The strongest mentor farewells are specific about what changed: the advice you still repeat, the habit you picked up, the decision you made because of a conversation with them.
How to write it
- Quote the piece of advice you remember most — mentors love hearing their words come back.
- Mention where you are now compared to when you started working with them.
- Ask if you can stay in touch as a mentee. Many mentors are glad to continue.
Heartfelt thank-yous to a mentor
You once told me to “write the email you’d want to receive.” I think about it every day. Thank you for that and so much more.
When I started, I didn’t know what I didn’t know. You spent hours showing me, and never once made me feel small.
My career looks the way it does because you took an interest in it. I’m very grateful.
Thank you for the advice, the honesty, and the time you never had but always made.
You taught me how to disagree well. It’s the most useful thing I’ve learned at work.
Short messages for a mentor’s card
Thank you for believing in me early.
Your advice will travel with me. Thank you.
I’m a better colleague because of you.
Thank you for every coffee chat that turned into a masterclass.
Please keep mentoring — the world needs more of it.
For a mentor who’s also a friend
Thank you for being my sounding board, my critic, and my cheerleader. Lunch next month — I’m holding you to it.
You’ve been a mentor and a friend. Leaving doesn’t change the second part.
I’ll miss our Friday walks and your terrible analogies. They worked, though.
Thank you for picking up the phone every time I was about to make a bad decision.
Formal messages
Thank you for your guidance and generosity throughout my time on the team. I wish you continued success.
Your mentorship has made a lasting difference to my career. With sincere thanks and best wishes.
It has been a privilege to learn from you. I hope we stay in touch.
Thank you for your patience, insight, and encouragement. Best of luck in your next role.
What to avoid
- Making the message about your worries now they’re leaving.
- Being so formal it sounds like a reference letter.
Organising the whole card? Our farewell card guide covers timing and who to invite.