Knowing how to write a retirement card is a useful skill. After all, retirement is something that most people look forward to throughout their working life.
That moment that finally gives them permission to kick back, relax and start enjoying life without the stress of work hanging around neck.
So it’s important to mark such an occasion and a retirement card is the perfect opportunity to express gratitude for all the hard work that they’ve put in to the company and to offer best wishes for the future.
Retiring can be a daunting prospect. No longer having to set your alarm and have a specific structure to your day can be a mighty change. So your card needs to reflect that change and make sure that the thought of retirement is a positive experience.
With that in mind, here are some tips on how to write retirement card to a colleague.
Say Thank You!
As I have already mentioned, this is the perfect time to show your appreciation of their contribution to the workplace. Mention a specific action that they’ve taken that made such a difference, whether it’s to say “Thank you for always being the first to make newcomers so welcome” or “Your kindness and professionalism have made a big difference to how this company has been perceived over the years”. Whatever it is, home in on it because it will give them a sense of pride and meaning for what they have done.
By taking time to share how you’ve valued the work your colleague has done will help make sure they leave feeling satisfied about the difference they’ve made in your workplace.
Say They’ll Be Missed
Make sure to really put across how much their presence will be missed in your company. Not just because of the job they do, but also because of their personality. It’s nice to feel as though you’re going to be missed and that you’ve brought something to a company other than your work skills.
Tell Them That They Should Keep In Touch
Don’t let them walk out of the door feeling as though they’ll never see or hear from any of you again. Retirement can sometimes be a lonely time and a period of readjustment. Say that they are welcome to call in at any time and that you’re all only an email away if they want to chat.
Wish Them Well For The Future
Offer them your best wishes and if they have mentioned their plans, make your note personal. If they have mentioned travel plans or pursuing an interest or a hobby, mention it and make them feel good about the time they will have to pursue those interests.
Bringing all these strands together, here are some examples of what you might write:
Just a small note to congratulate you on your retirement. I’m looking forward to attending your retirement party on Friday. But, just in case I miss talking with you in the crowd, I want you to know that I have valued you as a colleague and will miss seeing you at work.
Your contribution to the company over the past 30 years has been above and beyond. We all hope that you’ll stay in touch and keep us updated with your retirement adventures. And remember that you’re always welcome to call in for a coffee if you’re passing by.
The travel plans for going on safari that you have lined up for your retirement sound truly inspiring. So, I hope you have a rich, exciting future that will reward you for your many years of hard work. Best Wishes For The Future.
Retirement is a major milestone that you reach, so it’s one that should be celebrated. Whether you send a card that’s funny or sentimental you can count on it being gratefully received. Knowing how to write a retirement card makes your side of the event that much more pleasurable, too.