At some point in your career, your boss might have to leave—whether they’re switching departments, joining a new company, or retiring. A farewell message is a great way to formally thank them for their guidance and everything they’ve taught you over the years.
In this article, we’ll cover what a farewell message is, share some writing tips, and suggest what to include—along with a few examples.
What to Write in a Formal Farewell Message to Your Boss
A farewell message lets you show appreciation for your boss’s support. Here are some key points to include:
- Positive details: Keep it uplifting—highlight their leadership or how they’ve helped your career grow. Avoid bringing up past disagreements.
- Appreciation: Thank them for their mentorship and the positive impact they’ve had on you.
- Best wishes: Tailor your message to their next step—whether it’s retirement, a new job, or a new chapter.
Tips for Writing a Farewell Message to Your Boss
Here’s how to craft a professional goodbye:
- Choose your medium: Pick an email, handwritten note, or card—whatever fits your relationship.
- Send it early: Share your message a day or two before their last day so they have time to respond.
- Keep it concise: Be brief but heartfelt. Express gratitude, add a personal touch if needed, and wish them well.
Farewell Message Examples for Your Boss
Here are some examples to inspire your own message:
Short Farewell Messages
- Your energy and creativity made work so much fun! Thanks for being an amazing boss!
- Your leadership has been incredible—best of luck on your next adventure!
- It’s been an honor working under you. Wishing you success in your new role!
- You’re a true inspiration. Enjoy a well-deserved retirement!
- I wouldn’t be where I am without your guidance. You’ll be missed!
- We’ll miss you, but we know you’ll do great things at your new company.
- Good luck with everything, Boss! Let’s stay in touch.
- Thank you for everything—I’ll really miss having you around.
- You’re the best boss I’ve ever had. I’ve been so lucky to work with you.
- All the best in your next chapter—I know you’ll shine!
- I’ve learned so much from you over the years. Thanks for being a great leader.
- You’re not just my boss—you’re a friend. Wishing you all the best!
- Even though you’re leaving, you won’t be forgotten. Good luck!
- Best wishes in your new home and new job! Sending good vibes to you and your family.
- May success follow you wherever you go.
- Congrats on your new role, Boss! So happy for you!
- You’ve made our team something special. Thank you!
- Wishing you a retirement full of joy and relaxation!
- Your legacy here will always be remembered. Thanks for everything.
- I’ll miss having you as my mentor, but I’m excited for your next chapter.
- Sad to see you go, but thrilled for your new journey. Good luck!
- Time to kick back and enjoy retirement—you’ve earned it!
- You’re an incredible role model. Thanks for inspiring us all.
- The new branch is lucky to have you! Hope you visit us soon. Until then, good luck!
- Even though we won’t be working together, let’s keep in touch. Best wishes!
- We admire and respect you so much for your leadership.
- Wishing you a happy retirement—may it be filled with joy!
- You’ll keep being an amazing leader in your new role. Go crush it!
- It’s hard to say goodbye to someone who’s shaped my career so much. Farewell!
- So happy you landed your dream job! Best of luck!
- You’ve helped me grow so much. Thank you.
- You’ve been a fantastic boss. Grateful for all these years.
- You’re truly irreplaceable. Wishing you success in your new company!
- Thanks for being an incredible leader and mentor. All the best!
- I know you’ll excel in your next role just like you did here. We’ll miss you!
- Our work together may be ending, but our friendship isn’t. Stay in touch!
- Wishing you all the best in your career. Thanks for everything.
- Working with you has been amazing. I’ll always cherish what you’ve taught me.
- You’ve been a huge part of my career. Happy retirement!
- Thanks for setting the standard for great leadership here.
- Work hasn’t been easy, but your support made it better. You’ll be missed!
- I hope you look back on your time here with fondness. Smooth sailing ahead!
- Thank you for always pushing us to be our best. We owe so much to you.
- You might not be in the office, but your influence will stay with us.
- I know further education has been your dream—wishing you success!
- You’ve shown me how to be a great employee and leader.
- Being mentored by you has been the best part of working here. Forever grateful.
- To the best boss: thank you for your help, advice, and trust.
- Now you’re your own boss—take care and enjoy!
- I can’t thank you enough for your mentorship and contributions.
- You’ve taught us to be better professionals and people. Enjoy retirement!
- No doubt you’ll be an outstanding student in your next chapter.
- I’ll never forget how you’ve shaped my career. Thank you.
- Hard to say goodbye, but I’m sure our paths will cross again.
- I know you’ll make a big impact on your new team. Best wishes!
- May retirement be even more fun than your working years!
- So glad you landed your dream job in a new city. All the best!
- Your vision and dedication have pushed me to always do my best.
- You’ve always encouraged us to keep going, no matter what.
Longer Farewell Messages
- Being a manager isn’t easy, but you’ve been incredible. Your patience and kindness have inspired me—I’ve been so lucky to have you as my boss. Thank you for everything.
- As you move to a new city, I hope you keep spreading the same passion and energy. May your new home bring comfort to you and your family. Best of luck!
- You’re a one-of-a-kind boss. Your leadership has helped us grow so much as a team. You’ll be deeply missed. Wishing you all the best!
- As you move on, know that you’ve left a lasting legacy here. Your drive will stay with us. Wishing you success!
- Because of you, I’m a better person, employee, and leader. You’ve shown me how to lead with strength and kindness. Now it’s your turn to relax—enjoy retirement!
- Boss, I’m so proud of your achievement. I know you’ll keep reaching new heights. Goodbye, and may success follow you always.
- It’s tough losing both a mentor and a friend. Thank you for your guidance and support over the years.
- I’m so grateful you were my manager. You’ve set an example for everyone here. Thank you for being such an inspiration.
- Work never felt like a burden under your leadership. Thanks to you, I’ve grown so much—both professionally and personally. I’ll miss having you on the team. Best of luck in your next chapter!
- The past five years working with you have been amazing. Even in tough times, you’ve always been an outstanding leader. Wishing you continued success wherever you go!