Last updated: 26th Sep 2024
This is a significant change for your colleague. You want to give them the best sendoff. You don’t want to part ways with a message that sounds insincere, sarcastic or generic. You wouldn’t bid farewell to your CEO with “Thanks for all your hard work; your efforts didn’t go unnoticed.”
In this guide, I share forty farewell message examples that you can use in different scenarios where the power balance varies.
(Related: 100 Thank You Message Ideas For Colleagues).
Why Should I Send A Farewell Message?
Have you ever left a company and been surprised at the responses of certain colleagues? Some of them seem indifferent – and that’s life.
People are so wrapped up in their own lives that it’s easy to forget about others.
But that doesn’t stop the person who is leaving from feeling undervalued. This is a big change for them – they may have lots of doubts, and they’ll find your words encouraging.
It pains me to this day when I recall how one man who had dedicated almost half a century to working for the same company was treated.
On his final day before retirement, his manager organised a small gathering and handed over a token bunch of wilting service station flowers. We gave him a round of applause. Then raced back to our desks.
There was no heartfelt farewell message, no farewell card, and no farewell party – just an impromptu goodbye. And I suspect he’s spent the early part of his retirement wondering why he had sacrificed so much.
So, why should you send a farewell message? For the same reason you would like to receive one if you were to leave your existing role.
Sending a farewell message validates your relationship – and the sacrifices they have made.
It’s your opportunity to make the departing employee feel seen and heard.
1. Farewell Message To Valued Team Member.
These examples of farewell messages can be sent to those you have regular interaction with, such as a co-worker or one of your direct reports.
- It’s a huge loss for us and a great gain for your new employer. I’ll miss your professionalism and your ability to help others succeed. Wishing you the very best of luck in the next chapter of your career.
- I’m devastated that you’re leaving, but I’m excited about what your new role means for your career. It’s a solid step up, and I know you’ll smash it out of the park.
- You’ve well and truly left your stamp on this team. Although I’m sad you’re leaving, I love that you have secured a new opportunity at [insert company name here]. Show them what you’re made of.
- The HR team will never be able to replace you! I’ll miss our 8 pm productivity sprints. Call me if you need anything – I couldn’t have asked for a better teammate.
2. Farewell Message To Your Line Manager.
Here are some examples of farewell messages you can send to your line manager that respect professional boundaries.
- Not only a strong leader but also a relatable, humble, generous human. You’ve truly raised the benchmark for leaders in this place. Thank you for guiding me through some of the most challenging moments in my career.
- In twenty years I’ll look back on this chapter of my working life and remember just how pivotal it was – and that’s all because of you. Thank you for pushing me to be my best.
- Thanks for teaching me everything I know about [inseart your profession – e.g., marketing] and inspiring me to be the best version of myself. I’ll never forget just how instrumental you’ve been in my development and growth.
- This place will not be the same without you. It’s been an honour.
3. Farewell Message To A Senior Leader.
Here are some farewell messages you can send to a senior leader who leaves the company.
- Great leaders are rare, and you’re one of them. Although I’m disheartened about you leaving, I’m grateful to have learnt profound lessons from you along the way. All the best with your new job.
- I’ll never forget how you chose the path least trodden and guided us through challenging periods with confidence and poise. Thank you for setting such an excellent example for me to aspire to.
- I feel privileged to have worked on your team and am confident that you’ll make a significant impact in your new role. All the best.
4. Farewell Message To Colleague Being Laid Off.
Here are some farewell messages you can send when a colleague has been fired or made redundant. Resist the temptation to rationalise or minimise. Your colleague needs to be heard.
- I want you to know that you can call on me for support. I’ll call you in a few days to ensure you’re OK.
- This is such awful news, and I want you to know it was felt across the entire team. Losing you isn’t something we were ready for. Wherever you are, whatever you do, call us if you need a friendly ear. We’ve got your back.
5. Farewell Message To Intern.
Here are some farewell messages you can send to interns and temporary workers.
Sending one of these can be particularly tricky because you may be bidding farewell to someone who might have expected an offer of a permanent position upon completion of their contract.
If your farewell message is overly complimentary, they’ll wonder why they haven’t been offered a permanent position.
- Thank you for making such a strong impact. We’re very privileged to have had you on our team, and we wish you well in your next role.
- You are very impressive, and I’m confident your next employer will see how much value you bring. Thank you for being a part of our team.
- While your time with us is coming to an end, we know that you have a bright future ahead. During your time here, we’ve seen how much you’ve grown, and we hope the skills and knowledge you’ve learnt will serve you well in your next adventure.
- In your short time working here, you’ve made a strong impression on the senior leadership team. In particular, we have all been impressed with your level of maturity and your resolve. We wish you the very best in your next role.
6. Farewell Message To Colleague Retiring.
Here are some farewell messages for colleagues who are riding off into the sunset, never to return to work. It’s fine to add a splash of sentimentality to these goodbye messages.
- No more rush hour, no more deadlines, no more late nights. Congratulations on reaching this milestone. I can’t wait to hear what adventures you get up to next. Hit the hell out of that snooze button tomorrow. You’ve earned it.
- You’ve left a stamp on this team that cannot be erased. I know you’ll be feeling mixed emotions right now, but after so many years of hard work, you’ve totally earned a break. Thank you for all your guidance.
7. Farewell Message To Colleague Moving Away.
Moving away to start a new life or a dream job warrants a farewell message that is heartfelt and personal.
- Thank you for being such an exceptional colleague and, more importantly, a trusted friend. When you spend so much time with a person at work, they become an extension of you – and I’m totally not ready for you to leave. But you deserve the best! Thank you for everything.
- You’re one of life’s good ones. Keep being you, unapologetically. We’ll miss you so much.
- Change is scary and not for the faint of heart, and here you are taking a huge leap into the unknown without a trace of fear in your demeanour. Brave, intelligent, and with an enviable work ethic, I’m not surprised that it’s you of all people carving out a new path. Good luck!
8. Farewell Message To Colleague Leaving Due To Ill Health.
Your goal is to make the colleague feel less alone. Health quibbles show a person who their real friends are, and this is your opportunity to step up.
Don’t send meaningless, generic cliches like “sending you lots of love” and props like “you’ve got this”. Offer a real message of support by offering your time, ear and ability to empathise.
- The team and I are in awe of your resilience and ability to juggle life’s challenges while maintaining poise and professionalism. I will continue to support you through this difficult time – and will be in touch soon.
- You’ve gone above and beyond for this team, and it’s now our time to do the same for you. We will reach out shortly to help you heal.
Be mindful that if someone has a terminal illness, you should omit sentences like “Wishing you a speedy recovery.” That would be insensitive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Farewell Messages.
Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you craft the perfect farewell message.
What Is The Ideal Length For A Farewell Message?
A goodbye message can be anywhere between 50 and 300 words, but your working relationship with the person will determine the depth you go into when writing. This isn’t gospel, but here’s how that could change depending on the recipient and how often you interact with them:
- Fringe colleague (interaction – monthly): Up to 100 words.
- Wider team member (interaction – weekly): Between 100 to 200 words.
- Immediate team member (interaction – daily): Around 150 to 300 words.
Remember, the purpose of the message is to convey your thoughts and feelings, but you don’t want them to lose interest. And if you don’t interact with this person at least every month, should you even be sending them a farewell message?
How Can I Make My Farewell Message Sound Genuine?
If there is one nugget to take away, it would be this: share a personal story or a fond memory in your farewell message. We feel valued when we know we’ve had a positive impact on others.
It makes us feel good to know that someone remembers something special about one of our interactions.
How Do I Say Goodbye To Colleagues?
If you prefer to say goodbye in person, then it’s important to maintain professionalism. Remember, the person leaving will have probably had similar conversations countless times.
They may be overwhelmed with the attention and endless questions. If you want this to sound authentic, don’t write a script – just make sure you cover the main points:
- Express your sadness that they’re leaving.
- Thank them for their contributions and impact.
- Wish them well in their next adventure.
What about a hug to signal the end? Well, societal norms have allegedly in the last decade.
According to Safe Work Australia, unwelcome hugs in the workplace could constitute sexual harassment.
Really?
Resist the fear-mongering.
Do not listen to nonsense.
Remain a real human being.
Don’t become a corporate drone.
Hug away if you think this is appropriate.
When Should I Send A Farewell Message?
Be sure to send your message in the colleague’s final week at work. You might be leaving it a little late, however, if you leave it to the last day.
The colleague will be handing in their devices. Not only that but they may have quiet quit before their final day and have resolved not to bother checking any emails.
Send your farewell message two to three days before their great escape.
Final Word On Writing A Farewell Message.
Saying goodbye is never easy. It’s a reminder to us all of the fleeting passage of time and the temporary nature of our existence. Deep, I know, but remember that you’ve experienced this feeling, too, perhaps when you left a previous job or when you graduated from university.
Be mindful of the range of emotions your colleague will be experiencing – fear, excitement, regret, sadness, apprehension. Your farewell wishes will alleviate their anxieties.
Tommy
