We spend a huge part of our lives at work — and the people we work with often become more than colleagues. So, when your favorite coworker announces they’re leaving, it’s natural to feel a mix of pride, sadness, and maybe even anxiety about the change. Whether they’re moving to a new city, starting a new job, or taking time off, this moment can be emotional for both sides.
But more than anything, it’s a chance to celebrate. To show appreciation. To remind them how much they’ve meant to the team — and to you personally. Let’s walk through how to handle it all: from goodbye messages and farewell gifts to how much to spend and what to say on their last day.
What is the best goodbye message?
First things first: take a moment to process. It’s okay to feel bummed. Losing a great teammate changes the rhythm of work. But try to reframe the moment as a new beginning — for both of you.
Support them in practical ways. Offer to help wrap up tasks, transfer knowledge, or just grab coffee and talk about their next chapter. If you’re especially close, exchange personal contact info and make plans to keep in touch beyond the office.
When the time comes, don't let them slip out quietly. Organize something — even if it's simple. A goodbye lunch, a card everyone signs, or a few heartfelt words in a team meeting. These gestures mean more than you might think.
What is a leaving gift for a colleague?
A good goodbye message isn’t just polite — it’s personal. Whether written in a card, shared in a speech, or sent via email or Slack, the goal is to acknowledge your coworker’s contributions and wish them well. Here's a structure that works every time:
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Start with appreciation
“It’s been an absolute pleasure working with you.” -
Add something personal
“Your calm energy in stressful meetings made all the difference.” -
Share a memory or moment
“I’ll never forget that night we pulled off the launch with no time to spare.” -
Wish them well
“You’re going to be amazing in your next role — they’re lucky to have you.”
If you’re close, go deeper. Mention inside jokes or shared goals. And don’t worry about sounding too emotional — sincerity always wins.
How much is appropriate for coworker gift?
The best farewell gifts aren’t flashy — they’re meaningful. Think about your coworker’s personality, interests, or what you’ve shared together. Some coworkers might love a bottle of wine or a book. Others might prefer something playful or handcrafted. One beautiful and memorable idea? A custom-made wooden map.
These personalized wooden maps can represent a city, neighborhood, or even the area around your office. You can engrave a farewell message, mark meaningful landmarks, or choose a layered wood design for added depth. It’s the kind of gift that stays with someone — not just physically, but emotionally too. It says, “You were part of something special here.”
Other great ideas include:
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A framed team photo or group card
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A plant for their next workspace
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A journal with notes from coworkers inside
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A tote bag or mug with an inside joke or custom design
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A memory jar filled with farewell messages
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A book with a personal note on the first page
What is a good farewell gift for a colleague?
There’s no one-size-fits-all budget for coworker gifts. But here are some helpful guidelines:
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For individual gifts: $10–$30 is more than enough to show thoughtfulness.
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For group gifts: It’s common to contribute $5–$20 each, depending on team size and how close you are to the person leaving.
It’s not about the money — it’s about the intent. A $15 gift with heart means more than a $100 gift with no thought behind it. If your team is organizing something larger, offer to coordinate or chip in. Often, one well-planned group gift can carry more impact than a dozen small items.
How do you honor a coworker who is leaving?
The last day shouldn’t be awkward or quiet. It should feel like a proper send-off — even if you’re not the party-planning type. Here are a few simple, low-pressure ideas:
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Organize a farewell huddle or toast: Gather the team (in person or virtually), say a few words, let others share memories or thank-yous. Keep it light and celebratory.
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Create a digital or physical goodbye card: Use tools like Kudoboard or simply pass around a notebook.
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Prepare a short speech or message: Don’t overthink it — just be genuine.
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Present the gift in a meaningful way: Tell the story behind it. Why you chose it. What it symbolizes.
And don’t forget to leave a little something for after they’re gone — maybe a personal note, an email scheduled for their first day at the new job, or a funny photo from a past event.
If they were someone who made your workdays brighter, let them know it. Those final moments carry weight — and leave lasting memories.
What to get someone for the last day of work?
When a great coworker leaves, it’s tempting to treat it like any other work change. But it’s more than that — it’s an opportunity. To recognize someone’s impact. To build stronger team culture. And to make sure that even when people move on, they carry a piece of your shared experience with them.
So take a few moments. Say the kind words. Give the meaningful gift. Share the laugh. Maybe even shed a tear. Because those things don’t just help them — they help you, too.
