Saying goodbye to a colleague can be harder than you expect. Whether you worked side by side or only crossed paths during meetings, parting words matter. They’re not just polite—they’re a meaningful way to express appreciation, well-wishes, and even a little emotion. So, if you’re unsure what to say to a colleague who is leaving, you’re not alone.
In this post, we’ll help you craft the right words—whether it’s a formal farewell, a short message, or something from the heart. You’ll find real examples, phrases to avoid, and the best ways to say goodbye that feel natural, respectful, and sincere. Because saying goodbye the right way leaves a lasting impression—on them and on you.
Sorry Generator
Start with Gratitude and Appreciation 🙏
Begin with a thank-you. Acknowledging your colleague’s efforts, attitude, or impact on the team sets a positive tone.
What to say:
- “I really appreciated your support during tough projects.”
- “Your leadership made a big difference in how I grew here.”
- “Thanks for always bringing positive energy to the team.”
What NOT to say:
- “Oh, you’re finally leaving?”
- “Well, I guess we’ll survive without you.”
- “I don’t really have anything to say.”
💡 Scenario: Your colleague helped onboard you when you were new. Say, “Thank you for guiding me when I first joined. You really made me feel welcome.”
Share a Personal Memory or Inside Joke
If you shared laughter or memorable experiences, mention them. It shows the relationship mattered—and adds a warm, human touch.
What to say:
- “I’ll never forget that day we fixed the system at the last minute—it was wild, but we did it!”
- “Remember when we couldn’t stop laughing in that Monday meeting? I’ll miss moments like that.”
What NOT to say:
- “I don’t really remember anything specific.”
- “Nothing much happened between us.”
- “Let’s not get sentimental.”
😂 A little humor or nostalgia helps create a memorable goodbye—especially if your colleague values shared history.
Wish Them Well in Their New Role 🎉
Always include a hopeful, supportive message about the future—even if you’ll miss them. Focus on their success and happiness.
What to say:
- “I’m excited for your next chapter—you’re going to do amazing things.”
- “Wishing you success and happiness in your new role!”
- “Your new team is lucky to have you.”
What NOT to say:
- “I hope it’s not worse than this place.”
- “You’ll be back.”
- “Good luck, you’ll need it.”
💡 Scenario: They’re moving to a leadership role elsewhere. Say, “You’ve got great leadership instincts—your new team is in great hands.”
Keep It Professional If You Weren’t Close
Not everyone forms strong bonds at work, and that’s okay. If you didn’t work closely, a kind and respectful message is still appropriate.
What to say:
- “Wishing you all the best in your next role.”
- “It was nice working with you—best of luck ahead.”
- “Hope your new journey is full of exciting opportunities.”
What NOT to say:
- “I didn’t really know you, but goodbye.”
- “Are you sure this is a good move?”
- “Well, I guess that’s it then.”
👔 A short, simple goodbye still shows professionalism and respect.
Offer to Stay in Touch (If It Feels Right)
If you want to continue the relationship, say so. This is especially useful for strong connections, mentorships, or long-time collaborations.
What to say:
- “Let’s grab coffee sometime—don’t be a stranger!”
- “Feel free to reach out on LinkedIn, I’d love to stay in touch.”
- “I’ll miss our chats—send me an update once you’ve settled in!”
What NOT to say:
- “Don’t forget me!”
- “We probably won’t ever talk again, huh?”
- “I’ll keep stalking you online.”
💬 Be sincere and respectful—offering a genuine way to stay connected can make a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts:
When it comes to what to say to a colleague who is leaving, a little thought goes a long way. Whether you’re sharing a memory, expressing thanks, or simply wishing them well, your words can leave a lasting positive mark. Be genuine, stay kind, and don’t overthink it—just speak from the heart (or your professional instincts).
A farewell is more than a goodbye—it’s a way to celebrate a chapter and honor a connection.
Find the right words for what to say to a colleague who is leaving. Express appreciation, support, and stay connected.
[…] A simple, thoughtful message can go a long way. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to say when a coworker is leaving, including real-life examples, what to avoid, and how to make your farewell memorable—no matter […]