For even better results, have all of their beloved coworkers sign the book to increase the sentimental value even further.
- Gift certificates: Including a gift certificate with your farewell message is a great way to buy your colleague or coworker a meal or give them some retail therapy at their favorite outlet. Gift cards and certificates are usually available in many different denominations, letting you match your exact budget without worrying about overspending.
It doesn’t matter if it’s big, small, cheap, or expensive – a farewell gift is always viewed as a nice gesture on your behalf. Pairing with a personalized farewell message to your manager or coworker is a great way to make the moment last a lifetime.
Memorable Farewell Events and Activities
Although it typically requires a little more effort than a simple farewell gift, putting in the time to plan a farewell event is one of the best ways you can say goodbye to a beloved coworker, colleague, or manager. While your words will likely fade over time, and gifts are easily lost, misplaced, or broken, a well-planned farewell event will create memories that will withstand the test of time. Some fun ideas for farewell events and activities include:
- Group luncheons or dinners: Schedule a group luncheon or dinner to say goodbye to a coworker or colleague in a formal setting. You might even consider picking up the bill – at least for the one who’s leaving.
- Mini-vacations: Everybody likes a vacation, but they’re even more enjoyable when they’re taken in the downtime between jobs. Without the worry of getting back to work the next day, everybody's free to enjoy themselves before saying goodbye.
- Day trips: Planning and scheduling a full vacation between several people isn’t always a viable solution, but day trips to a local park, sporting event, or concert is a fantastic way of giving a valued coworker their final sendoff.
There are plenty of events and activities you can use to make your farewell message to colleagues even more memorable for all participants. If possible, try to plan around your coworker’s interests and schedule – it’s their farewell party, after all.
Staying Professional When Saying Goodbye
Let’s face it: saying goodbye is tough. It doesn’t matter if you’re the one leaving or if you’re saying farewell to a beloved friend, colleague, or coworker – it’s difficult all the same. The process is made easier when friends and coworkers are moving onto bigger and better things, but this isn’t always the case.
Either way, making a kind gesture during this time helps everyone ease into the upcoming transition and make the most of what is to come.
