How to Write a Farewell Email to Employees: Great Practices and Messages to Say Goodbye
Goodbyes at work can be a bit like office coffee—sometimes smooth, sometimes bitter, and occasionally just downright weird. But a farewell email? That’s your chance to leave on a high note, no awkward small talk is required.
Whether you're off to a shiny new job, taking a well-earned retirement, or finally pursuing your dream of becoming a professional cat-sitter (we fully support this), a well-crafted farewell email helps you wrap things up neatly. It’s your moment to say thanks, reflect on the good times, and leave your colleagues with warm fuzzies—not just an empty desk.
And because we know writing these emails can be trickier than choosing the perfect leaving card message, we’ve got your back. This Thankbox guide will walk you through the essentials of a great farewell email, complete with handy templates to make your exit as smooth as possible.
Let’s get started—no tissues required (well, hopefully).
What is a farewell email to employees & why is it important?
Think of a farewell email as the office equivalent of signing off with a classy mic drop—leaving on good terms, with a smile, and ensuring no one secretly celebrates your departure. Whether you’ve been with your team for years or only a short while, taking the time to craft a thoughtful message shows appreciation, professionalism, and gratitude.
It’s your way to:
Say a Proper Thanks – Because let’s be honest, you didn’t survive all those Monday morning meetings alone. A farewell email lets you give credit where it’s due and acknowledge the colleagues who made your time worthwhile.
Keep Doors Open – Just because you’re leaving doesn’t mean it’s goodbye forever. Your old colleagues could be your future contacts, mentors, or even the ones who refer you for your dream job down the line. Saying goodbye the right way helps preserve the connections you’ve built, keeping the door open for future collaborations or friendships. A farewell email is a step toward leaving on good terms.
Give a Sense of Closure – For both you and your team, a farewell email provides a sense of closure. This is your official way of letting people know where you're headed next (without them having to snoop on LinkedIn).
Avoid Office Gossip – Departures can sometimes feel abrupt or awkward, but a farewell email helps ease the transition. Just think about it—if you don’t send a farewell email, Karen from accounting will make up her own version of why you left. (No, Karen, I am not quitting to become a full-time influencer). By communicating openly and positively, you can leave behind a legacy of professionalism and respect.
Bottom line? A well-written farewell email isn’t just good manners—it’s a smart move. So, let’s make sure yours is a good one.
How to write a farewell email to your employees
Crafting the perfect farewell email is like making a good cup of tea—get the balance right, and it’s comforting, warm, and leaves everyone feeling good. Mess it up, and, well... let’s avoid that, shall we?
Here’s how to get started:
1. Start with a warm greeting
First things first—greet your audience. If you’re leaving a close-knit team, a personal “Hey everyone” works great. If you’re addressing a bigger group, stick with “Dear Team” or “Hello everyone.”
2. Announce your departure
Let’s not make it weird. Clearly mention that you’re leaving and (if you’re comfortable) why. Keep it light—no dramatic monologues needed.
Example: “As some of you may know, the time has come for me to pack up my desk and say goodbye. My time with [Company Name] is coming to an end as I embark on a new adventure.”
3. Say your thank-yous
Now’s your chance to get sentimental. Give a shoutout to the amazing people you’ve worked with and let them know how much you’ve appreciated their support, guidance and camaraderie. Make sure to be specific about what you’ve valued during your time at the organisation, such as teamwork, mentorship or shared success.
Example: “I’m incredibly grateful for the collaboration and support I’ve experienced here. Working alongside such talented and driven individuals has been a true privilege.”
Say Goodbye the Right Way with Thankbox!
Ready to make your farewell memorable? Create a Thankbox today to send personalised messages, share memories, and celebrate your professional journey with your team in a meaningful way!
4. Share reflections and highlights
People love nostalgia—it’s why we still sing along to 90s hits at office parties. So, reflect on your experience and share any memorable moments or key lessons you’ve learned. This adds a personal touch and shows that your time with the team had an impact on you.
Example:
“I will never forget the time we pulled off [Project Name] against all odds—or that time we accidentally ordered 300 donuts for a meeting of 10 people. These moments will always remind me of the strong sense of teamwork we built here”
5. Give them a way to keep in touch
If you actually want to stay connected (no pressure!), share your email or LinkedIn. No need to give out your number unless you want surprise 3 a.m. texts about work.
Example: “I’d love to stay in touch! You can reach me at [[email protected]] or connect with me on LinkedIn at [LinkedIn URL].”
6. End on a positive note
Wrap it up with a positive and encouraging send-off. No sad violins—just good vibes. Wish the team continued success and express your confidence in their abilities.
Example: “I’m confident this team will continue achieving incredible things. Thank you all for making my time here unforgettable.”
7. Proofread before you hit send
One last thing—give your email a quick proofread. Typos happen, but let’s not make “I’ll miss you all” accidentally say “I’ll mess you all.” Big difference.
And there you have it—a farewell email that’s warm, heartfelt, and (most importantly) not painfully awkward.
Example farewell email templates
We know, writing farewell emails isn’t exactly thrilling, but the good news? We’ve done the hard work for you. Pick the tone that suits you best, tweak it as needed, and hit send.
The professional farewell email
Subject: A Heartfelt Thank You & Farewell
“Dear Team, As my time with [Company Name] comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to thank each of you for the incredible journey we’ve shared. Working with such talented and supportive colleagues has been a highlight of my career.
I will always appreciate the support, teamwork, and countless coffee-fueled brainstorming sessions. I’m truly grateful for everything I’ve learned here and the friendships I’ve made along the way.
If you would like to stay in touch, you can always reach me at [Your Email] or connect with me on LinkedIn: [Your LinkedIn URL].
Wishing you all continued success—you’re going to do amazing things!
Cheers, [Your Name]
The casual farewell email
Subject: Catch You Later, Legends!
“Hi Everyone, Well, this is it! My last email before I officially lose access to my inbox (so if you need me after today, now’s your chance!).
It’s hard to believe my time at [Company Name] is ending. I’ve loved every minute of working with such an amazing group of people.
I can’t thank you all enough for the laughs, the support, and the countless “quick” meetings that turned into hour-long chats. It’s been a wild ride, and I wouldn’t have wanted to spend it with anyone else.
If you ever want to catch up, feel free to email me at [Your Email] or connect with me on LinkedIn: [Your LinkedIn URL].
Thanks for making my time here unforgettable—I’ll miss you all!
Best, [Your Name]
Say Goodbye the Right Way with Thankbox!
Ready to make your farewell memorable? Create a Thankbox today to send personalised messages, share memories, and celebrate your professional journey with your team in a meaningful way!
The super short farewell email
Subject: A Quick Goodbye & Thank You!
“Hey Team,
Just a quick note to say a huge thank you for everything! It’s been an absolute pleasure working with you all, and I’m so grateful for the experiences, the laughs, and the great memories.
If you ever want to reconnect, I’d love to keep in touch—drop me an email at [Your Email] or find me on LinkedIn: [Your LinkedIn URL].
Wishing you all the best!
Cheers, [Your Name]
That’s it—easy, simple, and (hopefully) not cringe-worthy. Whether you go for professional, casual, or straight-to-the-point, just remember: a little appreciation goes a long way.
Say a sentimental goodbye with Thankbox!
Now, are you ready to really leave your mark? Set up a Thankbox so your colleagues can send their own messages back—it’s like a farewell email, but way more fun.
A Thankbox online group leaving card allows you to create a one-of-a-kind virtual card where your whole team can add personal messages, GIFs, photos, and even videos. It’s a sentimental keep sake that you can hold on to forever!
The collective messages from coworkers will cement the positive impact they’ve made on your journey and ensure you leave on a high note. Additionally, we offer digital gift cards and flower delivery your team can contribute to so that your departure is even more special.
Say a virtual bon voyage and create a Thankbox today!
Images: Cover | Woman in a video call | Smiling people | Person using laptop
