Great Collection of Sample SMS/Messages

The average American changes jobs 12 times during their career, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Yet most professionals struggle to find the right words when it's time to say goodbye to colleagues who've become an integral part of their daily lives.

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The average American changes jobs 12 times during their career, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Yet most professionals struggle to find the right words when it's time to say goodbye to colleagues who've become an integral part of their daily lives.

I learned this firsthand when I left my corporate marketing role after five years. Standing in front of my laptop at 11 PM, I stared at a blank email for nearly an hour, trying to craft the perfect farewell message. The generic "it's been a pleasure working with you" felt hollow, but oversharing seemed unprofessional.

That experience taught me that departing messages aren't just polite gestures—they're strategic relationship investments. A thoughtful farewell can transform a work connection into a lifelong professional ally, while a poorly crafted message might close doors you didn't even know existed.

Formal Departing Messages for Direct Reports and Supervisors

Hierarchical workplace relationships require carefully balanced messages that acknowledge professional boundaries while expressing genuine gratitude.

Formal departing messages should acknowledge professional growth opportunities, express gratitude for mentorship received, and maintain appropriate workplace boundaries while keeping doors open for future networking.

• Dear [Name], I want to express my sincere gratitude for your exceptional leadership during my time here. Your mentorship has been instrumental in my professional development, and I will carry the lessons you've taught me throughout my career. Thank you for believing in my potential and providing opportunities for growth.
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• As I transition to my new role, I wanted to thank you for being such an inspiring supervisor. Your guidance has shaped my approach to [specific skill/area], and I'm grateful for the trust you placed in me with challenging projects. I look forward to staying connected professionally.
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• Thank you for creating an environment where I could thrive and contribute meaningfully to our team's success. Your open-door policy and constructive feedback helped me grow both personally and professionally. I'm excited about my next chapter and appreciate everything you've done.
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• I'm grateful for the opportunity to work under your leadership and learn from your expertise in [industry/field]. Your commitment to excellence has set a standard I'll strive to maintain throughout my career. Thank you for being such a positive influence on my professional journey.
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• Dear [Name], working with you has been one of the highlights of my tenure here. Your strategic thinking and collaborative approach have taught me valuable lessons about effective leadership. I appreciate your support and look forward to crossing paths again in the future.
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Tip: Consider sending a handwritten thank-you note alongside your digital message for supervisors who significantly impacted your career—premium stationery sets make lasting impressions.

Heartfelt Messages for Close Workplace Friends and Team Members

These messages balance personal connection with workplace appropriateness, perfect for colleagues who became genuine friends.

Messages for workplace friends can be more personal while remaining professional, focusing on shared experiences, mutual support, and commitment to maintaining friendships beyond the office environment.

• I can't believe it's time to say goodbye to my favorite work buddy! From coffee runs to late-night project sessions, you've made every day brighter. Our friendship means the world to me, and I'm excited to continue it outside these office walls. Let's definitely grab dinner soon!
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• Working alongside you has been such a joy. You've been my sounding board, my cheerleader, and my partner in crime during those stressful deadline weeks. Thank you for making work feel less like work and more like hanging out with a great friend. Can't wait for our first post-work happy hour!
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• You've been the best part of my workday, and I'm going to miss our daily chats and inside jokes terribly. Your friendship has made this job so much more enjoyable, and I'm grateful for all the laughs we've shared. Distance won't change our friendship—let's plan that weekend trip we've been talking about!
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• From day one, you welcomed me with open arms and became not just a colleague but a true friend. Your kindness, humor, and unwavering support have meant everything to me. I'm so lucky to have found a friend like you in this workplace. Our friendship is definitely continuing beyond these cubicle walls!
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• Thank you for being my work wife/husband and making every project more fun. Your creativity, positivity, and friendship have been constant sources of inspiration. I'm excited about my next adventure, but I'll miss our daily collaborations and coffee breaks. Let's make sure we stay in touch—I need my dose of your wisdom and humor!
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Thank You Messages for Team Support and Collaboration

These messages specifically acknowledge collective achievements and express gratitude for collaborative working relationships.

Team appreciation messages should recognize collective achievements, acknowledge individual contributions to group success, and express gratitude for collaborative working relationships and shared professional experiences.

• Dear team, working with such a talented and dedicated group has been incredibly rewarding. Together, we've achieved amazing results on [specific project/goal], and I'm proud of what we've accomplished. Thank you for your collaboration, creativity, and commitment to excellence. You're an extraordinary team!
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• I want to thank each of you for making our team such a dynamic and supportive environment. Your diverse perspectives and collaborative spirit have made every project better. From brainstorming sessions to final presentations, you've all contributed to our collective success. It's been an honor working alongside such professionals.
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• Our team's ability to tackle challenges together and celebrate victories as one has been truly inspiring. Thank you for your patience during my learning curve, your willingness to share knowledge, and your commitment to our shared goals. The skills and relationships I've gained here are invaluable.
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• Working with this team has taught me the true meaning of collaboration. Your support during challenging projects, your innovative solutions, and your positive attitudes have made every day enjoyable. Thank you for being such wonderful colleagues and for creating a workplace culture I'll always remember fondly.
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• To my amazing teammates: thank you for making work feel like a team sport where everyone wins. Your encouragement, expertise, and friendship have been the foundation of our success. I'm grateful for every shared deadline, every brainstorming session, and every celebration we've had together.
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Tip: Consider organizing a team lunch or coffee gathering as a farewell gesture—restaurant gift cards can help cover the cost while creating lasting memories.

Short and Sweet Departure Messages for Large Groups

Concise messages that feel personal despite reaching broad audiences, perfect for company-wide communications.

Short departure messages for large groups should be concise yet meaningful, expressing universal gratitude while maintaining a professional tone suitable for diverse workplace relationships and varying experience levels.

• Thank you all for making my time here so memorable. I've learned from each of you and am grateful for the opportunities to grow and contribute. Wishing everyone continued success!
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• It's been a privilege working with such talented professionals. Thank you for your collaboration, support, and friendship. I'm excited about my next chapter and will always remember my time here fondly.
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• Dear colleagues, thank you for creating such a positive and inspiring work environment. Your dedication and teamwork have made every day worthwhile. Best wishes to all of you!
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• I'm grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such amazing people. Thank you for your support, guidance, and friendship. Wishing everyone continued success and happiness!
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• Thank you for making this workplace feel like a community. I've enjoyed working with each of you and appreciate everything I've learned. Best of luck to everyone!
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• It's been wonderful being part of this team. Thank you for your collaboration, encouragement, and friendship. I'm excited about what's next and will miss working with all of you.
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• Dear team, thank you for making my time here so rewarding. Your professionalism and camaraderie have made every day enjoyable. Wishing you all continued success in your endeavors!
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Emotional Yet Professional Messages for Long-Term Colleagues

These messages honor significant professional relationships built over years of shared experiences and mutual growth.

Messages for long-term colleagues should acknowledge shared professional history, recognize mutual growth and support, and honor the lasting impact of extended working relationships and career milestones achieved together.

• After [number] years of working together, it's hard to imagine this place without you in it. We've weathered so many storms and celebrated countless victories together. Your mentorship and friendship have shaped my career in ways I'm still discovering. Thank you for being such an incredible colleague and friend.
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• Looking back on our time together, I'm amazed by how much we've both grown and accomplished. From those early days when we were figuring things out to becoming the seasoned professionals we are today, it's been quite a journey. Thank you for being my constant throughout all the changes and challenges.
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• We've shared so many professional milestones together—from our first big project wins to navigating organizational changes. Your wisdom, support, and friendship have been invaluable throughout my career here. I'm grateful for every lesson learned and every success we've shared.
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• It's rare to find someone who becomes both a trusted colleague and a genuine friend over the years. You've been my go-to person for advice, my collaborator on challenging projects, and my source of encouragement during tough times. Thank you for being such an important part of my professional journey.
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• After working together for so long, you've become more than a colleague—you're family. We've seen each other through career highs and lows, personal challenges, and professional triumphs. Your friendship and support have meant everything to me, and I'll carry our memories forward always.
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Digital Communication Departing Messages (Email, Slack, Teams)

Platform-specific messages optimized for different digital workplace communication channels and their unique formatting requirements.

Digital departing messages should be formatted appropriately for each platform, considering character limits, audience reach, and the formal or informal nature of the specific communication channel being used.

• Email Subject: Farewell and Thank You
  Dear Team, As I prepare for my next career adventure, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible experience I've had here. Your support, collaboration, and friendship have made every day meaningful. Thank you for being such amazing colleagues. Stay in touch! Best regards, [Your name]
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• Slack Channel Message:
  Hey everyone! 👋 My last day is approaching, and I wanted to thank you all for making this such an awesome place to work. From daily standups to late-night deployments, you've been the best team I could ask for. Let's stay connected—you can find me on LinkedIn! #farewell #grateful
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• Microsoft Teams Announcement:
  Team, it's been an incredible journey working with all of you. As I transition to my new role, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your support and collaboration. The projects we've completed together and the relationships we've built will always be special to me. Thank you for everything!
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• Professional Email Signature Update:
  Thank you for the wonderful memories and professional growth during my time here. I'm excited about my next chapter and grateful for the relationships I've built. Please stay in touch: [new email] | [LinkedIn profile] | [phone number]
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• Instant Message to Close Colleagues:
  Can't believe today's my last day! 😢 Just wanted to say thank you for being such an amazing colleague and friend. Our coffee chats and project collaborations have been the highlight of my time here. Let's definitely grab lunch soon to catch up! 🍽️
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Tip: Update your professional headshot before sending digital farewell messages—a quality webcam or smartphone camera stand can help you look polished across all platforms.

Industry-Specific Departure Messages and Considerations

Tailored messages that reflect the unique cultures, terminology, and professional norms of specific industries.

Industry-specific departure messages should reflect professional norms, terminology, and values unique to each sector while considering regulatory requirements and professional association relationships that may continue beyond employment.

• Healthcare:
  Dear colleagues, serving patients alongside such dedicated healthcare professionals has been deeply fulfilling. Your commitment to excellent patient care and your support of one another creates an environment where healing truly happens. Thank you for your collaboration and for upholding the highest standards of our profession.
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• Education:
  To my fellow educators, thank you for your dedication to student success and your commitment to lifelong learning. Working with professionals who share my passion for education has been incredibly rewarding. Your innovative teaching methods and collaborative spirit have inspired me daily. Best wishes for continued success in shaping young minds.
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• Technology:
  Team, it's been amazing building innovative solutions with such talented developers and engineers. From debugging sessions to product launches, your technical expertise and creative problem-solving have been inspiring. Thank you for fostering a culture of continuous learning and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
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• Finance:
  Dear colleagues, working in such a dynamic financial environment with professionals who maintain the highest ethical standards has been invaluable. Your analytical skills, attention to detail, and commitment to fiduciary responsibility have set an excellent example. Thank you for your collaboration and expertise.
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• Legal:
  To my esteemed colleagues, practicing law alongside such skilled attorneys has been both challenging and rewarding. Your dedication to justice, attention to detail, and commitment to client advocacy exemplify the best of our profession. Thank you for your mentorship and collaborative approach to complex legal matters.
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Messages for Different Departure Scenarios

Specialized messages tailored for specific departure circumstances, from retirement to career transitions.

Different departure scenarios require tailored messaging approaches, from celebrating retirement achievements to expressing excitement about new opportunities while maintaining professional relationships and acknowledging unique circumstances.

• Retirement:
  After [number] wonderful years, it's time for my next adventure—retirement! Thank you for making my career so fulfilling and memorable. The relationships I've built and the experiences we've shared will always hold a special place in my heart. Wishing you all continued success as I embark on this exciting new chapter.
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• Career Change:
  I'm thrilled to announce that I'm transitioning to a new industry to pursue my passion for [new field]. While I'm excited about this career change, I'll miss working with such talented professionals. Thank you for your support and for helping me develop skills that will serve me well in my new adventure.
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• Relocation:
  My family and I are relocating to [location], which means saying goodbye to this amazing workplace family. Distance may separate us geographically, but the relationships and memories we've built will remain close to my heart. Thank you for making my time here so special. Let's stay connected!
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• Internal Promotion:
  While I'm excited about my new role in [department], I'm sad to leave such an incredible team. Thank you for your support, collaboration, and friendship. I look forward to working with you in my new capacity and continuing the relationships we've built. Here's to new challenges and continued success together!
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• Contract Completion:
  As my contract comes to an end, I want to express my gratitude for welcoming me into your team. Working with such professionals has been a highlight of my consulting career. Thank you for your collaboration and for making me feel like part of the family during my time here.
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Follow-Up and Connection Maintenance Messages

Strategic messages for maintaining professional relationships after departure and creating future networking opportunities.

Post-departure connection messages should focus on maintaining professional relationships, creating networking opportunities, and establishing foundations for future collaboration and mutual support in career advancement.

• LinkedIn Connection Request:
  Hi [Name], I enjoyed working with you at [Company] and would love to stay connected as we continue our professional journeys. Your expertise in [specific area] was always impressive, and I'd appreciate staying in touch for future collaboration opportunities. Looking forward to connecting!
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• Follow-up After Starting New Role:
  Hi [Name], I wanted to update you on my new role at [Company] and thank you again for all your support during my transition. I'm settling in well and would love to hear how things are going with you. Perhaps we can grab coffee soon to catch up?
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• Industry Event Invitation:
  Hi [Name], I'll be attending [Industry Conference/Event] next month and remembered you mentioned interest in [relevant topic]. Would you like to meet up there? It would be great to catch up and hear about your latest projects. Let me know if you'll be there!
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• Referral Opportunity Message:
  Hi [Name], I came across an opportunity at [Company] that seems perfect for someone with your skills in [specific area]. I'd be happy to make an introduction if you're interested. Your expertise would be a great fit for their team. Let me know if you'd like more details!
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• Periodic Check-in:
  Hi [Name], I was thinking about our time working together on [specific project] and wanted to check in to see how you're doing. I hope things are going well at [Company]. I'd love to hear about your latest projects and catch up over coffee sometime soon!
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How to Write Authentic Departing Messages That Reflect Your Voice

Creating genuine farewell messages requires balancing professionalism with personal authenticity while considering your audience and company culture.

Start by identifying your natural communication style—are you more formal or casual, detailed or concise, emotional or reserved? Your departure message should feel like an extension of how you've communicated throughout your tenure. If you've always been the colleague who sends detailed emails, don't suddenly become overly brief. If you're naturally warm and personal, don't force yourself into corporate-speak.

Consider your audience carefully when crafting messages. A message to your immediate team can be more personal than one going to the entire company. Think about shared experiences, inside jokes (appropriate ones), and specific contributions you can acknowledge. Generic messages feel impersonal and forgettable.

Timing matters as much as content. Send your departing message during your final week, but not on your last day when people might be too busy to respond thoughtfully. According to Harvard Business Review research, Tuesday through Thursday are optimal days for important workplace communications.

Include specific details that show you've been paying attention. Mention particular projects, acknowledge individual contributions, or reference shared challenges you've overcome together. These details transform a standard farewell into a memorable message that recipients will appreciate.

Finally, consider your delivery method carefully. While email remains the most common approach, don't underestimate the power of handwritten notes for key relationships, video messages for remote teams, or even small group conversations for close colleagues.

Remember to proofread carefully—your departure message might be one of the last impressions you leave, so ensure it's polished and professional. Keep copies of your messages for future reference, as they can serve as templates for future career transitions.

The most authentic departing messages come from the heart while respecting professional boundaries. Don't be afraid to show genuine emotion, but maintain appropriate workplace decorum. Your goal is to leave people with positive memories and open doors for future professional relationships.

A thoughtful departing message isn't just a goodbye—it's an investment in your professional network and personal brand. Take time to craft messages that reflect your authentic voice while honoring the relationships you've built throughout your career.

Remember that great departing messages often lead to lasting professional relationships, referrals, and opportunities you never expected. The colleague you thank today might become your biggest advocate tomorrow. Make your words count, customize each message thoughtfully, and leave with grace and gratitude.

Legal reminder: Ensure all departure communications comply with your company's policies regarding confidentiality, non-disclosure agreements, and professional conduct standards.

What should I include in a professional departing message?

Include gratitude for opportunities, specific achievements or memories, well-wishes for colleagues, and your contact information for future networking while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.

How long should a workplace farewell message be?

Keep messages concise—2-3 paragraphs for individual colleagues, 1-2 paragraphs for large groups. Focus on meaningful content rather than length to ensure your message is read and remembered.

When is the best time to send departure messages?

Send messages during your final week, preferably Tuesday through Thursday, but avoid your last day when colleagues may be too busy to respond thoughtfully or meaningfully.

Should I send different messages to different people?

Yes, customize messages based on your relationship with each recipient. Close colleagues deserve more personal messages, while company-wide communications should maintain professional tone and broader appeal.

How do I maintain professional relationships after leaving?

Connect on LinkedIn, send periodic check-ins, share relevant opportunities, attend industry events together, and offer genuine support for their career goals and professional development.