Great Collection of Sample SMS/Messages

Last month, I watched our entire marketing team struggle to find the right words when our beloved project manager announced her departure. The awkward silence in that conference room reminded me why workplace goodbyes feel so challenging—we want to express genuine appreciation without crossing professional boundaries.

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Last month, I watched our entire marketing team struggle to find the right words when our beloved project manager announced her departure. The awkward silence in that conference room reminded me why workplace goodbyes feel so challenging—we want to express genuine appreciation without crossing professional boundaries.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Americans change jobs an average of 12 times during their careers, making farewell messages an inevitable part of professional life. Yet most of us freeze when it's time to craft that perfect goodbye.

This comprehensive guide provides 150+ ready-to-use farewell message templates for every workplace scenario. Whether you're saying goodbye to a departing teammate, honoring a retiring leader, or announcing company-wide transitions, you'll find the perfect words to convey sincerity without awkwardness.

Farewell Messages for Departing Team Members

When a colleague leaves for new opportunities, your message should celebrate their growth while acknowledging their contributions to your shared work experience.

Effective farewell messages for departing team members balance personal appreciation with professional respect, focusing on contributions and future success rather than sadness about departure.

• "Your innovative approach to problem-solving made every project better. Wishing you incredible success in your next adventure—they're lucky to have you!"
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• "Thank you for being such a supportive teammate and bringing positive energy to our daily work. Your new company is gaining someone truly special."
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• "Working alongside you taught me so much about collaboration and creativity. Best wishes as you embark on this exciting new chapter of your career!"
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• "Your dedication to excellence inspired all of us. I'm excited to see what amazing things you'll accomplish in your new role. Stay in touch!"
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• "From brainstorming sessions to deadline crunches, you made work feel less like work. Congratulations on your new opportunity—you've earned it!"
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• "Your mentorship and friendship meant more than you know. Wishing you all the best as you take on new challenges and opportunities ahead."
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• "Thank you for always being willing to help and share your expertise. Your new team is incredibly fortunate to have your talent and positive attitude."
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• "Your contributions to our team's success will be remembered long after you've moved on. Here's to your continued growth and achievement!"
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Tip: Consider pairing your farewell message with a personalized desk organizer or planner to help them stay organized in their new role.

Goodbye Messages for Team Leaders and Managers

Farewell messages for departing supervisors require extra thoughtfulness, acknowledging their leadership impact while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.

Farewell messages for team leaders should emphasize their professional impact, mentorship qualities, and the positive changes they brought to the team or organization.

• "Your leadership style created an environment where everyone could thrive. Thank you for believing in our potential and guiding our professional growth."
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• "Under your guidance, I learned not just technical skills but valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork. Wishing you continued success in your new role."
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• "Your open-door policy and supportive approach made challenging projects feel manageable. Your new organization is gaining an exceptional leader."
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• "Thank you for championing our ideas and helping us reach our career goals. Your mentorship has been invaluable to my professional development."
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• "Your strategic vision and people-first approach transformed our department. We're grateful for your leadership and wish you all the best ahead."
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• "Working under your leadership taught me the importance of clear communication and team collaboration. Thank you for being an inspiring manager."
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• "Your ability to balance high standards with genuine care for your team made you an outstanding leader. Congratulations on your well-deserved promotion!"
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• "Thank you for creating a workplace culture where innovation and respect flourished. Your leadership legacy will continue to inspire us."
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Farewell Messages from Leaders to Their Teams

Departing managers should focus on team accomplishments and individual growth while expressing confidence in the team's continued success.

Leaders saying goodbye to their teams should focus on team accomplishments, individual growth, and express confidence in the team's continued success.

• "Leading this incredible team has been the highlight of my career. Your dedication and talent made every challenge an opportunity for growth."
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• "I'm proud of what we've accomplished together and confident that your skills and teamwork will drive continued success. Thank you for your trust and support."
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• "Watching each of you develop professionally has been deeply rewarding. You have the tools and talent to achieve anything you set your minds to."
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• "Our team's achievements speak to your commitment and collaboration. I'm excited to see the innovative solutions you'll create in the future."
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• "Thank you for making leadership feel like partnership. Your expertise and enthusiasm made complex projects feel achievable and enjoyable."
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• "The respect and dedication you've shown made managing this team a privilege. I have complete confidence in your ability to excel under new leadership."
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• "Your willingness to embrace challenges and support one another created a truly exceptional work environment. Keep pushing boundaries and achieving greatness."
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• "I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with such talented professionals. Your future success is inevitable—I can't wait to hear about your achievements."
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Company-Wide Farewell Announcements

Formal organizational communications about departures require professional tone while acknowledging contributions and providing clear transition information.

Company-wide farewell announcements should maintain professional tone while acknowledging contributions and providing clear information about transitions and coverage.

• "We announce the departure of [Name], who has served as [Position] for [Duration]. Their contributions to [Department/Project] have been invaluable to our organization's success."
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• "Please join us in thanking [Name] for their dedicated service and wishing them well in their new role at [Company]. [Transition details] will ensure continued operations."
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• "[Name] will be transitioning from their role as [Position] effective [Date]. We appreciate their professional excellence and commitment to our team's objectives."
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• "We're grateful for [Name]'s leadership in [Specific area] and wish them success in their new endeavor. [Coverage information] during the transition period."
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• "[Name] has accepted a position with [Company/Industry] and will conclude their tenure on [Date]. Their expertise in [Area] significantly advanced our strategic goals."
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• "Please join us in congratulating [Name] on their new opportunity while thanking them for their valuable contributions to our organization's growth and success."
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• "We announce [Name]'s departure from [Position] effective [Date]. Their professional dedication and collaborative spirit have been assets to our entire organization."
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• "[Name] will be leaving their role as [Position] to pursue new opportunities. We appreciate their service and wish them continued professional success."
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Tip: Consider organizing a group gift like a high-quality leather portfolio or executive pen set to commemorate their professional achievements.

Farewell Messages for Retirement Celebrations

Retirement farewells deserve special recognition, celebrating career milestones and acknowledging the retiree's lasting professional legacy.

Retirement farewell messages should celebrate career achievements, acknowledge the retiree's legacy, and express genuine excitement for their next life chapter.

• "Congratulations on an incredible [Number] year career! Your expertise and mentorship have shaped countless professionals. Enjoy this well-deserved retirement adventure."
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• "Your decades of dedication built the foundation for our current success. Thank you for your service and wisdom. May retirement bring you joy and relaxation."
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• "Watching you balance professional excellence with genuine care for colleagues has been inspiring. Wishing you a retirement filled with happiness and new discoveries."
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• "Your career achievements speak to your commitment and expertise. Thank you for being a mentor and role model. Enjoy every moment of your retirement!"
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• "From [Early achievement] to [Recent accomplishment], your career has been remarkable. We're excited for you to start this new chapter of life and adventure."
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• "Your institutional knowledge and professional wisdom will be deeply missed. Congratulations on reaching this milestone—retirement is going to be amazing!"
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• "Thank you for [Specific contribution] and for being such a positive influence on our workplace culture. Your retirement is well-earned and long overdue!"
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• "Your legacy of excellence and integrity will continue to inspire future generations. Wishing you health, happiness, and fulfillment in your retirement years."
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Farewell Lunch and Gathering Messages

Event-related farewell messages should create enthusiasm for the celebration while honoring the departing colleague in an inclusive, celebratory manner.

Farewell lunch messages should create enthusiasm for the gathering while honoring the departing colleague in a celebratory, inclusive manner.

• "Join us for a farewell lunch celebrating [Name]'s contributions to our team! [Date, Time, Location]. Let's send them off with great food and fond memories."
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• "You're invited to [Name]'s farewell gathering on [Date] at [Time]. Come share stories, laughs, and best wishes as we celebrate their next adventure."
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• "Let's give [Name] a proper send-off! Join us for lunch on [Date] to celebrate their achievements and wish them well in their new role."
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• "Farewell party for [Name] - [Date] at [Location]. Bring your appetite and your favorite memories to share. Let's make this celebration memorable!"
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• "[Name] has been an amazing colleague and friend. Join us on [Date] for a farewell lunch to show our appreciation and share our best wishes."
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• "We're hosting a farewell celebration for [Name] on [Date]. Come enjoy good food, great company, and the chance to wish them well personally."
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• "Save the date: [Name]'s farewell lunch is [Date] at [Location]. Let's come together to celebrate their contributions and future success."
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• "Join us in honoring [Name]'s time with our team. Farewell lunch on [Date] - bring your best wishes and your biggest appetite!"
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Short and Simple Farewell Messages

Concise farewells work best when they're specific about one meaningful contribution rather than using generic well-wishes.

Short farewell messages work best when they're specific about one meaningful contribution or quality rather than using generic well-wishes.

• "Your positive attitude made every day brighter. Best wishes ahead!"
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• "Thank you for always being so helpful and kind. Good luck!"
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• "Your expertise made our projects better. Wishing you continued success!"
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• "Great working with you. Your new team is lucky to have you!"
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• "Thanks for being an awesome colleague. Best of luck in your new role!"
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• "Your creativity and insight will be missed. Congratulations on the new opportunity!"
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• "Working with you was a pleasure. Wishing you all the best!"
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• "Thank you for your collaboration and friendship. Good luck ahead!"
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• "Your dedication inspired us all. Best wishes for your next adventure!"
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• "Thanks for making work more enjoyable. Congratulations and good luck!"
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Emotional and Heartfelt Farewell Messages

Deeper farewell messages for meaningful professional relationships should balance emotional sincerity with workplace appropriateness.

Heartfelt farewell messages should balance emotional sincerity with workplace appropriateness, focusing on professional growth and personal qualities.

• "Your mentorship changed my career trajectory in ways I'm still discovering. Thank you for believing in me when I didn't believe in myself. Stay in touch!"
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• "Working with you taught me that professional excellence and genuine kindness aren't mutually exclusive. Your impact on my growth has been profound."
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• "You've been more than a colleague—you've been a source of inspiration and support. I'm grateful for your friendship and excited about your future."
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• "Your ability to find solutions while maintaining compassion for people made you an exceptional leader. Thank you for showing me what authentic leadership looks like."
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• "The lessons you taught me about perseverance and integrity will stay with me throughout my career. Your influence has been truly transformative."
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• "Your departure feels like losing a mentor, collaborator, and friend all at once. Thank you for making my professional journey richer and more meaningful."
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• "You created a safe space for growth and learning that I'll always treasure. Your support during challenging times meant everything to me."
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• "Your wisdom, patience, and encouragement helped me become a better professional and person. I'm honored to have worked alongside you."
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Digital Farewell Messages and Email Templates

Electronic farewell communications should be formatted appropriately for the platform while maintaining professional courtesy standards.

Digital farewell messages should be formatted appropriately for the platform while maintaining the same professional courtesy as in-person goodbyes.

• "Subject: Thank you and farewell! Hi [Name], I wanted to reach out before you transition to your new role. Your contributions to our team have been invaluable, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with you. Wishing you continued success and happiness in your next chapter. Please keep in touch! Best regards, [Your name]"
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• "LinkedIn Post: Excited to congratulate [Name] on their new role at [Company]! Working with them taught me the value of [specific skill/quality]. Their next team is incredibly fortunate. Wishing you all the best, [Name]! #ProfessionalGrowth #TeamAppreciation"
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• "Slack Message: Hey team! 👋 As [Name] transitions to their new role, I wanted to share how much their collaboration and expertise meant to our projects. Let's all wish them the best in their next adventure! 🎉"
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• "Video Message Script: Hi [Name]! I wanted to send you a quick video message to say thank you for being such an amazing colleague. Your [specific contribution] made such a difference to our team's success. I'm excited to see what you accomplish in your new role. Best wishes and please stay in touch!"
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• "Email Template: Dear [Name], As you prepare for your transition, I wanted to express my appreciation for your professionalism and collaboration. Your expertise in [area] significantly contributed to our team's achievements. I wish you tremendous success in your new position and hope our paths cross again in the future. Sincerely, [Your name]"
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Tip: Consider recommending a quality webcam or wireless headset to help them excel in virtual meetings at their new company.

How to Write Your Own Personalized Farewell Message

Creating authentic farewell messages requires understanding your relationship dynamic and choosing elements that reflect genuine appreciation.

Start by identifying your relationship level—are you close collaborators, casual colleagues, or somewhere in between? This determines your tone and message length. Include specific examples of the person's contributions or impact rather than generic praise.

Focus on positive memories and professional growth you've witnessed. Express genuine wishes for their future success, mentioning specific skills or qualities that will serve them well. Keep your message length appropriate for the medium and relationship—a text message should be concise while an email allows for more detail.

Always proofread for professional language and spelling. Even heartfelt messages should maintain workplace appropriateness. Consider your company culture when deciding how personal or formal to be.

Remember that the best farewell messages feel authentic to your voice while honoring the recipient's contributions. Don't force emotion you don't feel, but do acknowledge the professional relationship you've shared.

Finally, consider the timing and method of delivery. A private message might be more appropriate for personal sentiments, while public acknowledgments work well for celebrating achievements everyone witnessed.

These farewell message templates provide the foundation for meaningful workplace goodbyes that strengthen professional relationships even as they end. Remember that personalization makes any template more impactful—add specific details about shared experiences or particular contributions that made working together memorable. The goal isn't perfection but authenticity and respect.

Choose messages that match your relationship level and workplace culture. A heartfelt goodbye can leave lasting positive impressions and maintain valuable professional connections for years to come. Ensure your farewell messages comply with company communication policies and maintain appropriate professional boundaries in all workplace interactions.

What should I include in a farewell message for a colleague?

Include specific contributions they made, express genuine appreciation for working together, and wish them success in their future endeavors.

How long should a professional farewell message be?

Keep messages between 50-200 words depending on your relationship level and the communication method you're using for delivery.

Is it appropriate to get emotional in workplace farewell messages?

Light emotional content is acceptable when balanced with professionalism, focusing on work impact rather than personal feelings.

Should I send farewell messages to everyone who's leaving?

Send messages to colleagues you've worked with directly; company-wide departures may only require participation in group cards or events.

What's the best way to deliver a farewell message?

Choose email for formal relationships, in-person for close colleagues, or participate in group cards for broader team acknowledgments.