giving a goodbye speech to coworkers

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

Giving A Farewell Speech At Work (With Examples)

• Say Goodbye To Coworkers
• Clean Up Your Desk
• How To Ask For A Reference
• Farewell To Coworkers
• How To Resign From A Job
• Farewell Speech

Find a Job You Really Want In

Summary. Your farewell speech at work is an opportunity to bring your time with the company to a close in a friendly way. In your speech should express your gratitude for your company and colleagues and let people know where you are going. Your speech should be personal and it’s a good idea to use anecdotes from your time in the office.

No one can stay at a job forever, and there comes a time in everyone’s career when you have to say goodbye to a group of coworkers.

Whether you got promoted and relocated, you’re retiring, or you were given a better offer by another company, it’s nice to give all of your coworkers a proper goodbye, and one of the best ways to do this is in a farewell speech.

No matter when or why you need to give a farewell speech, we’ll help you prep one that’s memorable and moving in no time. Keep reading to learn what a farewell speech is, how to create a good one, and a few examples you can model yours after.

Key Takeaways:

Keep your speech positive and use a relaxed tone while giving it.

Create an outline when writing your speech to get an idea of what you want to say before you start writing.

Thank your coworkers for their support and for creating a fun work environment.

What Is a Farewell Speech?

How to write a job farewell speech, examples of farewell speeches, tips for delivering a good farewell speech, writing a farewell speech for a colleague, farewell speech faqs.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

Farewell speeches are an opportunity to bring your time with a company to a close in a polite and friendly way. Typically, they’re short speeches you can make on your last day or if your coworkers throw you a going-away party. They don’t need to be long monologues; you just need to express your gratitude for your time with the company and let people know where you’re heading.

Keep in mind that farewell speeches don’t have to happen every time someone leaves a job or switches offices. Farewell speeches are usually reserved for people who have had a significant impact on a company, worked somewhere for a long time, or are retiring . Not everyone has to give a special speech, so if you feel like you haven’t been at a company long enough or don’t have a high enough position to make a speech, you definitely don’t need to.

Farewell speeches are pretty low pressure, and you can just speak from the heart, so they’re not the trickiest professional speech you’ll ever have to give. But, it still doesn’t hurt to be prepared and have an idea of what you want to say before your opportunity arises. Here are the steps you should take when you want to prepare your farewell speech ahead of time:

Start with an outline. Even though goodbye speeches are just a few minutes long, it doesn’t hurt to have a general idea of what you want to say before you start forming your thoughts.

Beef up your ideas. After you have an outline, you can start filling it in with anything you want to share. Be sure to make everything flow, which the outline can help with since you already know what you want your next point to be.

Let people know where you’re going. Before you wrap up your speech, make sure you take a moment to tell your coworkers what your next step is . Whether you’re retiring, moving to a new company, or having a career change, people want to know what you’re up to and how they can stay in touch with you.

Create a strong conclusion. When you’re writing the end of your speech, make sure it follows the tone you’ve created throughout the rest of the speech. If you went for a more serious tone, you should make sure you keep the ending serious, and the same goes for if you went for a humorous tone.

Edit your speech. Before you read your speech for your coworkers, you should read it aloud for yourself to make sure everything feels right. You can even have a friend read it over for you, but just make sure you give it a read over before giving your speech.

Here are a few examples of farewell speeches you can give to your coworkers before you leave your job. We’ll give you some samples of different reasons you might be departing a company.

If You’re Retiring

Hi everyone. Thanks so much for taking time out of your day to celebrate my last day with ABC Company. After 20 years here, I can’t believe I won’t be seeing that hideous fake plant and all of your lovely faces every morning. I’m immensely grateful to everyone in this room, especially my HR team. We’ve done some amazing work during my time here, from implementing our database years ago to supporting our colleagues throughout some rocky patches at ABC. I’ll miss everyone on the HR team, especially our weekly Friday gossip lunches. I also want to give a huge thanks to Linda, our head of HR. Linda’s been with me almost since my start, and I wouldn’t have gotten to where I am today without her kindness and support. Thanks for everything, Linda. I’m sad to say goodbye to all of you, but I’ll be stopping in from time to time. It’s been an incredible journey with you all, but now it’s time for me to kick back and finally watch that new show you’ve all been telling me about! Thanks again, everyone!

If You’re Leaving For Another Company

Thank you all for coming. I really appreciate you taking some time out of your days to send me off like this. I’ve loved my time here because of all the wonderful people I’ve met, so you’re making it really hard for me to leave. I just want to say a little thank you to my team, who has been by my side since I started at Smith Consulting. Without the leadership and mentorship of Brenda, I don’t know how I would’ve ever moved up to Senior Consultant . Of course, I have to thank my fellow team members Oliver, Sarah, and John, for keeping me motivated and laughing during our late-night brainstorms, countless airport trips, and meetings with tough clients. I also want to give a quick shoutout to Jamie, who will be taking over for me. Jamie is amazing, and I’ve really enjoyed working with her and watching her grow over the last month. I know she’ll do a great job and be a real asset to the team after I’m gone. I’ve enjoyed every second I’ve been with Smith Consulting, and I’m sad to leave. I’ll be moving to Chicago with my husband to be closer to our families, but I sincerely hope everyone will stay in touch. Hopefully, I’ll make it back out here soon, and we’ll have a chance to work together again. Thank you again to everyone, and I’ll miss all of you!

No matter how formal or informal your farewell speech is, you can follow these tips to make sure you deliver one that’s memorable:

Practice before the big day. Just like anything else, practicing your speech a few times before you give it is a good way to make sure it flows. It can also help you make sure you sound natural and relaxed when you give your speech.

Greet your listeners. To make your speech more lighthearted, you should acknowledge your audience before launching into your speech. Take a second to greet everyone and incorporate them into your speech.

Make it personal. At the end of the day, the speech is about you and your colleagues, so don’t be afraid to make it personal. Your audience will find it more entertaining if you make your speech specific and personal than if you just keep things generic and vague.

Stay positive. While you might be departing with your company for negative reasons, don’t bring anything up in your farewell speech.

Use anecdotes. One way to make your speech memorable and engaging is to use stories from your time in the office. Think of running jokes you have with your coworkers or talk about the great prank you pulled on your boss one year.

Thank your coworkers. While this is a speech about your time at the company, you should take time to thank your coworkers for their support and creating a fun work environment .

Keep it natural. There’s no need to force yourself to do a formal farewell speech if that’s not your personality. Do something that feels natural to you and represents who you are in relation to your audience. You can keep it light and humorous if that fits you, or go for something more serious; just keep it natural.

Use a relaxed tone. Since farewell speeches aren’t overly formal, you want to make sure you’re using a relaxed tone when you address your audience.

Be brief. Your colleagues want to hear from you, but they don’t want a ten-minute walk down memory lane, especially when they’re waiting to eat or need to get to a meeting.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to give a farewell speech for a colleague that is leaving. In this case, you’ll follow many of the same principles that we listed for a farewell speech that you’d give when you’re the one leaving.

Instead of talking about your time with the group as a whole, however, you’ll talk about the individual who is leaving.

Share some of their positive qualities and accomplishments, a few memories or uplifting experiences you had with the person, and how the person has impacted your career or the workplace as a whole.

Close by thanking them for their hard work and wishing them well as they move on to other endeavors.

How do I give a farewell speech for leaving a company?

You give a farewell speech for leaving a company by briefly mentioning a few positive memories of your time working there, expressing your sadness at your departure, and thanking your coworkers.

This speech should be more about your colleagues than about you, so make sure you keep your speech to the point and focused on topics everyone can appreciate.

General memories that most people have in common or your gratitude toward different people or groups in the organization are both great points to include in your speech.

How should I start my farewell speech?

You should start your farewell speech by thanking everyone for being there. Chances are you’re giving your speech at an event of some kind, and even if it’s just a gathering in the conference room to eat cake, you need to thank everyone for taking the time to attend.

From there, you can move into sharing what you’ve appreciated or positive things you’ve learned from your time at the company, thanking your coworkers, and sharing where you’re going next.

What are some good farewell sayings?

Some good farewell sayings are, “It’s been an incredible journey,” “I hope you will keep in touch,” and “I wish you the best.” These sayings all express your appreciation for your coworkers and your desire to continue those relationships.

It’s important to include phrases like these in your speech to show that while you may be excited about what you’re moving to next, you are still sad to be leaving this job and community behind.

How do I say goodbye to my colleagues?

Same ways to say goodbye include:

“I’m going to miss you. Wishing you luck in your new role and your future. We’ll talk soon.”

“It was a blast working with you. We will miss having you around. Goodbye, dear friend.”

“leaving this place and everyone will be difficult, thank you, everybody. Goodbye.”

“Although I am thrilled about my new position, I’m sad to leave the company. Everyone, goodbye.”

Best Speech Topics – Farewell Speech

Throughline – How To Give A Memorable Farewell Speech

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Amanda is a writer with experience in various industries, including travel, real estate, and career advice. After taking on internships and entry-level jobs, she is familiar with the job search process and landing that crucial first job. Included in her experience is work at an employer/intern matching startup where she marketed an intern database to employers and supported college interns looking for work experience.

Recent Job Searches

• Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
• Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
• Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
• Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
• Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
• Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Company Driver Jobs Resume

Related posts

The Difference Between Getting Fired And Getting Laid Off

How To Resign From A Job (With Examples)

What Is A Severance Package? (With Examples)

Terminated From Employment: What Is It?

• Career Advice >
• Leaving The Office >
• Farewell Speech At Work

• Delivery Techniques →

Farewell Speech Examples: How to Say Goodbye with Grace

As much as we’d like our goodbyes — whether to a job, a loved one, or a chapter in our lives — to be extended and leave us with a lasting feeling of warmth and appreciation, that isn’t always the case.

A well-crafted farewell speech has the potential to turn any difficult goodbye into a fond farewell, leaving all parties feeling gracious and grateful. To guide you in bringing your goodbye to its highest form, let’s delve into the art of delivering a good farewell speech.

What is a Farewell Speech?

A farewell speech is a way to mark one’s departure from an organization, group, or event. It’s typically delivered by someone who is leaving or has recently left their role or position in the organization and is typically intended to say thank you and express empathy and gratitude for the audience.

Farewell speeches often include a call to action for those who remain in the group or organization, providing insights and advice that can help the group move forward even after the speaker leaves.

The debate about what constitutes an effective farewell speech depends largely on the context of the particular situation.

On one hand, some people argue that a simple goodbye and thank you are all that is needed in order to properly bid farewell. They might argue that more than this would be repetitive and unhelpful as it would not add any new information or create any additional value.

On the other hand, others argue that a more detailed goodbye and send-off provides more closure, comfort, and support, allowing those remaining to better process the change and find growth opportunities in it.

No matter the approach taken, however, it’s important to recognize that farewell speeches are important moments for both those who are leaving and those who are staying; they provide an opportunity for reflection on memories shared, lessons learned, and relationships formed—all of which contribute to making an impactful farewell experience.

With this in mind, the next section will discuss what makes an effective farewell speech.

Quick Answer

A farewell speech is an important way to mark one’s departure from an organization, group, or event. It usually includes gratitude and a call to action for those who remain in the group. Farewell speeches often include a reflection on memories shared, lessons learned, and relationships formed. What constitutes an effective farewell speech depends on the situation but it should provide closure and comfort.

What Makes an Effective Farewell Speech?

The delivery and content of a farewell speech can significantly influence the sentiment behind goodbye messages. It’s important for sendoff speakers to emphasize gratitude and to express their appreciation for the time spent with colleagues, friends, or family.

A successful farewell speech should be heartfelt, sincere, and thoughtful. When crafting a farewell speech, speakers may want to consider incorporating elements like humour, humility, and inspiration in order to add depth to their words.

Additionally, touch upon shared emotions to convey the bond between both parties. Focusing on these three elements allows for a memorable sendoff that will stick with the crowd in attendance.

Humour is an effective way of connecting with the audience and lightening the atmosphere; providing some levity amongst more serious anecdotes. Self-deprecating remarks can be a way of connecting with colleagues in a more intimate way; showing you are equally as human as they are.

On the flip side, too much humour can sometimes come across as insincere and hinder the speaker’s attempt at conveying genuine emotion; arguably one of the key components of an effective farewell speech.

Moreover, include inspirational stories which feature distinct examples of gratitude within them—this will create greater authenticity and leave guests feeling impacted by your words.

As aforementioned, it’s vital for goodbyes to incorporate appreciation for time spent together—evoke specific memories and draw attention to individuals when necessary rather than speaking in generalities.

Ensure that your words make an impact on those who need to hear them. With these in mind, it’s possible to craft a successful transition from one stage of life to another through an effective farewell speech that is full of grace and gratitude.

Having addressed what makes an effective farewell speech, we’ll next discuss how best to show appreciation in sending off messages.

Showing Appreciation

Showing appreciation is a key element of any farewell speech. Expressing gratitude for the years spent in each other’s company conveys respect and admiration for all that has been accomplished.

When it comes to including words of acknowledgement and appreciation, many people choose to highlight the special moments shared, celebrate the successes seen, and offer thoughtful acknowledgements or simple thank yous.

However, there are opposing opinions on how to best show appreciation. Some suggest keeping dedications to a minimum so as not bore listeners with too much detail while others believe a more thorough approach can help create lasting memories and nostalgia.

The most important thing is to be mindful of your audience and what feels right based on the relationship that the farewell speech is celebrating.

If appropriate, consider having a moment at the end of your speech where you thank everyone individually while explicitly naming their individual contributions. A more public approach can include a round of applause directed at individuals who have had an impact on you along your journey.

In conclusion, expressing appreciation in a farewell speech provides an opportunity for reflection and celebration of meaningful experiences. Celebrating the occasion marks a special moment in time as one move forward in life or career.

Celebrating the Occasion

When someone is leaving their current role, it is important to take some time to celebrate and recognize their achievements. Celebrating the occasion acknowledges their contribution, gives thanks for their hard work, and shows gratitude for their time.

It can be a meaningful gesture that highlights the value of the departing employee or colleague, and can also be an inspiring opportunity for those who remain in the position.

In planning a celebration for the person’s departure, consider what would best suit their personality and interests. A simple going-away party, a framed thank-you card, or another creative form of recognition might be just the right way to say goodbye.

However, it is also important to consider how this celebration could affect morale and productivity within the team. If there is already tension in the workplace due to changes in leadership or a reorganization of roles, then holding a celebratory event could serve to further emphasize inequalities among employees or even create an uncomfortable environment.

When deciding how best to celebrate someone’s departure, it is important to assess both potential positive and negative implications of any action and plan accordingly. Doing so ensures that both the departing employee or colleague is properly recognized as well as all other members of the team feel respected and appreciated for their own contributions.

By acknowledging this balance appropriately, it will help ensure that everyone feels included and appreciated when saying goodbye. From here we can move on to discuss how to use a farewell speech to inspire your audience.

Inspiring Your Audience

In order to move an audience and leave a lasting impression, it is important to ensure that your farewell speech is both inspirational and meaningful. To do this, consider talking about how much the experience meant to you, how much you have enjoyed and learned from your friends and colleagues, or highlighting the greatest accomplishments of the group.

Additionally, use personal anecdotes that reflect the experiences of everyone in the audience. This will not only inspire emotions in them but also allow them to connect with each other as they share similar memories.

If applicable, provide words of wisdom to encourage resilience and success in the future. Show gratitude for being part of something special, even if it may be difficult to say goodbye.

By doing so, you can instill hope rather than sadness in the audience with your kind words. By expressing solidarity and understanding, your message can picture a bright future on which everyone can look forward to despite leaving their respective positions.

Ultimately, it’s important to speak positively during a farewell speech so as to leave a good impression in people’s minds when departing. Inspiring your audience will also help them remember you fondly and feel positive about their time spent together.

As such, wrap up your speech with an example or phrase that gets repeated by people long after they heard it or send out a meaningful message that serves as an uplifting reminder for all who were present.

Now that we have discussed how to inspire an audience through a farewell speech it’s time to focus on what such speeches could be like. In the next section, we will cover examples of farewell speeches so you can get some great ideas on what to include in your own address.

Example of a Farewell Speech

When you’re leaving your current position at work, it’s customary to deliver a farewell speech. These speeches provide a meaningful way to say goodbye and reflect on the successes of your time spent in the role.

Here is an example of an effective farewell speech that can be tailored to your experience and the tenor of your workplace:

“Good morning everyone! I want to thank you all for being here today. As many of you know, today is my last day with [Company Name], and I wanted to take a few moments to say a few words about my experience here.

This company has been a great home for me during the last [insert length of time]. During my time here, I learned countless skills , met fantastic people, and made memories to last a lifetime. Working with all of you has been an incredible honor – you have always demonstrated kindness and strong work ethic. I’m sure the business will continue to grow under the capable leadership of [current leader].

I have enjoyed every minute of my time here and I wish this team tremendous success as they move forward. Remember: no matter what happens in life, don’t forget to find joy in what we do. Thank you so much for your support – now let’s celebrate!”

Farewell speeches are a great opportunity for reflection and sentimentality but it’s important to balance it out with humor or positivity depending on the setting.

On one hand, some people might opt for deeper reflections on their journey and how each person has played a part in their development, while others may choose to keep their speeches lighthearted and upbeat.

Regardless of which option works best for your audience, remember that these farewell speeches provide valuable opportunities to build connections before departing from an organization or team.

At the same time, it’s important not to let the farewell speech drag on too long – keep the message brief yet meaningful. This allows present colleagues to receive appreciation without disrupting daily workflow.

Prefer a longer example? Here’s one from George Washington to the people of the USA .

Crafting Your Own Farewell Speech follows similar guidelines – find the right mix between reflection and positivity in order to create an effective speech that resonates with its audience.

Crafting Your Own Farewell Speech

Crafting your own farewell speech is a task that should not be taken lightly. It requires thought and honest reflection to craft a meaningful and memorable goodbye speech.

Your words should pay tribute to the experience you have had while connecting emotionally with your audience. Crafting your own farewell speech gives you the opportunity to directly address how hard it was to leave and acknowledge the contributions made both by yourself and others in the organization.

When deciding on how to create a memorable farewell speech, there are two paths one can take. On one hand, those looking for guidance might want to find existing templates filled with the right sentiments that they can customize to fit their needs.

Alternatively, those who prefer writing from scratch can develop their own narrative thread, drawing on their own words of wisdom and emotions as they feel them in the moment.

When constructing a self-made speech, it’s important to remember brevity is key. Each word should have intent and purpose; it’s better to be thoughtful than wordy.

Bear in mind that this moment presents an opportunity for closure and for celebration for accomplishments along the journey you embarked upon together.

It’s also worth mentioning any lessons learned or valuable experiences gained during this transition. As daunting as this may sound, it can be immensely rewarding when done well.

Having taken into account both sides of creating a farewell speech, next is brainstorming potential topics that can serve as inspiration for crafting an effective goodbye message.

Brainstorm Topics

Brainstorming topics for a farewell speech allows you to come up with an effective way to express your gratitude and appreciation when saying goodbye. This is important because it helps you maintain dignity, respectfulness and meaningfulness in the words you choose to say.

Before delivering a heartfelt farewell, it’s important to consider what areas are worth mentioning.

You should focus on three main topics when creating a farewell speech: the past, the present, and the future.

When reflecting on “the past ,” you should focus on acknowledging your successes and accomplishments while working there. This helps to reinforce that your contributions did not go unnoticed and were appreciated by those around you.

It helps to inspire and motivate others with the knowledge of your success in the workplace. Consider thanking coworkers for helping you achieve your goals over time; collaborative efforts often go underappreciated and focusing on why their help was beneficial can be a pleasant surprise.

Another important topic to consider is “the present ”; this is where you can express your gratitude and thank everyone who has helped you through this long journey of leaving the company.

Provide sincere thanks to coworkers and colleagues who have been key in making it possible for you to depart gracefully.

Consider being transparent about what you have learned during your years in the organization and how these learnings will propel you forward into new opportunities or ventures.

Finally, mention how much the people in the organization mean to you, as well as how much they will be missed—this will help solidify that relationships were built during your stay at the company and that they won’t easily be forgotten or taken for granted.

Lastly, “the future ” focuses on optimism, hope, and reaffirms resilience—even in times of change. Here, emphasize any newfound strength that was built during this experience, as well as talk about future aspirations or goals with optimism.

Lastly, send off a few encouraging words for those left behind reminding them that great things can still occur despite difficulty or instability occurring at work due to your departure from the team.

With these three topics outlined it’s now time to choose your words carefully with precision so that the final speech resonates all of these concepts entirely; leading into a memorable goodbye for those who will hear it spoken aloud.

Choose Your Words Carefully

When crafting your farewell speech, it is important to choose your words carefully. Each word should invoke not only emotion, but also provide a level of understanding for the audience. It is essential that you communicate your message perfectly and with clarity.

To begin, strive to craft an introduction with strong language that grabs the attention of your listeners. This could range from using metaphors or analogies to compare yourself to a superhero or time traveler depending on the audience’s sense of humor and interests.

Anticipate potential questions from the audience and provide thoughtful answers in advance.

Be sure to include gratitude during your speech even if it’s uncomfortable. Doing so will make you look professional and acknowledge how much you appreciate any help given to you over the years. Showing appreciation will surely leave a lasting impression.

Try to close strong, offering perspectives to the colleagues who remain and looking ahead to new possibilities instead of focusing on sadness or regret. Reassure them that they too can pursue their dreams and opportunities just as you have, conveying optimism in the process.

Furthermore, reflect on your newfound clarity while providing an outlook full of positivity; emphasizing the benefits you may reap going forward regardless of any hardships faced along the way.

Choose your words carefully when preparing for a farewell speech; it will be key in making sure this moment shines.

Consider tips such as designing an introductio n full of strong language, expressing gratitude, and providing an optimistic outlook for those remaining when constructing your own dream goodbye speech.

As a final step before delivering it, practice speaking with emotion and deliver the speech body language that conveys both warmth and sincerity. With these strategies, you can say goodbye with grace and gratitude.

This next section looks at how best to deliver a farewell speech with emotion; from preparing beforehand to finding ways to connect with the audience on an emotional level while delivering it.

Deliver the Speech With Emotion

Delivering a farewell speech with emotion can make or break the impact of the speech. On one hand, some might say that showing too much emotion is not professional and may take away from the gravity of the situation.

For example, if someone gets overly emotional in a workplace setting, it could create an uncomfortable atmosphere. The speaker would need to maintain a certain level of composure to keep the focus of the audience and to remain professional.

On the other hand, delivering a farewell speech without emotion does not give justice to the heartfelt emotions connected to this particular occasion. Heartfelt tales of memories and personal experiences paired with earnest gratitude and respect should be expressed with intensity and feeling.

Audiences tend to connect more deeply with speeches that are delivered with genuine emotion rather than one filled with boring facts and statistics.

It is important to find balance in your delivery style between staying professional while also expressing your feelings fully in order to truly convey the gravity of the occasion.

A blend of stoic delivery and heartfelt emotions will ensure that everyone in attendance can both respect your professionalism while connecting on an emotional level with you as well.

As we have seen, it is important to strike a balance between staying professional while delivering a farewell speech with emotion – finding this balance will help ensure that everyone in attendance appreciates your sincere sentiments and respects your level of composure at the same time.

In the following section, we will discuss how to bid adieu in an effective conclusion to your farewell speech.

Conclusion: Saying Goodbye

Saying goodbye can be one of the most emotionally fraught experiences in a person’s life. It is a moment when all of the hard work, dedication, and fond memories come flooding back in a flood of mixed emotions.

Farewell speech examples can provide structure and guidance for those who are preparing their own speeches. There are many different types of farewell speeches, from those that are funny and lighthearted to those that are more reflective and sombre.

No matter which type of speech you decide to write or deliver, always remember to express your utmost gratitude towards the people who have helped you during your time with them. Aim to make your speech memorable by ending it on an emotional high note. Above all else, strive to keep it sincere and meaningful.

It is often said that endings can be bittersweet, however, with proper planning and preparation through reviewal of some farewell speech examples, your own farewell speech can be both graceful and positive.

When the words come from the heart they will often linger with your friends or colleagues long after they are gone. With this in mind, remember to make goodbyes count – not only for yourself but for the people around you as well.

Answers to Common Questions with Detailed Explanations

How should i structure my farewell speech.

Structuring your Farewell Speech is important as it can help to make sure that your thoughts and sentiments are expressed in an organized manner. There are several steps that you can take to ensure that your speech is well-structured: 1. Acknowledge the occasion and thank people for being there – After beginning with a warm welcome, state the reason for gathering and express gratitude to everyone present for attending the function. 2. Take time to share memories – Many farewell speeches are full of nostalgia so use this time to reminisce about moments from the past, stories from shared experiences, fond memories of work or successes achieved together. 3. Show Gratitude – Take some time to express appreciation for colleagues and associates for their support, friendship, and guidance throughout your tenure. Express any sorrow you may have in leaving. 4. Thank & Recognize those who Inspire You – Use this opportunity to thank anyone who has deeply inspired you or been influential in facilitating your success thus far. 5. Conclude with Encouraging Words – Retrospect on what was accomplished and speak positively about what lies ahead both for yourself and other colleagues.

What are some of the key elements of a successful farewell speech?

The key elements of a successful farewell speech are to leave your audience with appreciation and gratitude, reflect on your best memories, thank those who have impacted your journey, highlight accomplishments and share a few wise words or memorable quotes .

Start by thanking everyone in the room for attending and taking the time to celebrate with you. Make sure to express your appreciation and gratitude for the unique experience that this role brought you.

Reflect on some of the best moments you experienced while fulfilling this role, focusing on what you learned and how these experiences shaped and motivated you.

Next, thank those who influenced your journey, like mentors, colleagues and friends. Acknowledge their support and ask them to continue providing advice when needed.

Highlight your successes, as they demonstrate how much work was put into achieving these goals , which should be cause for celebration!

Lastly, offer a few nuggets of wisdom or quotes that resonated with you from this experience – not only will it make people think, but it can also leave a lasting impression.

By following these tips and sharing heartfelt words of appreciation and wisdom, you can create a memorable farewell speech that celebrates your accomplishments while looking towards the future.

What are some tips for delivering a memorable farewell speech?

Delivering a memorable farewell speech is no easy feat, but it can be done with a little practice , creativity, and confidence. Here are a few tips to help you make your speech stand out:

1. Know your audience – Keep in mind who will be listening to your speech and tailor it accordingly. Are they colleagues? Friends? Family? Making sure that your speech resonates with the people you’re addressing is key for delivering a compelling message.

2. Be personable – Letting some of your personality shine through in your speech is key for making it memorable. Personal anecdotes, humor, and quotes are all great ways to do this.

3. Focus on the present – Make sure that you address the present feelings of those in attendance instead of solely dwelling on the past or future. Remind everyone why their current relationship has been special and unique and emphasize what brought everyone together in the first place.

4. Avoid cliché phrases – Goodbye speeches often contain phrases like “it’s been a pleasure” or “I wish you all the best” but these can come across as insincere if overused. Instead, try to come up with thoughtful compliments or memorable expressions that reflect the spirit of your goodbye.

5. Leave on a high note – A memorable goodbye speech should end with a moment of gratitude and optimism; this will stay in everyone’s minds as you leave them for good. Express how glad you have been to work or connect with these specific people and express hope for successful futures for them all (including yourself).

• Games, topic printables & more
• The 4 main speech types
• Example speeches
• Commemorative
• Declamation
• Demonstration
• Informative
• Introduction
• Student Council
• Speech topics
• Poems to read aloud
• How to write a speech
• Using props/visual aids
• Acute anxiety help
• Breathing exercises
• Letting go - free e-course
• Using self-hypnosis
• Delivery overview
• 4 modes of delivery
• How to make cue cards
• How to read a speech
• 9 vocal aspects
• Vocal variety
• Diction/articulation
• Pronunciation
• Speaking rate
• How to use pauses
• Eye contact
• Body language
• Voice image
• Voice health
• Public speaking activities and games
• About me/contact
• Farewell speeches
• Farewell speech for a colleague leaving

Write a farewell speech for a colleague

How to easily prepare a great goodbye speech for a co-worker in 7 steps

By:  Susan Dugdale  

Writing a great farewell speech for a colleague leaving can seem like a really difficult task.

Just what do you say in goodbye speech for a co-worker?

How do you find the right words?  And where do you start?

To make it easier, follow and complete each of the steps below.  

The end result will be a farewell speech for your colleague you'll be proud to give. And even better still, it'll be a speech they'll be delighted to receive! ☺    

What's on this page

A start to finish 7 step process for writing a goodbye speech for a co-worker, with printable brainstorm and outline documents to use, and a sample speech.

• Step One : Brainstorming - collecting your material [with a printable brainstorm template to use]
• Step Two :  Reviewing your material
• Step Three : Organizing the body of your speech [with a printable speech outline template ]
• Step Four : Brainstorming the conclusion [ with a printable brainstorm template ]
• Step Five : Brainstorming the introduction   [with a printable brainstorm template ]
• Step Six : Linking the pieces together (with a sample speech: text and audio)
• Step Seven : Testing and rehearsing

Step One: Brainstorming - collecting material 

The first step is to gather your material for the body, or main part, of your farewell speech. The easiest way I know to do this is to brainstorm.

How to brainstorm to get ideas

Either download and print off a A4 sized blank brainstorm template to use, the one in the image below, or grab a blank sheet of paper of your own.

Use the four headings below as triggers or prompts to get your ideas flowing.

Put down everything you think of, or associate with your colleague, under each of them. (Just like I've done in the example image above.) Do not stop to get the spelling right. Do not stop to edit. You can do all of that later.

What’s important now is to get down as many content ideas as possible. (If you don’t know something you think is vital to include, make a note to find out later.)

When you can’t think of anything more, move on to the next prompt.

1. Basic Facts – History with Company 

(You need to get these accurate. If you don’t know, or are unsure about anything, ask.)

• How long has your colleague been employed by the company?
• What positions or areas have they worked in over that time?
• What are they leaving to do? Take a new job in another company? Travel? Retire? Go on parental leave? Have they been promoted or transferred to another section or branch of the company? Or is what they’re going to be doing in the future private and they would prefer it not mentioned? Like, for instance, they're going to be dealing with a major health issue and don't want everybody to know about it.

2. Positive qualities or characteristics

What positive qualities or characteristics automatically spring to mind when you think of your colleague?

Note them down, with examples.

For example:

• Fun loving: organized ‘crazy hat’ and t-shirt Fridays.
• Genuinely caring and considerate: made a point of always acknowledging what had been done by someone to get a job done, was careful to NOT overload already stretched workers, watched for signs of stress.
• Honest and respectful: direct and sincere in dealings with others, acknowledged their own part and what had been done by others in the success or otherwise of projects.
• Collaborative: didn’t need to be a solo hero – could easily involve others and share the spotlight – a team player.
• Responsible: took ownership of tasks assigned to them, made sure they delivered the very best they could.

3. Work stories: serious and amusing 

Over the time you’ve been working together what stories can you share that best illustrate your colleague’s positive qualities? Are there major projects or milestone developments that could or should be mentioned? What have you jointly achieved? Highlight your shared successes!

For example: 

• the development of the hugely successful mentoring and ongoing training scheme to nurture junior product developers
• the push to diversify and develop high value niche products

What about genuinely amusing, or funny, stories you know your colleague will be OK about sharing publicly?

• the time they thought it was ‘crazy hat’ Friday and arrived at the office in time to meet the trade delegation from China in the foyer wearing an oversize pink furry top hat decorated with bright yellow daffodils bouncing and nodding at the ends of long green springs.

4. Special skills and their impact

What special skills does your colleague have that you admire or are inspired by? Perhaps they have great communication skills. Or maybe they’re a whizz at collecting, organizing and analyzing information for reports.

What impact did those skills have on you? On the business?

• the ability to pull together useful, easily understood, yet complex, spread sheets quickly

Return to Top

Step Two: Reviewing your material

Go through all of the ideas you've generated.

As you do, consider the purpose of the speech,  the tone you want,  who is going to be listening (the audience) and then choose what you want to use from each section of your brainstorm.

Remember you have 3 -5 minutes speaking time. You can not include everything! Take the best and strongest of what you have.

(For more about the characteristics of a good farewell speech ) 

Step Three: Organizing the body of your speech

Enter what you have chosen under the right headings in the farewell speech outline template .  This material will form the body of your farewell speech.

See the examples below. All these content ideas have been taken from the initial brainstorm (Step One).

1. Basic facts: history with company

• [name of colleague eg. Sam] has been with us 5 years.
• Started as senior product development manager and soon became the new group product development manager.
• Leaving to go travelling!

2. Positive qualities, with examples

• Fun loving: organized ‘crazy hat’ and t-shirt Fridays
• Genuinely caring and considerate: made a point of always acknowledging what had been done by someone to get a job done, was careful to NOT overload already stretched workers, watched for signs of stress
• Collaborative: didn’t need to be a solo hero, could easily involve others and share the spotlight, a team player

3. Work stories

Successful projects:

Funny work story:

• the time they thought it was ‘crazy hat’ Friday and arrived at the office in time to meet the trade delegation from China in the foyer wearing an oversized pink top hat decorated with bright yellow daffodils bouncing at the ends of long green springs.

4. Special skills and their impact

• the ability to communicate effectively with empathy and humor 
• to motivate through example
• to quickly collate and transform vast quantities of information into readable, actionable reports which laid the foundation for the success of the projects. I’ve learned a lot from being alongside them.

Step Four: Brainstorm the conclusion

Use the four headings below as a prompt to note a few ideas to use in your ending.

Do this either on a blank sheet of paper of your own or download and print a blank A4 sized speech conclusion and introduction template to use. 

1. What is the impact of your colleague leaving?

What will you miss? What will change?

I know it's selfish, but how on earth are we going to pull together the monthly reports without you? And who is going to delight us with a new silly hat every week? We definitely have a few challenges ahead.

2. Best wishes

Send your colleague off with your best wishes for whatever it is they are going to do next.

• Despite knowing we’re going to miss you, we’re excited that you’re going to new and challenging opportunity. We can’t think of a better person for the job. You deserve it!

We’re really happy that your dreams have come true: that you’re going to be travelling and exploring the world. Just don’t rub it in too hard and too often with instagrammable moments.

On behalf of us all thank you for everything over your time with us: your encouragement, support, humor, and your leadership.

• Thanks for being a great team mate, for teaching me your special spread sheet skills, and most importantly, for sharing my love of chocolate. I couldn’t have wished for a sweeter colleague!

4. Final comment

• Please don't be a stranger. Our door is always open!
• Please remember that to us you are much more than a colleague. You are a friend, and friends keep in touch.  We look forward to catching up with you sometime soon.
• Go well, go strong, and go knowing we think the world of you, and wish you all the best. Keep in touch!

Step Five: Brainstorm the introduction

Write the speech introduction.  You’ll want a couple of sentences to welcome everyone and to acknowledge why you’ve got together.

(There is space on the printable conclusion/introduction brainstorm template to do this.)

• Good afternoon everyone, and thank you for coming.  As we all know, we've gathered to say goodbye to [name] who is leaving us today to take on a new role as [insert name of role e.g. Director of Product Management] for [insert name of company or organization e.g. The Q-R Group]
• Who else has been marking off the days until [name of person] leaves us? From next Monday there’ll be a gap in our team. They’ll be [what ever it is they’re going to do e.g. basking in the sun on a beach in Bali] and we’ll be wondering just how we’re going to manage without them!
• Thanks for coming along to help farewell [name of person]. It’s great to see so many of you here. I hope you’ve brought your tissues to mop up the tears!

Step Six: Linking the pieces together

In this step you're going to link the pieces together to make a complete speech.

You'll see in my example speech I've used most of the notes from the outline, and I've added words where needed to tie it altogether.

Here is the full text of the farewell speech for Sam: your much respected and liked colleague. ☺

It is 516 words long which will take approximately 3-4 minutes to say. (See how many words per minute in a speech for more information.)

Sample farewell speech for a colleague leaving

"Who else has been marking off the days until Sam finally leaves us? It’s sad but from next Monday there’ll be a huge hole in our team. She’ll be basking in the sun on a beach in Bali and we’ll be wondering how we’re going to manage without her.

Sam’s been with us for five years now. She began as a senior product development manager and it didn’t seem that long before she was promoted to new group product development manager, a position she’s held for last three years.

And now she’s got her passport updated, bought flight tickets, and she’s off travelling.

I know I speak on behalf of all of us when I say how much we’ve enjoyed working alongside you Sam. We’ve love and admire the initiatives you put in place. They tick all the boxes: increased diversification, sustainability, productivity and workplace satisfaction.

Crazy Hat Friday reminds us to not take ourselves too seriously and to laugh! Something we all need to do.

The development of the recently implemented very successful mentoring and ongoing training scheme to nurture junior product developers will help ensure we continue to grow. While the push to diversify and develop high value niche products has already proven itself lucrative. You were right! There was a need.

In our opinion, what made these initiatives even better was how you put them in place. You make it easy for people to cooperate and collaborate with each other. We admire and respect how easily you share the spotlight, how you made a point of always acknowledging what someone had done in order to get a project over the line, and especially how careful you were to NOT overload already stretched workers, and to watch for signs of stress.

You’re a true team player and leader – a person who understands how to draw the best from the people they work with.

So yes, we’re going to miss you."

"To help get over your absence we’ll cheer ourselves up by remembering the time you thought it was ‘crazy hat’ Friday and arrived at the office in time to meet the trade delegation from China in the foyer wearing an oversized lolly-pink top hat decorated with bright yellow daffodils bouncing at the ends of long green springs.

It was the best, and has made us smile ever since!

Joking aside, next Monday, the reality will hit home.

Go well, go strong, and go knowing we think the world of you, and wish you all the best. Keep in touch!"

Step seven: testing and rehearsing

To be absolutely sure you've got the tone and timing right, that you've included everything you should  and haven’t put in anything that would be best left out, read your speech to a couple of trusted colleagues. Be guided by their comments, and alter your speech if needed.

Once you're satisfied that you've done the best you can please rehearse. Practice is what makes the difference! Getting the words sorted is an important step. However rehearsing can take your speech from ordinary to extraordinary!

For more go to: how to rehearse a speech .

Farewell speech for a colleague printables

 Click the links below to access the three google word documents. (Please note, the links will open in a new window.

• Brainstorm template for the body of the speech
• Brainstorm template for the speech conclusion and introduction
• Farewell speech for a colleague sample outline

To make a copy, share, email, download or print the document, click open the drop down 'file' menu as shown in the screenshot below. Then click on the option you want.

Another option for getting a farewell speech done

If you've run out of time to write the speech yourself, or you're finding it too tricky to manage, there's another option you may like to consider.

That is getting me to do it for you. I offer a custom speech writing service and have written numerous farewell speeches for clients over the years. You can find out more about that here: speech writer for hire .

speaking out loud 

Subscribe for  FREE weekly alerts about what's new For more see  speaking out loud  

Top 10 popular pages

• Welcome speech
• Demonstration speech topics
• Impromptu speech topic cards
• Thank you quotes
• Impromptu public speaking topics
• Phrases for welcome speeches
• Student council speeches
• Free sample eulogies

From fear to fun in 28 ways

A complete one stop resource to scuttle fear in the best of all possible ways - with laughter.

Useful pages

• Search this site
• About me & Contact
• Blogging Aloud
• Free e-course
• Privacy policy

©Copyright 2006-24 www.write-out-loud.com

Designed and built by Clickstream Designs

The best virtual farewell speech to colleagues: Ideas and templates

Rachita Jain

Context of virtual farewells in today's remote work environment

1. embracing the virtual goodbye, 2. globally distributed teams, 3. technology as an enabler, 4. incorporating creativity, 5. the emotional impact, importance of heartfelt farewell speeches to bid adieu to colleagues, 1. the emotional significance of giving a farewell speech to colleagues, 2. acknowledging individual contributions, 3. inspiring future success, 4. strengthening bonds across multiple platforms, tips to write a heartfelt goodbye speech to colleagues.

• Start your farewell speech to colleagues by expressing your gratitude towards your team, and the organization. Then, thank them for their support, mentorship, and friendship during your time toget her .
• Tell your colleagues how much you have enjoyed working with them- Highlight the positive experiences that you have shared, the mutual support, and the friendship that has developed.
• Tell your coworkers about specific anecdotes and experiences you've had. Highlight experiences that were important to you and aided your development on both a personal and professional level.
• In your farewell speech to colleagues, honor their contributions and milestones. Acknowledge the collective efforts of the staff and the individual accomplishments of colleagues.
• Recognize the contributions of specific colleagues who have made a significant impact on your career or who have been particularly supportive. Personalize your appreciation.
• When expressing your emotions, be sincere. Share your feelings, whether they are ones of sadness, nostalgia, or anticipation for the future. Your speech becomes more relatable and moving when it is authentic.
• Encourage your colleagues to stay in touch. Let your colleagues know that you're open to hearing from them in the future and that you would love to keep in touch.
• Extend your best wishes to your colleagues and the organization for continued success and show that you genuinely care about their future endeavors.
• Remember to thank the leaders of the company. Do not forget to express your gratitude to those who have been a source of support for you over the years.
• Express your excitement for the future. Share your enthusiasm about your next adventure and permit your colleagues to be as excited for you as you are.
• Conclude the speech by thanking everyone one last time for their time, support, and guidance throughout your time in the company.

Virtual farewell speech to colleagues at workplace sample- 1

Virtual farewell speech to colleagues at workplace sample- 2, tips to deliver a heartfelt goodbye speech to colleagues, 1. practice before you deliver, 2. start with a thank you, 3. make it personal, 4. keep it positive, 5. sprinkle in some humor, 6. embrace emotions, 7. value relationships, 8. individual thank you, 9. eye contact, 10. end with well wishes, other blogs you might like.

Remote Workers — January 24, 2024

Remote Workers — January 17, 2024

Remote Workers — January 3, 2024

Remote Workers — January 2, 2024

Remote Workers — December 20, 2023

Remote Workers — December 13, 2023

Join the AllRemote community Accelerate the shift towards remote work

Jobs by expertise, jobs by skill.

© Copyright AllRemote 2022. All Rights Reserved

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

How to Write a Farewell Speech – Tips & Samples

Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

A farewell speech is one of the best ways to send off a departing co-worker, friend, or family member. It allows you to express gratitude for their contributions and wish them well in their new endeavors.

Additionally, a farewell speech can be a great opportunity to reflect on shared memories and offer wisdom for the future. Let’s see what the best farewell speech looks like based on different situations. I’ll explain everything plus include sample farewell speeches. 

Farewell or Goodbye Speeches

As you move on to the next phase in your life, it is important to take a second to reflect on special memories and all you’ve accomplished. A farewell speech is a perfect opportunity to do just that.

Whether you are retiring, resigning, or moving to a new company, a farewell speech is a chance to look back on your time at your current job and express your gratitude for the experiences you have had. It is also an opportunity to say goodbye to your colleagues and wish them all the best in their future.

What Is a Farewell Speech?

A farewell speech is a type of speech that is typically given at the end of a person’s tenure in a particular role. It’s often a professional goodbye but with a relaxed tone given at a farewell party or event.

For example, a student might give a farewell speech upon graduating from college, or an employee might give a farewell speech upon retiring from a company. Sometimes, a person might also give a farewell speech when leaving a particular organization or position, even if they aren’t retiring.

A prepared farewell speech usually contains personal memories, thank yous, feelings about the people involved, and a simple goodbye in person.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Farewell speeches are typically intended to be positive and uplifting and to thank those who have helped the speaker during their time in the role. They may also include words of wisdom or advice for those who remain.

What Should I Say in a Farewell Speech?

When leaving an organization or group, it is customary to give a farewell speech. This speech is a chance to thank the people who have helped you during your time with the organization and to wish them well in the future.

You may also want to share some advice or words of wisdom with the group. When preparing your speech, consider what you would like to say and what message you would like to leave with the group.

It’s also important to be mindful of the tone of your speech. A farewell speech should be positive and uplifting, so avoid dwelling on negative experiences or speaking ill of the organization or group.

Take the time to write your thoughts and practice delivering your speech before the big day. With a little preparation, you can deliver a farewell speech that is both memorable and meaningful.

How Do I Start a Farewell Speech?

When giving a farewell speech, it is common to start by thanking the audience for attending. This helps to set a polite and appreciative tone for the rest of the speech.

It is also common to give a brief overview of the event or occasion that is being farewelled. For example, you might talk about how much fun the party was or how successful the project was.

This helps to create a sense of shared experience and nostalgia. Finally, it is common to finish with a positive message or thought. This could be something as simple as wishing everyone all the best for the future.

By starting with thanking the audience, you can ensure that your farewell speech is polite and engaging.

What Do You Say in a Goodbye Speech for a Colleague?

Finding the right words to say when saying goodbye to a colleague can be difficult. After all, you want to express your appreciation for their contributions while also acknowledging the sadness of their departure. Here are some of my suggestions for what to say in a goodbye speech to a colleague.

What They Contributed

First, take a moment to reflect on the positive impact that your colleague has had on your life and career. What have they taught you? How have they made you a better person? Be sure to express your gratitude for their guidance and mentorship.

Best Wishes

Next, wish them all the best in their future endeavors. Whether they are moving on to another job or retiring, let them know that you believe in their ability to achieve great things.

Finally, offer your support if they ever need anything. Let them know that you’re always there for them, whether it’s a reference for a new job or just someone to talk to.

Saying goodbye to a colleague can be tough, but expressing your appreciation and support can make it a bit easier for both of you.

What Do You Say in a Short Leaving Speech?

It is often said that brevity is the soul of wit. This is certainly true when it comes to giving a leaving speech. Whether you are stepping down from a club presidency or saying farewell to your colleagues at a retirement party,

it is important to keep your remarks brief and to the point. A few key elements should be included in any leaving speech.

First, take a moment to express your gratitude for the opportunity that you have been given. Next, focus on the future and discuss exciting new opportunities. Finally, leave your audience with a positive message, and encourage them to continue working hard in the months and years to come.

How Do You Thank in a Farewell Speech?

One of the most important elements of a farewell speech is thanking the people who have helped you along the way. Whether you are leaving a job, a team, or an institution, it is important to take a moment to express your gratitude.

Thank those who have been directly involved in your journey. This may include mentors, colleagues, or supervisors.

Next, thank the larger community that has supported you. This could include friends, family, or simply those who have taken an interest in your work.

Don’t forget to thank yourself! After all, it is your hard work and dedication that have brought you to this point.

Tips for Delivering a Memorable Farewell Speech at Work

I’ve written a number of speeches in my life, and these are some of my tips on how to do it right.

Draft an Outline

I’m insistent about outlines in every aspect of my life, from the next book I’m writing to an article and, yes, speeches. When preparing to give a farewell speech, one of the most important things you can do is create an outline. This will help you to organize your thoughts and ensure that your speech flows smoothly.

A good outline will also help you to keep your speech within a reasonable length. If you need help figuring out where to start, there are a few key points you should always include in your farewell speech.

First, thank the audience for their time and attention. Next, introduce yourself and explain why you’re giving the speech. Then, give an overview of the main points you’ll be covering. Finally, conclude with a call to action or a personal message.

Include Relevant Details

Giving a farewell speech can be difficult. You want to say goodbye to your friends and colleagues in a memorable and appropriate way. One of the best ways to do this is to include relevant details in your speech.

For example, you might tell a story about a time when you worked together on a project or helped each other out. This will help to personalize your speech and make it more relatable for your audience.

Including specific details also helps to show that you have been paying attention to the people you are saying goodbye to. It shows that you value their friendship and want to remember the good times you have shared.

Expand on Your Ideas With the Right Tone

Any good speech, whether for a graduation, a retirement, or any other occasion, should have a clear, concise, and cohesive message. It should also be engaging, drawing in the audience and leaving them with a lasting impression.

However, choosing the right tone is one of the most important aspects of giving a speech. The tone of your voice can convey confidence, authority, and sincerity, or it can come across as nervous and uncertain.

If you want to give a farewell speech that will be remembered fondly, it is essential to choose the right tone. A confident and sincere tone will let your audience know that you are sincere in your words and that you believe in what you are saying.

Conversely, a nervous or uncertain tone will make your audience question your message and may leave them feeling uninspired.

Add Humor When Appropriate

As anyone who has ever given a speech knows, it is often difficult to find the right words to say. This is especially true when giving a farewell speech, as you want to strike the right balance between appreciation and levity.

One way to do this is by adding humor when appropriate. A well-placed joke can help to lighten the mood and show your audience that you are comfortable with the situation.

Also, humor can help break the ice, especially if you speak to a group of people who do not know each other well.

Just be sure to keep your jokes tasteful and appropriate for the occasion. With a little humor, you can give a farewell speech that will be remembered for all the right reasons.

Edit Your Speech

When giving a farewell speech, it is important to ensure that your words are well-chosen and carefully edited. This is not a time for spontaneous ramblings or off-the-cuff remarks.

Your farewell speech should be memorable, which means taking the time to edit your words to be powerful and impactful.

There are a few benefits to editing your speech. First, it will help you to choose the right words. You want your words to be meaningful and to capture the essence of what you are trying to say.

Second, editing will help you clarify your thoughts and communicate your message. And finally, editing will help ensure that your speech is free of any grammatical errors.

Ask for a Trusted Colleague’s Opinion

For several reasons, asking for a trusted colleague’s opinion before giving a farewell speech to colleagues can be beneficial. First, it can help to ensure that the speech is memorable and appropriate for the occasion.

It ensures that the speech is well-received by the audience. You can test to see if you’re comfortable with your speech and check that the speech is tailored to the individual’s needs.

Finally, it can help to ensure that the speaker has the opportunity to practice before delivering the speech. Overall, asking for a trusted colleague’s opinion can be a helpful way to prepare for a professional speech of farewell.

Farewell Speech Examples

Use these prompts to create original speeches for your farewell or goodbye. They can be tweaked for funeral speeches, formal farewell speeches, or any other personalized speeches you need.

Example of Farewell Resignation Speech

“Thank you all for being here today. I’m honored to be given the opportunity to say a few words on behalf of everyone.

First, I want to say how much I’ve enjoyed working with everyone over the past year. It’s been a pleasure getting to know you all, and I truly appreciate your support.

As many of you know, I’ve been offered an exciting new opportunity that I’ll be starting next month. While I’m excited about this new chapter in my life, I’m also sad to leave such a great team behind. I assure you that I’ll be available to help with the transition in any way possible.

And, of course, I’ll stay in touch. Thank you all again for everything. I wish you all the best in the future.”

Example of Farewell Speech at Graduation

“As we stand on the threshold of a new phase in our lives, it is natural to feel both excited and apprehensive about what lies ahead. But no matter what the future holds, we will always remember our time together. This school has been our second home, and we will always treasure the fond memories we have made.

As we go our separate ways, let us never forget the lessons we have learned. Let us use them to make the world a better place for all. And let us stay in touch, so we can continue supporting and encouraging each other as we pursue our dreams.

Thank you all for everything. Good luck and best wishes for your future endeavors!”

Example of Farewell Retirement Speeches

“It is with mixed emotions that I stand before you today to deliver my farewell speech. On the one hand, I am sad to be leaving a job I have loved for many years. But on the other hand, I am excited to begin this next chapter in my life.

Retirement allows me to finally pursue some of my long-held dreams and goals. And although I will miss everyone here at the office, I take comfort in knowing we will all remain in touch. I want to thank each and every one of you for your support over the years. It has been truly appreciated.

And although I am looking forward to this next phase of my life, I will always cherish the memories we shared. Thank you.”

Example of Farewell Speech for Colleague Retirement

“On behalf of everyone here at ABC Company, I would like to say a few words to celebrate John Doe’s retirement.

John has been with us for over thirty years, and in that time, he has made an indelible mark on our organization. He has been a mentor to many of us, and his expert advice will be sorely missed.

We are all better for having known John, and we wish him all the best in his retirement. Thank you, John, for everything.”

The Bottom Line

A farewell speech is an important opportunity to express gratitude, offer words of wisdom and a note of memories, and say goodbye to those who have been important in your life. They can hold a humorous tone or lean more towards a simple and respectful tone. 

Farewell speeches can also be a chance to say goodbye to a person or group you may never see again. As such, they offer an opportunity to express sentiments that might otherwise go unsaid.

4 Best Tips on How to Memorize a Speech Quickly

How to Write a Retirement Speech – Samples & Ideas

Leave a Comment

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

© 2024 My Speech Class

Giving a Goodbye Speech to Coworkers

• Cover Letters
• ')" data-event="social share" data-info="Pinterest" aria-label="Share on Pinterest">
• ')" data-event="social share" data-info="Reddit" aria-label="Share on Reddit">
• ')" data-event="social share" data-info="Flipboard" aria-label="Share on Flipboard">

20th Year Anniversary Ideas for Coworkers

Asking coworkers for money for a party, how to say farewell to a co-worker.

• How to Honor a Coworker That Has Passed Away
• Business Etiquette When Co-worker's Husband Dies

Bidding adieu to co-workers is bittersweet, especially if you're leaving for retirement or a big promotion in another city. Giving a goodbye speech allows you to bring closure to your years of dedicated service. Even if you have not been formally asked to speak at your upcoming goodbye send off, it is customary to make an impromptu speech when presented with a sheet cake and farewell card. Luckily, your coworkers will appreciate brevity. To avoid rambling or getting choked up, develop an outline of talking points for the beginning, middle and end of your prepared remarks.

Witty Introduction

Unless you are instructed otherwise, aim for a goodbye speech that is less than five minutes in length. Start by sharing how long you've worked at the company and in what capacity. Be positive, upbeat and keep it light. Telling a work-appropriate joke or using self-effacing humor can help set the tone.

Saying farewell to you, dear friends, is one of the most difficult tasks I have been given since first joining the company 15 years ago. Through choice or necessity, I have worked in just about every department at one time or another. I appreciate everyone coming to wish me goodbye today, even if we've spoken only in the hallway -- and that you're here now mainly for the free coffee and refreshments.

Thoughtful Reflection

Typically, farewell speeches are five minutes or less, so preparing to give a goodbye speech at work should not take much longer. When giving a goodbye speech to coworkers, share what your work has meant to you. Focus on what you have enjoyed and appreciated about your job and fellow employees. Express your thoughts and feelings about leaving. Remember that no job is perfect -- steer clear of touchy subjects when delivering your farewell commentary. Give a general word of thanks to everyone for being great colleagues. Thank certain standouts personally -- such as your boss.

Finding the right words to thank all of you on the team is impossible. Whenever I felt stuck or confused, I didn’t have to look far for help. You taught me even more than I learned in my business classes, and that's saying a lot. Just four years ago, I was a frightened intern hiding in a cubicle. You welcomed me lik­e a family member and helped me grow into a successful professional. In particular, I want to thank my boss, Meredith, for hiring me right out of college and showing me the ropes.

Brief Conclusion

End your goodbye speech by sharing future plans. Consider mentioning your reasons for leaving. Encourage colleagues to stay in touch. Wish everyone well and restate your appreciation.

I am sad to be leaving, but the promotion was just too great to pass up, plus I'm tired of shoveling snow six months out of the year. I hope we stay in touch, because you have been such a big part of my life. I wish you and the company much continued success. Thanks again for everything.

Before, during or after giving a goodbye speech, you may want to show a multimedia presentation. If you are retiring, spice it up with old photos of you and the company through the years of your employment. Background music from the different eras is a nice added touch. Younger employees moving onward and upward can go down memory lane by showing photos taken at company dinners, award presentations, golf outings or sponsored events, for instance.

• Write-Out-Loud.com: Farewell Speeches
• Fond-Farewell.com: Heartfelt Farewell Speech
• Toastmasters: From Hello to Goodbye: Speech Openings and Closings
• University of Pittsburgh: Public Speaking: The Basics

Mary Dowd holds a doctorate in educational leadership and a master’s in counseling and student affairs from Minnesota State Mankato. Helping students succeed has been her passion while serving in many areas of student affairs and adjunct teaching. Currently she is a dean of students at a large, public university. Dr. Dpwd’s writing experience includes published research, training materials and hundreds of practical online articles.

Related Articles

Steps to a good retirement speech, celebration ideas for 30 years at a job, the best ways to quit your job if you love your manager, what to tell your bosses to let them know you really appreciate your job, how to reply to a boss's accolades, things to say in co-workers' birthday cards, how to celebrate a job promotion, introducing yourself at work at an entry level, how to compliment a co-worker to their boss, most popular.

• 1 Steps to a Good Retirement Speech
• 2 Celebration Ideas for 30 Years at a Job
• 3 The Best Ways to Quit Your Job if You Love Your Manager
• 4 What to Tell Your Bosses to Let Them Know You Really Appreciate Your Job

• Job Description
• Work, life and you
• Career Management
• Career, growth & development
• Money Matters
• foundit insight tracker
• Job Search Strategy
• Resume & Cover Letters
• Interview Tips
• COVID-19 Career Advice

If you’re moving on to better opportunities at work or stepping into a new chapter in life, a brief farewell speech can leave a lasting connection with everyone involved.

To make a farewell speech memorable for your team, focus on creating a special tone with a mix of nostalgia, humor, and optimism. The structure is vital, too. Begin with a captivating start, share stories in the main part that highlight the strong bonds within the team, and wrap it up with an inspiring closing line. Sprinkle in some inside jokes to keep it light, express genuine appreciation for those who played a role in the journey, and convey confidence in a successful future.

In other words, aim for all the laughs, tears, and warmth of the best short farewell message or goodbye speech you’ve witnessed…then dial it to 11! This guide covers tips to help you do just that. Learn how to resonate with the perfect balance of humor, inspiration, and expressions of gratitude for any farewell occasion.

Key Elements of a Farewell Speech

Giving a short staff farewell speech is an art. The best ones stir up laughter, tears, and warmth by including certain key ingredients:

Tone: Nostalgic, reflective, optimistic for the future

Aim for sincerity by getting nostalgic about fond memories. For example, “I’ll never forget the late nights we pulled to meet deadlines” or “Alex, your pep talks gave me courage before every presentation.” Be reflective about obstacles overcome and lessons learned. Finally, express confidence and positivity about colleagues’ future opportunities. This uplifts the audience.

For example, “I’ll never forget the creative ways we problem-solved production snafus…” sets a warm, positive tone.

Also Read: How To Write an Interview Confirmation Email

Structure: Opening, body, ending

When saying goodbye, keep it short and sweet. Start with something interesting or a question to catch attention. Then, in the main part, thank important people and teams and celebrate achievements. End by sharing lessons learned and looking forward to the future with optimism.

Anecdotes: Lighthearted stories about your time together

Include funny personal stories, inside jokes, or touching memories that highlight relationships with colleagues. Rather than just thanking the marketing team, share that time they rebranded products overnight after a last-minute executive switch-up.

Specific moments make your short farewell speech more vivid, genuine, and emotionally resonant. For instance, “Priya always made Mondays better with her cheesecakes for employee birthdays.”

Appreciation and thanks

Recognize specific people for the value they added with stories and examples. From senior leaders to receptionists, sincerely thank those who made a difference behind the scenes. This leaves everyone feeling seen and valued.

For example, “To my successor Ramesh – congratulations! With your capabilities, I feel very hopeful for the future direction.”

Delivering a farewell day speech in English allows for the expression of gratitude, recognition of achievements, and the opportunity to convey well-wishes for the future endeavors of departing colleagues or classmates.

Read More: How To Write an Unforgettable Farewell Message

Speech Template

Here’s a general template you can adapt to give a memorable and touching farewell speech:

Grab Attention Upfront

Start strong with a compelling farewell message to a coworker, a rhetorical question, joke, inspirational quote, or poignant memory. This pulls the audience in emotionally. For example:

• “I’ll never forget the creative ways we problem-solved production snafus…”
• “Isha’s sage advice in my early days was a lifeline…”
• “Who knew that baby shower food fight would spark a tradition…”

Describe Fond Memories and Milestones

Share funny anecdotes, accomplishments, and inside stories that capture relationships formed with colleagues over time in your farewell speech to coworkers. Highlight significant milestones reached through teamwork. For example:

• “Priya always made Monday meetings better with her baked goodies… I’ll miss her creative cheesecakes announcing employee birthdays.”
• “Rajesh’s willingness to roll up his sleeves was crucial when pulling that all-nighter to meet the Vision Corp deadline.”
• “Swathi, thanks for the pep talks before every big presentation – your confidence in me meant more than you’ll ever know.”

Related: Best GoodBye Email Examples That You Can Send to Coworkers

Express Appreciation and Best Wishes

Saying goodbye to a valued member of our team is never easy, but with a farewell speech for colleague, you can make it right. Recognize specific people with tailored messages expressing what you value about working together. Wish colleagues and your successor continued growth and success. For example:

• “Sahil, your mentorship and friendship are invaluable – please keep nurturing rising talent.”
• “Nikhil, your dedication behind the scenes kept operations humming – enjoy your well-deserved vacation!”
• “To my successor Ramesh – congratulations! With your capabilities, I feel very hopeful for the department’s future direction.”

Conclude on an Uplifting Note

Share your confidence and optimism surrounding the future of colleagues and your own next steps. Rally everyone around exciting opportunities ahead. For example:

• “With the strong foundations we’ve built, I see only great things on the horizon that will make us all proud.”
• “I’ll cherish the lessons learned and friendships gained here as I pursue new professional challenges.”

Memorable Closing Lines

Impactful short farewell speech often wrap up with inspirational final thoughts or quotes. Some examples of memorable closings from famous farewell speeches:

• “This is not an end, but a beginning” – Martin Luther King Jr. (hopeful)
• “We did not change as we grew older – we just became more clearly ourselves” – Lynn Hall (nostalgic)
• “Every farewell combines a hint of sadness with the expectation of the next meeting” – Robert Peacock (bittersweet)
• “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened” – Dr. Seuss (uplifting)
• “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard” – A.A. Milne (heartfelt)
• “Goodbye middle school – I can finally stop pretending I like you” – Anonymous (humorous)
• “We all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere” – Tim McGraw (poignant)
• “Funny how goodbyes are always the easiest words to say and the hardest to explain” – Anonymous (reflective)
• “This is the end…my only friend, the end” – The Doors (dramatic)
• “Well, this is it. I’m finally free of this mess. Good luck, suckers!” – Anonymous (snarky)

Pick a closing line tone that matches the vibe of your farewell situation and the message you want to leave with colleagues. Tailor it to uplift and inspire around new beginnings post-goodbye!

Related: Thoughtful Retirement Wishes Samples and Farewell Messages for Colleagues

Sample Closing Lines: 

• As I start on new journeys, the wonderful memories we have will be kept warmly in my heart for when I want to remember and smile.
• Even when life takes us on surprising paths, the connections we made staying up late to meet deadlines and playing jokes in the office will connect us for many years ahead.
• When we say goodbye it makes us feel sad, but being this upset proves how much happiness we shared while spending time together.
• This farewell is not a final stop, but rather a stepping stone that propels us forward to bravely accept the thrilling uncertainties of life.
• You are more than work friends to me; you’re like my family. I eagerly anticipate our lively get-togethers and festivities in the upcoming years.
• The warmth from our team, similar to rays of sun coming through clouds, will encourage me during future difficulties and make me think of the good times that are yet to come.
• Having achieved successes and gained knowledge, I perceive continuous growth, potential, and clear skies in the future for all of us who are paving new paths.
• As we write the next parts of our lives, I wish that a small thing or even a humorous incident will bring back happy memories of the wonderful times we shared.
• Words fail to express the depth of value I carry from our time spent together. Be aware that my world has been greatly improved because of it.

Also Read: How to Write an Effective Formal Email

Practice Tips

With a short farewell message in hand, finesse the final delivery:

• Read Aloud: Get a sense of timing and catch clumsy wording. Edit areas that feel awkward or long-winded.
• Time Carefully: Keep a farewell message for team members for 5-10 minutes max, or attention wanders. Better to leave desiring a little more.
• Record Yourself: Seeing impacts differently than hearing. Watch the video to refine body language and address any nervous tics. The more comfortable you seem, the more audience members relax and connect.
• Farewell day speech in English: Giving a speech in English would be a better choice than speaking in another language.

Crafting a brief goodbye note is both an artistic skill and a precious talent. When executed properly, it holds deep significance for both the person who writes it and those who receive it. A proper goodbye speech to colleagues expresses nostalgia for the past and optimism for the future. It has nice tales about the friendships made, and sincere thanks to those who influenced your time there. Learn these elements well from the first sentence to the last, and your words will surely create a feeling of warmth, friendship, and motivation.

Q1. What are some examples of a short farewell message?

Example short farewell messages: “It was really nice to work with you! Keep in touch.” “I hope you find success in your new journeys.” “May you be happy in whatever place life leads you to afterwards.” Keep them brief but personalized when saying goodbye.

Q2. What should I include in a farewell message for a team member?

Talk about certain moments, private humorous stories, or the good characteristics you admire in your colleague. Give your gratitude and best hopes for their next achievements. Share how your team or company won’t be quite the same without them.

Q3. How do I give the best farewell speech to colleagues?

When you write your farewell party speech, start with old memories that bring smiles, then thank those who mattered a lot and end by sharing positive thoughts about what’s coming. Mix in some jokes with sincere feelings. End your speech with a touching quote or some words from the heart that inspire and raise spirits. Rehearse to achieve a fluent, self-assured presentation.

Q4. What should a farewell message say when writing to a coworker?

The best farewell speech will describe a private joke or memory that highlights your connection. Talk about particular instances when working together was enjoyable, and explain what those experiences taught you. Express well wishes and keep communication open for future advice or coffee catch-ups.

Q5. What’s a good example of a short farewell speech for college graduates?

For a short farewell speech, begin by recalling fond memories from university days or amusing incidents that happened in the dormitory. Express gratitude for the teachers and the bonds of friendship formed. End by expressing your trust in overcoming upcoming challenges, strengthened by the experiences and relationships built. Connect past learnings with a hopeful outlook for what lies ahead.

Q6. What are some examples of a farewell email to colleagues?

Briefly recount meaningful moments working together. Thank specific people for their guidance. Tell them that you believe that wonderful chances are coming for your colleagues because of the skills you have sharpened as a team. Say that you are ready to assist during the changes that lie ahead.

Q7. What elements make a good farewell speech for an office colleague?

Tell about amusing moments that show what your office is like. Value everyone who helps make working there unique. Offer sincere well wishes to those staying and departing for their next adventures.

Q8. What are some ideas for giving a lighthearted, funny farewell speech?

Share funny tales about the friendships made with unique colleagues. Lightly tease about stuff you will not regret, such as morning meetings that start too early. Recall the funny times at work to create smiles and fond memories. Add jokes but keep the mood upbeat.

Q9. How can I make my farewell day speech lively and engaging for my English class?

Add some student slang and funny nicknames for the amazing teachers and staff. Share some funny stories from school and inside jokes. Thank those who made your school journey special. Wrap it up with some cheerful words to lift the spirits of your fellow graduates!

More articles

Accountant job role & responsibilities, part-time online job trends in 2024, top common ips interview questions and answers.

Latest article

Common bpo interview questions and answers, how to write a transfer request letter and email: tips and samples.

© Monster. All rights reserved.

• foundit Malaysia
• foundit Indonesia
• foundit Hong Kong
• foundit Philippines
• foundit Singapore
• foundit Gulf

Job Seekers

Popular category.

• Insights Tracker 584
• Interview Tips 566
• Career Management 497
• Job Search Strategy 333
• Resume & Cover Letters 232
• Motivation & Thought Leadership 206

Editor Picks

How To Deliver An Unforgettable Retirement Speech For A Colleague (With Examples)

Hrideep barot.

• Speech Writing

Do you want to deliver a heartfelt speech for a colleague who’s leaving work but are unsure how to do it? 

Don’t worry. You’re not alone. 

For many people, retirement from a place of work can be a very emotional experience. Especially if they’ve been at a place of work for a long time, leaving it–and the people they’ve worked with–can be quite tough. After all, with retirement,  an employee is going to be leaving his or her employment permanently.

And this emotional roller-coaster is not exclusive to a the person retiring. 

Their co-workers, too, can land a seat at it. Especially if they were close to the person retiring or are quite close to retiring themselves. 

But even if you’re not at the front seat of the rollercoaster and simply wish to deliver a nice speech to a friendly co-worker finally leaving the company, finding the right words for the speech can be a confusing task. 

Writing and delivering a speech is a tough job.

A good retirement speech needs to factor in many elements. Farewell speeches are important as they express to the person leaving the place of work gratitude for the effort, time, and experiences they’ve provided to the company. They usually include a person’s past history, achievements, services, etc. And are an essential element of a good place of work.

Don’t worry. 

We’re there to help you. 

What Is A Retirement Speech? 

A retirement or farewell address is a speech that is delivered by or for an individual leaving a work position or workplace. They are often used by public figures like politicians, actors, etc. as a capstone to their career, or as statements from persons giving reasons for their leaving. 

In a workplace, a farewell speech is often given by a junior member of the organization. A friend, colleague, or junior member are a few common choices for delivering a farewell speech. Sometimes, if a person has done remarkable work or has left an imprint on the organization, the speech might be given by a senior member of the company. 

As mentioned above, retirement speeches are delivered to thank an employee leaving a workplace for all the time, effort, and experience that was offered by them to the company throughout their tenure, and is a necessary element of a good and progressive place of work that values its employees.

What Do I Need To Include In A Retirement Speech? 

1. Talk About Their Achievements

Who doesn’t like reminded about the good stuff they’ve achieved in life, right? This can be especially important during a farewell speech, as a way of thanking the collegue for the positive elements that they’ve added to the company over the years. 

While it’s a good idea to add big achievements, you can also make it more special for the collegue by mentioning something small that they might have done that got overshadowed by all the other big stuff. The leaving person might not even be aware of doing it! 

For example, if the collegue was someone who could always make people’s Mondays feel like Fridays, then that’s a pretty big achievement too, right? Make sure to include it in your speech!

2. Narrate Anecdotes and Stories 

What’s an emotional speech without a story or two, eh? 

Anecdotes and stories are not just a great way of making a speech lively and interesting, but they can also make the speech more personal both; for the person leaving and the ones staying behind. 

So, try to include at least 2-3 anecdotes in your speech. 

If you don’t know the co-worker that well or are simply unsure of what to include, you can reach out to someone who was close to the person retiring and ask for their input. 

Regardless, stories have the power to really captivate an audience as long as we use the 3 core elements of

• Characterisation
• Final Takeaway

We’ve elaborated on these storytelling tactics in great detail in this video which I HIGHLY recommend you check out if you have a retirement speech coming up:

3. Don’t Forget The Jokes 

Humor is a great way to level up any speech, and a retirement speech is no exception to it’s charm. Humor works to lighten the overall mood, which can be quite heavy for a day like this. 

So, try to sprinkle a couple of jokes throughout your speech. You can even combine jokes and anecdotes and tell a funny story –maybe a memorable incident that happened with the retiring co-worker in the past!

For more information on how to make your speech funny, check out our article on A Guide To Using Humor In Your Speech.

 4. Add A Personal Touch 

Don’t just copy paste a random speech from Google. Instead, take your time with the speech. Remember that retirement is a cornerstone in most people’s life, and treat it as such. 

Adding little personal details here and there–little quirks that your colleague had, or memorable moments they had at the workplace–goes a great way to make the person in question feel important, liked, and most importantly: appreciated for their efforts. 

5. Talk About Their Personality 

What was the colleague like? What made them different from other people in the workplace? If there was one word that you could describe their personality, what would it be? 

Talking about their personal qualities makes the person retiring more real. It reminds them–and the people listening–that they were not just another part in a corporate machine, but a human being. That is someone with feelings, memories, good days, and bad days–just like you. 

6. Don’t Neglect Speaking About The Future 

While it’s important to give due importance to the past while delivering a retirement speech, it’s also imperative to not neglect talking about what’s ahead i.e the future. Often, people can get so fixated on the good stuff in the past that they don’t notice the amazing stuff coming up ahead. 

Is there something the person leaving always wanted to do, but couldn’t because they were so busy with work? 

Say, did they always want to go to a nature retreat, spend more time with their spouse, or work at that bar at the end of the street? 

Well, now would be the time to bring that up! 

Don’t just ramble on about stuff that’s already done. Talk about the opportunities coming upz too! 

7. Include mementos and gifts 

If a colleague is leaving work–especially if they’re someone who’s contributed a lot to a place–chances are, they’re going to be given a small memento for their work all these years. This can be given by anyone–another co-worker, you, or even higher-ups. 

So, make sure to check in with your co-workers about the status of a memento. If it’s going to be included, you can include a small introduction leading up to the handing of the gift right into your speech end. 

8. When In Doubt, Ask 

This piece of advice can come especially in handy if you didn’t know the former co-worker that well. If you’re unsure whether to include a personal detail or not–or are simply in a dearth of personal information–go ahead and ask someone else for their input. This someone else can be anyone: a close friend of the colleague, a family member, your boss, or even the colleague themself! 

Don’t be shy to ask questions. 

Sample Retirement Speech 

Dear Hannah,

Today is the day you retire from St.Mary’s Public School after over twenty years of teaching English to high-schoolers—most of whom had no interest in learning anything in the first place!

In spite of this hindrance, you never ceased delivering the best you possibly could. When you first started working with us, you were simply a substitute teacher that the students saw occasionally. Remember your first day and the prank that the students played on you?

The entire class banded together and attacked you with a string of questions—none of which had anything to do with English, by the way. But instead of waiting for you to answer, the moment you opened your mouth, the student pretended to fall asleep!

Once you got the hang of it, you turned into a prankster yourself! You played along with the class by listening to a student begin a question but then acted like you’d fallen asleep—just like they had when you were trying to answer—before they finished it.

It was the first time a teacher had chosen to not only indulge their silly pranks but also pranked them right back! Instead of punishing them, you tried to understand them, to relate to them. And you continued trying to do so for the rest of the week.

The students fell in love with you that day, and their admiration for you only grew over the next week. I know this because a few days later when I showed up for class, nobody wanted to learn anything about Shakespeare!

And yet, you not only managed to befriend the students, but you also became friends with the teachers!

You were the only topic of discussion—both, in the classroom and later, in the staff room. In fact, your little stunt with the students had made most of the other teachers realize that they needed to step up their game, too! We had a friendly little competition going after you joined us permanently!

And this was not an isolated incident. Over the years, you have inspired and connected with multiple generations of students and classrooms. So many children have fallen in love with the English language because you taught them to love it.

Just look around the room and you will know that I’m telling the truth—although the crowd could also be because this is probably the last time many of us will get to gobble down your famous baking concoctions!  

Truly, we will miss your cookies almost as much as we will miss you!

You have spent almost your whole shaping the lives of people who would later go on to shape the world. You have given your one hundred percent to the classroom—now it’s time you give your one hundred percent to yourself!

During one of our many, many heartfelt conversations, you told me that when you finally retired, you would love to travel the world with your husband and to get to spend more time with your grandchildren.

 Well, now you can!

And we can’t wait for our Facebook Feed to be spammed by all the pictures you’re certainly going to upload!

Now, we’d love you to have this little token of appreciation for all the work you’ve done for our school.

5 Ways To Make A Retirement Speech (More) Special 

Now that you know all the stuff you need to include in a retirement speech and have an example of how to phrase it in hand, let’s move onto the next step: how to add that touch of uniqueness to your speech and make it truly memorable. 

1. Prepare A Skit

Adding a skit is an excellent way of making a retirement speech memorable. The theme for the skit can be anything. However, make sure it’s relevant to the retiring person’s life. A good idea is to structure the skit around some memorable incident from the person’s time at the workplace. 

It can be a funny incident, or an emotional one, or even an instance when they inspired you! 

If you’re not sure about which incident to pick, try asking someone who’s close friends with the person. The skit doesn’t need to be over-the-top or elaborate. You don’t need to get costumes or spend hours preparing it. Everyone has work to do and deadlines to meet. 

To save time, you can stick to a simple 3-5 minute skit with simple dialogues and few characters. You don’t need to dress up, either. 

It’s the thought that counts, after all. 

2. Make A Video! 

A video is another great way of making a retirement speech memorable. 

To do this, collect videos and photographs or any other material relevant to the departing employee and organize the contents into a small video that you can show either before or after your speech! Make sure the video isn’t too long, and that it has a positive note. 

3. Give Them A Personalized Souvenir 

While a token of appreciation is something they’re going to get from the company’s side, if a co-worker has truly touched your life, then giving them a personalized souvenir from the employee’s side is another great idea to make a retirement day unforgettable. 

The souvenir doesn’t have to be something expensive or over-the-top either. Rather, something handmade or something personalized might be a better idea. 

For example, you can give the employee a jar filled with little note cards that the other employees have written for them. 

4. Switch Up The Format 

Another way to make a retirement speech unique is by switching up the traditional speech format for something more fun! 

Instead, you could write and deliver the speech like a poem–or even a short story! If you want to make things even more interesting, you can turn it into a continuous story by involving a couple of more people with you! However, make sure to check in with the management before you do so, as time constraints or following a standard speech format might be an issue. 

If you want some inspiration on unique storytelling formats and approaches you can use for your retirement speech, we’ve explained a few in simple terms in this video:

5. Coordinate Your Dressing

Is there a particular way your retiring co-worker always dressed? A color or pattern they favored? Or a shirt they couldn’t seem to get rid of? 

Well, now’s the time to use their personality quirks to your advantage!

Try remembering if there’s anything related to dressing sense that set your departing colleague apart, and coordinate with the rest of your colleagues to spruce up as they once did! 

Remember: it’s not necessary to look like carbon copies of your departing friend. You don’t need to stress if your T-shirt is the exact color or pattern as theirs. A close-copy works just as well. 

Level up your public speaking in 15 minutes!

Get the exclusive Masterclass video delivered to your inbox to see immediate speaking results.

The Masterclass video is on its way to your inbox.

Conclusion 

To sum up, writing a retirement speech for a colleague is not as hard as it sounds. Retirement speeches are offered to commemorate a work that an employee has done for a company and are usually delivered by close friends, fellow co-workers, or sometimes even someone higher up. They usually include a person’s past history, achievements, personality quirks, memorable incidents, etc. Add a touch of uniqueness to the mix, and you’re ready to bid adieu to your colleague with a bang! 

Enroll in our transformative 1:1 Coaching Program

Schedule a call with our expert communication coach to know if this program would be the right fit for you

How to Negotiate: The Art of Getting What You Want

10 Hand Gestures That Will Make You More Confident and Efficient

Interrupted while Speaking: 8 Ways to Prevent and Manage Interruptions

• [email protected]
• +91 98203 57888

Get our latest tips and tricks in your inbox always

Copyright © 2023 Frantically Speaking All rights reserved

Kindly drop your contact details so that we can arrange call back

Select Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria AmericanSamoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Colombia Comoros Congo Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Rwanda Samoa San Marino Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Tajikistan Thailand Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Wallis and Futuna Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe land Islands Antarctica Bolivia, Plurinational State of Brunei Darussalam Cocos (Keeling) Islands Congo, The Democratic Republic of the Cote d'Ivoire Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Guernsey Holy See (Vatican City State) Hong Kong Iran, Islamic Republic of Isle of Man Jersey Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Lao People's Democratic Republic Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Macao Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Mozambique Palestinian Territory, Occupied Pitcairn Réunion Russia Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan Da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Sao Tome and Principe Somalia Svalbard and Jan Mayen Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tanzania, United Republic of Timor-Leste Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S.

Farewell Speech: Words Marking LIfe’s Transitions

When leaving a job, position, or place, it is common to give a farewell speech if there is a get-together in your honor. You might graciously thank your colleagues, friends, and neighbors for the good times you enjoyed together, share some stories, and express your regrets upon leaving.

As the time to bid adieu draws near, the bittersweet emotions of a farewell speech come into play.  Farewell addresses  mark significant milestones , be it in schools, workplaces, or any other sphere of life. They serve as an opportunity to look back on cherished memories, express gratitude, and inspire others for the journey ahead.

This article delves into the essence of a farewell speech, exploring the power of nostalgia, the importance of heartfelt words, and the potential to ignite hope as we embrace new chapters in our lives.

Table of Contents

What Are Some Occasions Where You May Be Called Upon To Give A Farewell Speech?

Several occasions may call upon a farewell speech. Here are a few common situations:

• When someone is  retiring from their profession  after a long and successful career, a farewell speech is often given to honor their contributions, express appreciation, and wish them well in their future endeavors.
•  At the  end of an academic journey , whether it’s high school, college, or any other educational institution, students may deliver a farewell speech to reflect on their experiences, thank their teachers and peers, and share aspirations for the future.
•  When  leaving a job or embarking on a new career path , a farewell speech can be an opportunity to express gratitude to colleagues, mentors, and superiors, share reflections on professional growth, and bid farewell to the work community.
•   Moving away from a community  or a place where you have established connections can warrant a farewell speech. It allows you to express appreciation for friendships, memories, and the community’s impact on your life.
•  Farewell speeches can also be given during  farewell parties  or gatherings organized to bid farewell to a friend, colleague, or loved one who is leaving for an extended period or permanently. It provides an opportunity to celebrate the person’s presence in our lives and convey your best wishes for their future.

Sentiments You Might Express When:

Leaving a job.

Thank the organization  for the employment opportunity, support, and professional growth provided during your tenure. Acknowledge the hard work, contributions, and camaraderie of your colleagues, expressing appreciation for their collaboration and support.

Discuss positive things  like significant achievements or projects completed, showcasing the impact and value you brought to the organization.  Extend your best wishes to the organization, your colleagues, and the team for their future success, and express excitement for your own future endeavors.

Transferring To Another Office

Share how the  experience in the current office has contributed to your personal and professional development , highlighting the skills and knowledge gained.

Express excitement about the upcoming transfer , emphasizing the new challenges, perspectives, and opportunities that lie ahead in the new work environment. Express your eagerness to work with the new team, learn from their expertise, and contribute to their success while expressing gratitude for the relationships built in the current office.

Thank the neighbors, friends, and members of the community  for their support, friendship, and the memories created during your time in the area.

Reflect on specific memories or experiences  that hold a special place in your heart, highlighting their positive impact on your life.

Talk about your anticipation for the new home and location , emphasizing the opportunities for personal growth, new experiences, and building new connections.

Assure your current community that you value the relationships formed and express your commitment to staying connected, despite the physical distance, and continuing to foster those friendships.

Joining The Military

Express your patriotism  and duty by discussing your deep sense of pride and commitment to joining the military. Emphasize your dedication to serving your country and protecting its values.

Discuss your readiness to face the challenges and responsibilities  that come with military service, highlighting your determination to contribute to the defense and well-being of your nation.

Going Away To College

Thank your family, friends, and mentors for the role they played in preparing you for college.

Highlight the opportunities for personal growth, intellectual development, and building new relationships.

Leaving Your Post In An Organization

Thank the organization for the opportunities, experiences, and support you received during your time in your position, expressing sincere gratitude to your colleagues, supervisors, and mentors for their guidance and collaboration.

Acknowledge the collective effort and teamwork of your colleagues, acknowledging their contributions and expressing gratitude for the collaboration and camaraderie experienced while working together.

Extend your best wishes to the organization, your colleagues, and the team to carry on the work and achieve future goals.

Who Should You Say Farewell To?

The specific individuals or groups you should say goodbye to vary depending on the context and your relationship with them. Here are some common groups of people you may consider saying farewell to:

• When leaving a job or transferring to another office, it is customary to  say farewell to your colleagues  and coworkers. This includes your immediate team members, colleagues from different departments, and those with whom you have collaborated closely.
•  It is respectful to  bid farewell to your supervisors and managers  who have provided guidance, mentorship, and support during your time in the organization.
•  If you have had a supervisory or leadership role, it is important to  say goodbye to your subordinates  or team members. Recognize their contributions, express appreciation for their efforts, and wish them continued success.
•  If you have established  relationships with clients or customers  during your time in a business or professional setting, it can also be appropriate to say farewell to them. Express your appreciation, and provide any necessary transition information.
•  Bid farewell to  individuals you have forged close friendships or personal connections wit h, expressing appreciation for their friendship and expressing a desire to stay in touch.

How Do You Organize A Farewell Speech?

Organizing a farewell speech involves structuring your thoughts and ideas in a coherent and engaging manner. Here are some steps to help you organize your farewell speech effectively:

• Introduction:  Start with a warm greeting and express gratitude for the opportunity to address the audience.
•  State the purpose of your speech, whether it’s leaving a job, transferring to another office, or any other relevant context.
•   Reflect on your time or experiences:  Share your journey and highlight the significant moments, accomplishments, or challenges you encountered during your time in the role or organization.
•  Mention specific projects, initiatives, or collaborations that were memorable or impactful.
•   Express gratitude and appreciation:  Thank the individuals or groups who have supported and influenced you throughout your journey.
•  Acknowledge the contributions of colleagues, supervisors, mentors, and other important figures who have played a role in your success.
•   Share well wishes and future aspirations:  Extend your best wishes to the organization, colleagues, and teammates, expressing confidence in their future endeavors.
•   Offer words of encouragement and support  for ongoing projects or initiatives, showing your continued investment in their success.
•   Closing:  Wrap up your speech by reflecting on the lessons learned and personal growth you have experienced.
•  Conclude  with a heartfelt thank you and express your gratitude once again.
•  Leave the audience with a positive and inspiring note , emphasizing the value of the connections made and the growth experienced.

Remember to keep your speech concise, engaging, and personalized. Use appropriate humor, storytelling, and anecdotes to connect with the audience. Practice your speech to ensure smooth delivery and maintain a genuine and sincere tone throughout.

How Can You Make Your Farewell Speech Memorable?

To make your farewell speech memorable, consider incorporating the following tips:

• Share personal anecdotes , stories, or experiences that are meaningful to you and relevant to your time in the organization.
•   Be authentic  and let your emotions come through in your speech. Share your gratitude, joy, nostalgia, or even a touch of humor.
•   Paint a vivid picture with your words , using descriptive language and imagery to evoke emotions and create a memorable experience for the audience. Use metaphors, similes, or powerful statements to make your speech more impactful.
•   Humor  can make your farewell speech more engaging and memorable. Share funny anecdotes or witty remarks that relate to your time in the organization, but keep it appropriate and inclusive.
•   Express genuine appreciation and gratitude  to the individuals, teams, or the organization as a whole. Highlight specific contributions, support, or mentorship that made a difference to you.
•   Deliver with confidence and passion , speak clearly, and use appropriate gestures and body language to convey your message.
•  End your speech with a positive and uplifting message. Use the right words to leave the audience feeling inspired, motivated, and encouraged.

Farewell American Political Speeches

Farewell speeches have long held a significant place in American political history. From George Washington’s farewell address to modern-day presidential speeches, they have served as pivotal moments of reflection and transition. These speeches, delivered before Congress, the Senate, and the American people, capture the essence of a leader’s journey and their vision for the nation.

Presidents And Vice Presidents

Standing in the hallowed halls of the White House or addressing a crowd in New York, presidents and vice presidents have bid farewell to their political life, offering profound insights and farewell sayings. They have expressed gratitude to their fellow citizens and acknowledged the great nation they had the privilege to serve.

These farewell speeches have become a part of the history of the world, as they encapsulate the spirit of American democracy and the principles upon which it was built. They have sparked moments of contemplation and ignited a collective sense of pride and unity.

President Eisenhower

As President Eisenhower once said, “The last day in office does not mark the end, but rather the beginning of a new chapter.” These speeches serve as a powerful reminder that political transitions are part of the democratic process, and they inspire hope for the future.

In the State of the Union or before the United Nations, leaders have used their farewell speeches to reflect on their accomplishments and outline the path forward. These sample farewell speeches have set the stage for a peaceful transfer of power and reaffirmed the strength and resilience of American democracy.

Adam Howarth

Adam covers the topic of Public Speaking for Digital Authority. From his first experience of oratory with his school debating society to his more recent experiences of promoting the local business scene in Wrexham, Wales, he has always been involved in public speaking.

Recent Posts

Active Listening Absorbs The Whole Message, Not Just The Words

Active listening goes beyond hearing the words someone is saying to you and understanding the message they are conveying. Many only hear a small percentage of what is being said as they are...

Counteracting Fear Of Public Speaking With Coaching And Therapy

Nearly 75% of people experience the social phobia of fear of public speaking. The result may be nervousness before speaking or a full-blown panic attack. Practicing public speaking may lessen the...

Farewell Speech Writing 101: Tips and Inspiring Examples

• October 26, 2023

Yes, a farewell speech is the best chance for us to put goodbye into words! By presenting a great farewell speech, you express emotions and leave lasting impressions on your workmates, buddies, or graduates. Besides, they’re not just words. They’re a profound way to show respect for the time you’ve spent together and look forward to what’s coming next.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about what a farewell speech is, how to write it with honesty and style, and some examples that will help you do it well. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What is a farewell speech.

A farewell speech is a special talk you give to say a warm goodbye to someone or even to a particular time or event. It’s a way to say thanks, remember good times, and wish everyone well as you go your separate ways. Whether you’re leaving a job, parting with friends, or finishing school, a farewell speech lets you think back on the journey and recognize what you’ve been through.

A good farewell speech usually has a few important parts: saying thanks, recognizing achievements and how you’ve grown, sharing memorable moments, and giving positive wishes for the future. It’s a chance to leave a nice, long-lasting memory and express your feelings honestly and kindly.

How To Write A Farewell Speech?

Writing a farewell speech can be simple and meaningful with these steps:

1/ Start with a Greeting:

Begin your speech with a warm greeting to the audience. Keep it friendly and welcoming.

2/ Express Gratitude:

Thank the audience for being there and acknowledging the occasion. Show appreciation for their presence and support throughout your journey.

3/ Reflect on the Journey:

Reflect on the experiences and moments you’ve shared together. Discuss the achievements, challenges, and growth you’ve witnessed during your time together.

4/ Share Personal Stories:

Share personal stories or anecdotes that highlight the positive and memorable moments. Keep it light-hearted and engaging.

5/ Acknowledge People:

Acknowledge and appreciate the individuals who have made an impact on your journey. Mention colleagues, friends, mentors, or anyone who has been influential.

6/ Offer Best Wishes:

Extend heartfelt best wishes for the future, both for yourself and for the people you’re parting with. Encourage everyone to chase their dreams and embrace new opportunities.

7/ End with a Positive Note:

Conclude your speech with a positive and optimistic note, emphasizing hope and excitement for the future. Reiterate gratitude and express confidence in the road ahead.

8/ Practice and Rehearse:

Practice delivering your speech to ensure a smooth flow and to manage any nervousness. Rehearse in front of a mirror or with a friend to build confidence.

9/ Keep it Concise:

Aim for a brief and focused speech. Avoid making it too lengthy to maintain interest and impact.

Let your genuine emotions and thoughts guide your speech. Speak sincerely, and your authenticity will resonate with the audience.

Farewell Speech Examples

Here are examples of farewell speeches for different scenarios:

Farewell speech to coworkers

Dear colleagues,

I stand before you today with mixed emotions as I bid farewell to this incredible team. Working with all of you has been a true privilege. The memories we’ve created and the projects we’ve accomplished together will forever hold a special place in my heart.

I’ve learned so much from each one of you, and I appreciate the camaraderie, support, and guidance I’ve received throughout my time here. Your dedication and hard work have made this workplace a remarkable and vibrant environment.

As I move forward to new opportunities, I carry with me the invaluable experiences and lessons I’ve gained during my time here. I’m confident that our paths will cross again, and I look forward to staying connected.

Thank you for being amazing colleagues and friends. I wish all of you continued success and fulfillment in your endeavors. Goodbye, and until we meet again.

Farewell speech about colleague

Dear students,

Today is a bittersweet moment as we bid farewell to this wonderful group of young minds. Your time here has been filled with growth, learning, and countless memories that have enriched us all.

I’ve watched you overcome challenges, achieve remarkable feats, and build lasting friendships. Each one of you holds immense potential, and I’m excited to see the incredible paths you will carve for yourselves.

As you step into the world beyond these walls, remember the lessons you’ve learned and the bonds you’ve formed. Stay true to your dreams and aspirations, and never underestimate the impact you can make.

Farewell, dear students, and may you conquer the world with your brilliance.

Farewell speech for students

• 400+ Creative Farewell Party Titles
• Top 40 Farewell Gifts To Make Goodbyes Special

Farewell speech for teacher

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

Today, we gather to express our heartfelt gratitude and bid farewell to an exceptional educator and mentor, [Teacher’s Name]. Your dedication and passion for teaching have left an indelible mark on us.

You have not only imparted knowledge but also instilled values, encouraged critical thinking, and nurtured a love for learning within us. Your guidance and support have shaped our academic and personal lives in profound ways.

As you embark on a new journey, know that your influence will always remain with us. We thank you for being an inspirational teacher and a caring mentor. Farewell, and may your future be filled with continued success and fulfillment.

Final Thoughts

A farewell speech is a heartfelt way to bid adieu, expressing gratitude and fond memories. To make your farewell party even more special, consider using AhaSlides – a tool that can add a touch of fun and engagement to the event. Using this tool in your  event management , you can create interactive and memorable experiences to remember.

More tips and advice about events? Pick an event that you’re concerned with, and we’ll give you a helping hand!

What do you say in a farewell speech?

In a farewell speech, express gratitude for the journey shared, acknowledge the support and friendships, reminisce about memorable moments, and offer well-wishes for the future. Keep it genuine and heartfelt.

What is the best farewell speech?

The best farewell speech is one that’s sincere, appreciative, and personal. It reflects on the positive experiences, growth, and relationships built. It leaves a lasting impact by making everyone feel valued and inspired for the future.

What do you say on your last day of work?

You can say thank you to your colleagues and the organization for the opportunities and experiences. Express your appreciation for the learning and growth, and let them know you’ll cherish the memories. Offer your contact details to stay in touch and wish everyone success and happiness in the future. Keep it friendly and positive.

# Farewell Party

14 Must-Try Employee Team-Building Ideas For Every Office

21 Group Bonding Games That Will Transform Your Team

14 Breathtaking Dresses For A Summer Wedding As A Guest

Top 20 Men’s Wedding Wear In Summer 2024

Send us a message.

• Event Management
• Event Plan Examples
• Event Management Tools
• Virtual Team Building Activities
• Type Of Events

Event Budgeting

• Event Budget
• Time Management

Wedding Planning

• Wedding Planning Checklist
• Wedding Decoration Ideas
• Wedding Gifts
• Wedding Dress Code
• Presentation Skills
• Fear of Public Speaking
• How to make effective presentations?
• Farewell Speech

Party Games

• The Life of The Party
• Christmas Party Games
• Christmas Party Games For Large Groups
• Wedding Shoe Games

Thanks for dropping by! Let us guide you through everything about how to organise an event, come up with creative ideas and find the perfect activities & games for any occasion. Let's create memorable moments together!

Quick Links

Follow us on.

Want to receive more tips on how to transform nervous jitters into standing ovations in your presentation, or what is a good farewell gift for a guy?

© Pickanevent.com. All Rights Reserved 2023

• Learn English
• Infographics

• Business English
• English Writing

Farewell Speech Example to a Colleague Who is Leaving

“Today is a very sad day for us in the office as we have to say goodbye to our wonderful coworker. He/she has worked with us for a long time and has never let us down. He/she has always been extremely professional, hard-working and a team player. He/she has a brilliant mind and always brought creative new ideas to the team.

He/she has not only been a fantastic colleague, he/she has also been a true friend. He/she always took the time to ask how his/her fellow colleagues were, always had time to listen and talk to anybody with a problem and was great fun in the office. He/she was always full of energy and happy to see everyone on Monday mornings.

He/she is a great loss to our company but we were lucky to have the opportunity to work with him/her. We all wish you the very best in the future. I know that whatever the future holds, he/she will excel and continue to be successful.

We will miss you but this isn’t goodbye as we know you will keep in touch and we will see you sooner rather than later. Thank you for everything you have given to the company.”

If you want to make this speech more effective, you could include a funny or memorable story or a time your colleague excelled at work. I would also use their name whenever you can so it is more personal.

I hope this helps.

Recommended for you: How to Write Email for Senior Management? List of Sentence Connectors in English with Examples! 7 Simple Examples of Business Email Writing in English Formal and Informal Email Phrases Starting with Greetings Essential Academic Writing Examples and Phrases!

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Summary of how Components of Health are related to Wellness

What happens when You Run out of Oxygen? Consequences of Oxygen Deprivation

What is the differences between Cattle and Livestock?

Explore the Variety of Ecosystems on Earth

Get Marble in LEGO Fortnite – Quick Guide!

Which Water Source May Become Polluted as It Travels Over Land?

MOST POPULAR

👉 A BIG List of Prefixes and Suffixes and Their Meanings

200 Phrases for saying THANK YOU in any situation!

Formal and Informal Email Phrases – from Greetings to Closing Phrases!

Linking Words: List of Sentence Connectors in English with Examples!

80 In Conclusion Examples! + Translation

90 Names of Baby Animals and Their Parents

Talk to Strangers / Free Chat Rooms

English Level Test

6 Ways to Immediately Improve Your English Communication Skills

50 Creative Ways to Say Happy Birthday: My Top Picks

What does TBH mean? (TBH full form) on Facebook, Instagram, Texting

25 Ways to Say “Keep Up The Good Work” 💪 &...

Stay connected, editor picks.

Supposition Meaning

Understanding the Extroverted Introvert

Popular posts, popular category.

• Q&A 2439
• English Vocabulary 624
• English Vocabulary Dictionary 363
• English Grammar 200
• Synonyms 147
• Infographics 109
• Collocations 105
• Learn English 81
• English Idioms 69
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

How to say farewell to a colleague: 35 ways to say goodbye

Jump to section

Cultivating work relationships

Why is it important to say goodbye.

35 messages to say farewell to a colleague

What’s the best way to say farewell to a colleague?

For the future: Tips to consider when saying goodbye

Send them off on the right note

Finding the right words to say farewell to a colleague is never easy. You want to express your respect , sense of loss, and well-wishes all at once. 

Even if you weren’t close, saying goodbye to a colleague who is leaving and wishing them well on their new journey is a touching gesture that they’re sure to appreciate. 

Starting a new chapter in your professional life is exciting and scary, and your words can fill them with the self-confidence they need to march into their new adventure. 

Anyone can say goodbye, but few know how to deliver a carefully crafted farewell message that helps a valued colleague embrace their next opportunity. Here’s how to send your colleague off with integrity and care, whether they were your work bestie or a new coworker who you haven’t worked with closely.

Nothing makes saying goodbye to a departing coworker you’ve come to appreciate, or who has even become a great friend, any easier. You spend countless hours building good working relationships and teamwork skills, and then that person leaves. 

Even if your colleague’s next job is a dream come true and you’re excited for them, it’s normal to feel a little down when you’re losing a friend at work . But it’s a good habit and a compassionate move to say your goodbyes and put some thought into your message. 

Goodbye messages are a part of any work (or life) experience, and sending one is the perfect opportunity to wish your favorite coworker — or even the one who can be difficult to work with — your best as they embark on a new opportunity.

Everyone wants to feel appreciated and like they left a mark on a workplace before navigating the offboarding process and moving on to a new role . 

Aside from the importance of maintaining professional relationships , writing a coworker farewell letter gives a sense of closure, both to you and the colleague leaving. It’s here that you get the chance to express gratitude for everything this person has accomplished. This is your final opportunity to show how grateful you are for what they brought to the team — or to you personally. 

Studies have shown that a proper goodbye can be a motivator for continued success.  People who get a proper sendoff from their colleagues have an easier, more positive transition into their next position. Saying goodbye to friends at work , as it turns out, is actually one of the best things you can do to help them start a new job on the right foot. And you owe it to your colleagues to set them up for a bright future.

If you didn’t get a chance to give your colleague a proper goodbye on their last day, it’s not too late. Consider sending a message to their personal email address. It’ll brighten their day as they onboard into a new job .

35 messages to say farewell to a colleague 

When pondering how to say goodbye to coworkers, you don’t need to get too creative. These situations are all about expressing your feelings and wishing someone well, not showy gestures that overwhelm your colleague. Brevity can be more impactful in emotional situations. 

If you’re stuck, here are 35 example messages you can tweak for your departing coworker:

• "I'm going to miss seeing you around the office. I wish you all the best with your new company and future endeavors!"
• "Good luck with your new job! You were always such a great team member to have around and work with. I'll miss your positive attitude and funny stories."
• "Thank you for being such an important part of our team these past few years. We couldn't have accomplished what we did without you!"
• "Your new job is lucky to have such a hard worker like yourself. Your problem-solving skills taught me a lot about the industry and inspired me to improve my own. We will miss you!"
• "Great leaders like yourself impact their workplace, and it's obvious that you’ve touched a lot of people. Thank you for your dedication and hard work."
• "I'll never forget how patient and understanding you were with me when I first started working here. I appreciate your kindness throughout the years and your dedication to employee wellness . We will miss you!"
• "Working with a team member like you was so eye-opening — I learned a ton. Good luck with your new position. I know you'll teach them many important things like you did here!"
• "I'll always think of you when we have problems with Zoom because you were always the person to call for tech help! Thank you for being a wonderful presence. I wish you good luck moving forward."
• "Great team members like yourself make working the overnight shift easier! Thanks for all your help."
• "I'll miss you when I take my lunch breaks. You always knew how to cheer me up and keep morale high."
• "You've been an incredible mentor to me this last year, and I'll always appreciate the time you took to help me understand things and grow. I'll miss you."
• "Being desk buddies with you has taught me a lot! I'm grateful for your strong work ethic and inspiration. Thank you for all the great times."
• "Keep up all the awesome work at your new job! I know you'll continue to motivate others to reach their goals and be a positive role model. We’ll miss your kindness."
• "Your fearless leadership guided us through challenging moments, and you always ensured everyone was practicing self-care in and out of work. Thank you, and I'll miss you dearly."
• “It’s hard to say goodbye to a colleague who has become such an essential part of our team. I hope your new coworkers know how lucky they are to have you. We will miss you!”
• “Wishing you all the best in your new adventure. Thank you for being such an incredible colleague and friend.”
• “I will miss your infectious energy and can-do attitude. It has been great working side-by-side with you these last few years. Thank you for everything.”
• “I know you’re going to nail this new chapter of your life. You deserve all the best! Thank you for your hard work and always being there for the team.”
• “You’ve been a great friend and confidante. We will all miss you and your incredible presence.”
• “Though we haven’t always seen eye-to-eye, I always appreciated your commitment to teamwork. Good luck in your new job.”
• “It’s difficult to express how much the team will miss you. Thank you for always bringing your A-game!” 
• “I’m so excited about this new opportunity. You’ve earned it! Thank you for being such an inspiration, and good luck on your next adventure.”
•  “I hope you know you’ve left an incredible impact on our team that we’ll feel long after you leave. Thank you for your hard work, thoughtfulness, and kindness.”
• “Saying goodbye feels like losing a member of the family. It’s been an honor to work alongside you and learn from your work ethic, generosity, and passion. I know you’ll do great on your new journey.”
• “You’re truly a special person. Your support and encouragement helped me in ways that I can’t express in words. Thank you for everything.”
• “I wish we had more opportunities to work together. Best of luck with your new company!”
•  “Sharing a cubicle with you made every day worthwhile! Thanks for always putting a smile on my face. We will miss you.” 
• “Working with such a great leader has changed the way I look at my job. Thank you for illuminating the path. Good luck with this new opportunity.”
• “You’ve been the best colleague and friend I could’ve ever asked for. I will always appreciate the kindness and generosity you showed me.”

How to say farewell to a colleague you weren’t close to

Just because you weren’t friends, or even acquaintances, with a colleague doesn’t mean you can’t bid them farewell. Here are some ways to address a coworker you didn’t know well:

30. “Although we weren’t able to work together as much as I’d liked to, I appreciate our time together. Best wishes in all your future endeavors.”

31. “While we didn’t get the chance to work together closely, I hope that this new opportunity is everything that you’re looking for. Best of luck!”

32.  “Thank you for being such a great leader. Your dedication to everyone’s success has been such an inspiration.”

33. "Take care of yourself. I can't wait to see what you do in the next chapter of your career! All the best."

34. “I hope your new promotion is everything you want and more! You deserve the best.”

35. “ Kudos on the new position! You’re going to do amazing.”

What is the best way to say farewell to a colleague?

People like to know hard work is appreciated. Whether delivering on a team project, displaying strong leadership skills, or going above and beyond on a specific task, these are things you should acknowledge. When thinking throug h what to say when someone leaves a job, recognizing what they’ve accomplished or how they’ve inspired you is a safe place to start.

Finding the best way to express your goodbye might seem overwhelming , but it doesn't have to be. Here are four ways to extend your farewell message that are both professional and moving:

1. Send a card or gift

A simple farewell card or gift says a lot. You have the opportunity to write a farewell note of your own or have other colleagues join in. It's also a nice keepsake for the coworker leaving. They can take it with them wherever they go next, and it'll remind them of their time at your company. A card or farewell gift is handy for colleagues who you might not know very well. It doesn't have to be ultra-personalized, but it still sends a message of gratitude — especially if your whole team contributes.

2. Say it in person

You want to say goodbye in person if the colleague is someone special to you. Sharing a farewell message to a colleague in private often reflects your relationship: it's personal. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and share how you feel about them leaving, but avoid making the conversation about you. This could be a difficult time for them. Don’t let your feelings overwhelm the exchange.

3. Throw a farewell party

Put together some decorations and order a cake or other treat. Get your colleagues together to laugh and reflect on this person’s time with the company. Unwind. Relax. And above all else, enjoy your time together. It’s these moments you’ll miss most when they’re gone.

4. Send an email or message

Remote work environments require you to get creative. Maybe you can't come together in person, but you can still wish your colleague the best. A farewell email or Slack message is a solid alternative to meeting face-to-face, but you can also arrange a video call if you’re close. You can also fire off a personal email. There’s nothing wrong with dropping a few paragraphs in someone’s inbox detailing what you enjoyed about your time together and what you’ll miss when they’re gone. It’s also a great way to exchange contact information to keep in touch.

For the future: tips to consider when saying goodbye

Saying farewell isn’t always easy. Colleagues often make meaningful contributions to your life , even if you’ve only known them for a short time. These are the people outside your immediate family or roommates that you spend the most time with, after all.

When wishing a colleague farewell, here are a few final considerations:

• Keep your message personalized, positive, and uplifting
• Exchange contact information, like phone numbers or LinkedIn profiles , to keep in touch
• Don't craft a message that’s too long or off-topic
• Don't be afraid to be vulnerable

On the flipside, if you’re the one leaving your current role or retiring, there are different tips for writing a strong goodbye email to coworkers on your last day. 

Regardless of what you say or how you say it, your soon-to-be former coworker will appreciate you taking the time to reach out on their last day. You’ll express your best wishes and give them the confidence they need to perform well in their next chapter, whether that’s taking time off or starting a new position. So don’t be shy — say farewell to your colleague.

Turn farewells into new beginnings

BetterUp is here to guide you from one chapter to the next. Embrace your new beginning with personalized coaching.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

Make the connection: 10 effective ways to connect with people

Writing thank-you notes to coworkers (+ 43 examples), why it's good to have a bff at work and how to find one, mentor-mentee relationships are beyond powerful, here’s why, learn how to introduce yourself in conversation and in writing, 20 best wedding wishes for coworkers and colleagues with examples, eye contact is important (crucial really) in communication, the power of politeness: 10 ways to deal with rude people, what to get coaching on here’s what managers are saying, similar articles, show you care and learn how to congratulate someone on a promotion, how to say no to others (and why you shouldn’t feel guilty), how to follow up on a job application the right way, exit interview: what to expect and what to say (7 tips), how to write an unforgettable goodbye email to coworkers, congratulations on your new job: 40 ways to tell your colleagues, how to end an email and leave a fantastic impression, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care™
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Life Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

• Condolences & What To Say

55+ Ways to Say Goodbye to Coworkers When You Retire

Updated 12/28/2023

Published 03/9/2020

Belinda McLeod, BA in Secondary Education

Contributing writer

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Are you closer and closer to checking off items from your retirement bucket list ? Congratulations! 

Our Top Gift Picks

• Premium Pastel Set of Succulents ($76.29)
• Dan the Sausageman's Gourmet Gift Box ($64.95)

Jump ahead to these sections:

Funny ways to say goodbye to coworkers, ways to say goodbye to your boss when you retire, heartfelt ways to say goodbye to coworkers, email messages to send on your last day.

• Short Goodbye Messages for Retirement
• Professional or Formal Goodbye Messages for Retirement

How to Say Goodbye to a Coworker When They Retire

You may be expected to say a few words to your fellow staff members as you embark on your retirement. Maybe you’ve been writing your speech in your head for years, or maybe you have no idea of what to say. Regardless of whether you have a few talking points or not, here are some snippets from goodbye speeches that may inspire you to write your own.

Don’t forget to use your own words when you say goodbye to your coworkers. It’s always better to speak from the heart instead of sounding polished and unemotional.

Tip: Pair your goodbye with small tokens of appreciation for everyone in the office. We like sets of succulents to give out . If it doesn't make sense to buy gifts for each person, try putting out a big snack basket, like this one , on the day of your departure.

You may have quite a few inside jokes if you’ve spent years interacting with your coworkers. This is especially true if you deal with the general public or if a colorful bunch of characters works in your office. 

One of the best ways to say goodbye is to refer to funny things that have happened in the office over the years. Here are some general examples. 

“One of the saddest things about retiring before tax season begins is that I will no longer be able to work with dear Mrs. Jones. Someone else will have to break it to her that she can’t claim her 14 cats as dependents.”

“Before I tell you about what I will miss about working in this office, let me tell you the things I will gladly leave behind: TPS reports, audits, the jammed printer, the slow elevator, and bad coffee.”

“Whenever I need a laugh, I’ll just think back about all the practical jokes Jim always played on Dwight. Putting Dwight’s stapler in Jello was such a fantastic practical joke. It almost makes me sad to retire, knowing that I will miss the next laugh.”

“I’m not sure if my wife is looking forward to my retirement or not. She read me this quote the other day: ‘When a man retires, his wife gets twice as much husband for half as much money.’ And she didn’t laugh when she read it to me.”

“Please don’t feel that even though I’m retiring, I’m leaving you in a lurch. I know that questions may come up after I go. Feel free to get a hold of me. Just call all the beaches in Mexico and ask to talk with the lady with the daiquiri in her hand.”

Saying farewell to your boss may be difficult, especially if you have had a long professional relationship with the person. Here are some things to say to your boss as you launch your retirement.

“You’ve been the best boss ever. Thank you for all the support you showed me throughout the years. You always encouraged me to learn new skills and grow in the field, whether the business would benefit or not.”

“I remember when you hired me. You asked me how long I planned to stay at this job, and I told you I hoped to retire here. Who would have thought that day would come so quickly? Time flies. Thank you for supporting me for all these years.”

“Even though we didn’t always see eye-to-eye, I always respected you as a leader. You are kind, respectful, and generous. Thank you so much.”

“It’s been an honor and a privilege to work with you for the last 23 years. I think of you not only as a boss but a friend as well.”

“When you love what you do, work doesn’t feel like work. Thank you for making me happy to show up in this office every day for the last two decades.”

“Thank you for gently correcting me every time I made a mistake and moving on like it never happened. It takes a person with real class to interact with employees this way.”

“I feel like Dorothy when she said goodbye to the scarecrow. ‘I think I’ll miss you most of all.’ Thank you for being a great leader.”

It’s incredible how quickly you become close to your coworkers, especially if you work in a hospital, school, or another highly emotive environment. Saying goodbye may be painful. Here are some ways to do it.

“You are the sisters and brothers I never had. Thank you all for making Smith and Jones a great place to work.”

“My family doesn’t understand why I’m so sad to retire. They don’t understand how much I will miss you all.”

“Confucius said, ‘Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.’ Who knew I would have so much in common with an ancient Chinese philosopher?”

“Jack Kemp once said, ‘There is a kind of victory in good work, no matter how humble.’ Even though we aren’t working to cure cancer, I am proud of the excellent work we have accomplished together. Our work has improved the lives of others, and I am proud of it.” 

“It’s incredible how a group of people from such diverse backgrounds worked so closely and well together. We complement each other, and that is something special.”

“I’ve never worked with such a special group of people. Thank you for the last 20 years. I love you all, and I will miss you.”

“It’s not often when a group of coworkers can brighten a person’s life. I have treasured our time together.”

Depending upon your workplace, there may not be an opportunity to give a speech at the end of your last day. You may have to settle for sending out an email message to your boss and coworkers. Here are some snippets of text you may consider using for your special message.

Play some goodbye songs , fire up your laptop, and write your goodbyes. You may surprise yourself and shed a tear or two.

“Please excuse me for not saying goodbye in person. I’m feeling really sad and just can’t! You have made this a lovely place to be every day, and I will miss the office terribly — best wishes to you all.”

“Today is my last day at Blythe and Anders. I’ve been counting down the days to my retirement so I can start traveling the world but I’m also really sad. I will miss seeing all your smiling faces, and I wish I could smuggle you all in my luggage.”

“My life won’t be the same starting on Monday morning. It will be a hard transition. In fact, I’m sure you all will be the first people that I think about  — after I wake up at 10 a.m.”

“You all know how much I love Winnie the Pooh . The creator, A.A. Milne, once said, ‘How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” I am one of the luckiest women in the world.”

“As much as I am sad to leave you, I am excited to be able to spend more time with my grandkids and kids. After a few weeks of me being around, they may ask me to come back to work to volunteer.”

“William James once said, ‘The greatest use of a life is to spend it on something that will outlast it.’ I feel that we have done excellent work in this firm, and we have helped others live their best lives. I’m proud of what we have accomplished together, and I want to thank you all for letting me be a part of your team.”

“I’d love to continue being a part of your lives. Let’s get together for a monthly lunch. My personal cell phone number is xxx-xxx-xxxx.”

Short Goodbye Messages for Retirement 

You don’t have to give a long, drawn-out Shakespearean soliloquy as you say goodbye to your coworkers. In fact, they would probably prefer that you keep it short, so they could get down to the business of eating cake and drinking champagne at your retirement party.

Here are some short but sweet goodbye messages to use for your retirement.

“I know that our job is sometimes not easy. I know the countless extra hours you put in to do it well. I also know how discouraging our jobs can be at times. But I want to offer these words of encouragement: You are doing good work. You make a difference in the world.”

“I would like to borrow the words of Lou Gehrig, one of my personal heroes. ‘Today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.’ Not because I am ending my career with Wilson and Wilson, but because I had the opportunity to work with the best group of lawyers and staff for the last 30 years.”

“In the words of the great Oscar Hammerstein, ‘So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, good night! I hate to go and leave this pretty sight!’”

“Instead of saying goodbye, I would prefer to say, ‘See you later.’ I’m not dying, after all. I’ll just be playing a lot more golf.”

“If you need me, I’ll be on the beach!”

“I would like to give a special shout-out to my team. Thank you for making me look good for all of these years. You guys are such an amazing team that our clients won’t even realize that I’m gone.”

“I don’t have any words of wisdom or profound thoughts to offer as I look back over my career. Instead, I would like to sincerely thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for being such a great team of coworkers. I never once dreaded Monday mornings – and that says a lot about the place you work.”

“I would like to thank my family for supporting me in my career for all of these years. They have sacrificed a lot, so that I could build this company into what it is today. Now, I am dedicating what’s left of my life to them.”

“It’s hard to believe that 45 years have passed since Mr. Halloway took a chance on me, a young kid without any work experience. He told me that he ‘liked my spark.’ Remember that the next time you need to hire someone for your team.”

Professional or Formal Goodbye Messages for Retirement 

Do you need to announce your retirement in writing? Perhaps you need to send a message to HR, your bosses, or the board of directors. Here are some snippets of formal goodbye messages.

“I am writing to share that I will be retiring from Sprint effective April 1, 20XX. I am grateful to the corporation for providing me with a rewarding, challenging career.”

“As you may have already heard, my husband’s job is taking him to England. Because of this move, I wish to announce my early retirement from the company.”

“Please accept this as formal notice of my retirement, effective April 1, 20XX. As you know, I have had many health struggles lately, and I wish to spend more time with my family.”

“It’s harder than you would think for me to write this email. However, I would like to announce my retirement from Wilson and Wilson, effective April 1, 20XX.”

“I appreciate all the support and encouragement I have received from the leadership team over the last 18 years. I would especially like to thank Ryan Smith for hiring me back in 2001. I had little experience in the industry, but he decided to take a chance on me. I am forever grateful.”

“Even though I hope to schedule my last day early this spring, I am happy to stay until a new executive assistant can be hired and trained. I would be happy to help you all with this process.”

“Even though I will miss all my friends at Wilson and Wilson, I look forward to caring for my newest grandson, Tyler.”

“After 40 years of teaching Junior English, I have decided that it is time to retire from Smith High School. I say goodbye with a mixture of excitement and melancholy. Even though I won’t miss grading stacks of essays and research papers every night, I will miss forming meaningful relationships with my students and colleagues.”

“I want to thank the leadership team for their support and encouragement through the years – especially when I was undergoing cancer treatment.”

“I am excited to begin the next phase of my life. However, I will remember fondly the years I spent at Wilson and Wilson.” 

“Thank you for encouraging me to get additional cybersecurity training. I feel good that I am leaving the company well-protected against cyber attacks. However, it’s important to stay vigilant!”

Perhaps you are saying goodbye to a retiring coworker. Here are some snippets to inspire you as you write in a retirement card.

“You will be missed.”

“I can’t imagine Wilson and Wilson without you! You have been a fixture here for the last 35 years, and you will be difficult to replace.”

“Please pass on your chili recipe to someone in the office. The promise of your chili each Friday was the only thing that helped me get through tax season.”

“It’s impossible to summarize your professional achievements over the last 30 years. So let’s just say this: You have contributed a great deal to our company and our entire industry. It’s not just our office that is sad to see you go. Other firms across the country will miss your innovation and leadership.”

“Even though we are sad to see you go, we understand why it is necessary. Please know that you will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers as you care for your wife.”

“On behalf of the entire staff, I would like to wish you a happy retirement. You have been a faithful, hard-working employee. So even though we are sorry to see you go, we are delighted for your new phase of life.”

“Our organization has become stronger due to Jeff’s commitment to our mission, values, and work. We appreciate all his contributions, and he has touched the hearts of many in the office. Please join us as we honor Jeff’s career at Wilson and Wilson by attending a retirement party on Saturday, May 1, at the Hilton Ballroom.”

“I’m not sure how long I would have lasted here if it wasn’t for you. Thank you for spending time with me when I first arrived. You helped me get through a lot of rough spots. For that, I will be eternally grateful.”

“I’ll never forget that presentation you made to Wilson and Wilson. You are the reason our company is in such a healthy position today.”

“Enjoy sleeping in, going to afternoon baseball games, and spending time on the golf course. You deserve it!”

“We are lucky to have had your leadership over the last several years. Thank you for your constant reassurance and positive attitude.”

“You have been the face and voice of our company for so long that it is hard to imagine someone else sitting at your desk and answering our phone. It’s not just our team that will be lost without you. Our customers will miss you as well.”

Saying Goodbye

It’s common to feel sad after retirement. Work was probably a big part of your life. You may feel as if something is missing when you quit. Learn how to combat these feelings by reading books on aging .   

Take care of a few pieces of business before you become too comfortable with your retirement schedule. First, set up your will and/or trust. Second, start your end-of-life planning. Finally, figure out how you want to serve others so that you can feel like you’re still making a difference during your retirement years.

Post-loss tip: Sometimes goodbyes are even more difficult, as when, when you have to let go of a dying loved one. If you are the executor for a deceased loved one, the emotional and technical aspects of handling their unfinished business can be overwhelming without a way to organize your process. We have a post-loss checklist  that will help you ensure that your loved one's family, estate, and other affairs are taken care of.

Categories:

• Relationships

You may also like

How to Write a Sympathy Letter for Loss of a Mother

7 Sample Letters to Deceased Loved Ones

How to Write a Gratitude Letter + Examples

How to Write a Condolence Letter with 12 Examples