Leaving card messages

A leaving card is usually passed round the office in a big envelope, often with a collection for a present. Most people write a line or two. The ones that get read twice mention something real about the person, such as a project you worked on or a place you went together.

What to write in a leaving card

Start with their name. Then say one thing you'll remember or thank them for, and wish them well with what comes next. If you know where they're going, you can mention it. Sign off in a way that fits how well you know them, such as "All the best" or "Stay in touch".

You don't need to know someone well to write something kind. A line about how helpful they were in a meeting, or how they always held the lift, is enough.

Leaving card messages for a close colleague

• Ffion, I honestly don't know who I'll moan to about the printer now. Thank you for four years of lunches and lifts home in the rain. Don't be a stranger.
• Rob, sitting next to you has been the best part of this job. Good luck in Gloucester, and I expect a full report on the new canteen.
• Jo, you've taught me more than any training course. I'll miss our Friday walks to the bakery. Keep in touch, and let me know when you're back in town.
• I'm so pleased for you, Carl, even if I'm gutted you're going. Thanks for covering for me when the twins were poorly. I owe you several pints.

For someone you didn't know well

• Best of luck in the new job, Elaine. It's been a pleasure working with you on the Monday calls. All the best, Neil (Accounts).
• Wishing you all the best for the future, Mo. Thanks for always being so helpful when I had a question about the system.
• Good luck with the move to Southport. I hope it all goes smoothly and you settle in quickly. Best wishes, Sandra.
• Sorry we didn't get to work together more. Everyone says you'll be missed, and I can see why. Good luck, Ross.

Funny leaving card messages

Keep the joke kind and easy to understand for anyone who reads the card at home.

• Phil, who is going to fix the coffee machine by hitting it in exactly the right place now? We're doomed. Good luck, and thanks for everything.
• Kelly, I've been told I'm not allowed to hide your stapler any more, so this seems like the right time to confess. Best of luck in the new job.
• Janet, you're leaving us for a company with a free gym and a roof terrace. We understand, but we'll never forgive you. Have a brilliant time.
• Congratulations on the new job, Lewis. Please take the fish tank with you. Thanks for all the tea rounds.

Leaving card messages for your boss

• Thank you for being such a supportive manager, Lorna. You always had time for questions, even on the busiest days. Wishing you every success in the new role.
• Aled, thanks for giving me my first proper job and for trusting me with the Worcester account. I've learnt a huge amount from you. All the best.
• It's been a real pleasure working for you, Rukhsana. The team is in a much better place because of you. Good luck, and please come back for the Christmas do.
• Thank you for your advice and your excellent taste in team lunches. We'll miss you, Duncan. Best of luck.

For someone going on maternity or paternity leave

These cards are about a happy event, so the tone can be warm and excited. Stick to what they've shared, and keep health and birth details out of it.

• Congratulations, Fatima! Wishing you all the best for the months ahead. We'll miss you, but we can't wait to meet the new arrival.
• Enjoy every minute of your leave, Dan. We'll keep your desk warm and your plant alive, probably. Lots of love to you both.
• Wishing you, Mick and the bump all the very best, Shona. Put your feet up while you can, and send us plenty of photos.
• So excited for you both, Imran. Don't give work a second thought. We'll be here when you get back, with cake.

Signing a big group card

In a big office card, space runs out fast. A few things make it easier for everyone:

• Write small and keep to a line or two, unless you were close to them.
• Leave the middle of the card for the person organising it, or for their manager.
• Add your surname or team if there's more than one person with your first name.
• Don't write over the fold or right up against other messages.
• If the card is online, the same rules apply. Keep it short and say something personal.

If you're the one organising the card, pass it round early and give people a deadline. Pop a pen in the envelope and keep a list of who has signed.

For someone retiring after many years, there are more examples in retirement card messages. If you need to say something at the leaving do, read our guide to leaving speeches. Other ideas are on the card messages page.