Write a memorable, impressive retirement note for your boss
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If your boss is retiring, you might be wondering how to wish him a happy retirement the right way – and we can help! Writing a retirement message for your boss isn’t that difficult if you know what you want to say, from wishing them well to thanking them for all their hard work and even cracking a joke (if that’s something your boss would enjoy). Read the comprehensive guide to writing a message for a retired boss, complete with an extensive collection of sample messages and more.
Think about your boss and the type of message he might appreciate. Before you write a message, think about the time you spent working with your boss. Did they have any qualities that stood out to you or interactions with you that always stood out to you? Thinking about your boss and what you know about him can help you figure out what kind of message to write.[6]
- For example, is your boss the type who may appreciate humor or prefer honesty? Are they adventurous or would they rather use retirement to relax?
- Then think about what you want to say with your message. Are you grateful for their guidance? Do you want to express your admiration for them? Or do you just want to wish them well?
Choose a tone and writing style for your message. Make sure it’s appropriate based on your relationship with your boss. Is your relationship more formal or casual? Did you joke around together or did you keep things serious? Choose a tone that works for you based on how you communicate with your boss – and when in doubt, aim for a warm but professional message.[7]
- For example, humor can be a great addition to your message if your boss is always telling jokes and finding ways to lighten the atmosphere at work.
- In contrast, if your boss always took things seriously and acted with complete professionalism, you might opt for a more formal tone instead.
Congratulate your boss on reaching this milestone. Your boss has had a long and successful career, and now they are ready to start a new phase of their life. That is worthy of recognition! Applaud them for their efforts and a job well done. Express gratitude for their efforts as a boss and all they have done for you personally.[8]
Share a memory or lesson you learned from them. Personalize your message by immersing yourself in your experiences with your boss. Do you have any memory of them that left a lasting impression on you? Did they teach you any valuable lessons that you have used to excel in your career? Show your boss that they’ve made a significant difference in your life (and other employees’) during their career.[9]
Wish your boss well in the future. Since you won’t be seeing your boss at work anymore, sending him off with your best wishes makes sense! End your retirement message by telling them how happy you are for them—and wishing them luck.
- If you want to stay in touch, you can also include your contact information (such as a phone number or email) at the end of the note.[10]
Draft your message and proofread it if necessary. Drafting a message can help you plan everything before you write down the final version (in a greeting card, email, or whatever way you plan to give your boss). Use your outline to come up with the structure of your message (starting with a greeting, then greetings, and anything else you want to include). Write the entire note or letter when you are satisfied with your draft.
- Be sure to proofread your draft (and make any necessary changes) before sending it to your boss, just to make sure there are no mistakes or awkward phrasing.
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Source: HIS Education