Be gracious. Even if you’re sad they’re leaving, a warm message is the right note — careers are long and paths cross again.
How to write it
- Congratulate first, miss them second.
- Mention the new company or role if it’s public.
- Offer to stay in touch.
Gracious congratulations
Congratulations on the new job! They’re lucky to have you.
So happy for you — this is a brilliant next step.
Congratulations! Sad to lose you, thrilled for you.
What a great opportunity. You’ve earned it.
Congratulations on the new role! Can’t wait to hear how it goes.
Warm and personal
Congratulations! The new team has no idea what a gift they’re getting.
I’ll miss our lunches, but I’m so excited for you. Let’s keep them going.
Your new company just got smarter. Congratulations!
Congratulations — the door is always open if you ever want to come back.
Funny new-job messages
Congratulations! Please send us a list of their snacks for comparison.
New job, new email signature. Congrats!
Congratulations on escaping! Take us with you.
Congrats! Remember to learn the coffee machine before anything else.
Congratulations! May your new onboarding be shorter than ours.
Short messages
Congrats on the new job!
Go get ’em!
So happy for you!
Onwards and upwards!
What to avoid
- Asking about salary.
- Badmouthing the new company or the current one.
Organising the whole card? Our good luck card guide covers timing and who to invite. For more ideas, read Congratulations Messages for a Coworker: Promotion & New Job.