WORDS FOR THE MOMENT · 5 MIN READ
What to write in a leaving card for a colleague
The best leaving message sounds like it could only have come from you. One specific memory or thank you usually means more than a grand speech. Use these examples as a starting point, then add the detail that belongs to your colleague.
Published 18 October 2026 · Letterfloret
A simple way to start
Think of one thing they changed for the better: a tricky project they rescued, the way they welcomed new people, or the ritual everyone will miss. Then write three parts: thank them, name the detail, and wish them well.
For example: ‘Thank you for making Monday mornings easier. I’ll miss our coffee catch-ups and your calm advice. Your new team is lucky to have you.’ Keep it natural; you do not need to sound like a greeting card.
Short leaving card messages
- “It has been a joy working with you. Thank you for everything, and good luck with what comes next.”
- “We will miss your kindness, your ideas and the way you always made time to help. Keep in touch.”
- “What a difference you have made here. Wishing you a brilliant next chapter.”
- “Thank you for being such a lovely teammate. They are lucky to have you.”
Warm messages for someone you know well
- “You made the busy days feel lighter and the good days even better. I will miss our chats and your generous spirit.”
- “From that first chaotic project to our last team lunch, it has been a privilege to work alongside you. I am cheering you on.”
- “Your patience taught me more than any training session. Thank you for believing in me when I was finding my feet.”
- “The office will feel different without you. Please know how many people you have helped along the way.”
A little humour, if it fits
A joke works best when it is kind and the colleague will recognise it. Avoid teasing about pay, performance or why they are leaving, especially in a card the whole team can read.
- “Who is going to explain the printer to the rest of us now? We will miss you. Go be brilliant.”
- “I promise to keep your favourite mug safe. No promises about the biscuits. Good luck!”
- “Your new team has no idea how good their spreadsheets are about to become.”
If you are signing from the whole team
Let each person add their own words before someone writes the final group note. A shared card feels more personal when it holds different voices, not twenty versions of ‘all the best’.
- “Thank you for all the care, laughter and energy you brought to our team. We will miss you and cannot wait to hear about your next adventure. From all of us.”
Before you send it
Check the spelling of their name, leave out private details they would not want shared, and read your message once as if they were opening it on a difficult day. If it still sounds like you, it is ready.