5 min read
What to write in a leaving card when 'good luck' is not enough.
A leaving card gives you little space and even less time. Name the thing that will feel different next week, then wish them well without guessing why they left or what comes next.
By BecauseYou Editorial Team · Published
A formula that fits a card
Use appreciation plus one detail plus an honest wish. The detail can be small. A lunch ritual, useful question, or way they helped new starters is enough.
- Name what matteredChoose a habit, contribution, or quality you personally saw.
- Prove itAdd one short moment or effect.
- Wish them wellKeep it neutral if you do not know their plans.
For a close coworker
The strongest line often names the ordinary access you are about to lose.
Original examples
“I will miss being able to ask whether an idea is nonsense before I show anyone else. Your honest answers saved me more often than you know.”
“You made Tuesday lunches the point where the week started making sense. I hope the new team knows how lucky it is.”
For a colleague you barely knew
Do not fake closeness. A modest observation feels more generous because the person did not know you had noticed.
Original examples
“We only shared one project, but your handover is still the example I use when someone asks what a good one looks like.”
“You always made room for the junior person to finish their answer. I noticed, and I will remember it.”
When the departure is awkward
Do not mention redundancy, conflict, health, or another sensitive reason unless the person has done so and you know they want it in writing. Focus on what you valued and keep the future open.
Original examples
“I valued how direct and thoughtful you were in our work together. I hope the next chapter gives you room to use those strengths.”
Generic versus specific
Generic: 'You were a great colleague and will be missed.' Specific: 'You were the person who checked the rota before taking leave so nobody inherited a mess. We will miss that quiet thoughtfulness.'
Common questions
- Is 'good luck in your next adventure' okay?
- It is harmless, but broad. Add one thing you appreciated before the wish so the message belongs to this person.
- What if I do not know why they are leaving?
- Do not guess. Wish them well for what comes next and keep the rest of the message about your shared work.