What to write in a retirement card

Retirement cards are read more carefully than any other kind, usually more than once, often years later. That is worth writing for. Say what they were like to work with rather than what they achieved — the achievements are in the leaving speech. And go gently on the jokes about free time; for some people retiring is a relief and for others it is a loss.

Warm

Friendly, unfussy, safe with almost anybody.

• Time is yours now. Enjoy every bit of it.
• Congratulations — you’ve earned a very long lie-in.
• Happy retirement. It won’t be the same without you.
• Here’s to whatever comes next. Enjoy it thoroughly.
• Congratulations on the finish line. Go well.

Funny

A joke with affection behind it. Read the room first.

• Happy retirement. Every day is Saturday now; try to keep track.
• Congratulations. Your out-of-office is permanent.
• Enjoy retirement. We’ll keep ruining things in your absence.
• Happy retirement — the only meeting left is lunch.
• Congratulations. Please don’t answer your emails. We’ll know.

Heartfelt

For the people you would actually say this to out loud.

• Thank you for everything. You taught me more than you probably realise.
• You made this a better place to work, and a better place to be. Enjoy what comes next.
• Happy retirement. It has been a privilege working alongside you.
• Thank you for your patience, your standards and your kindness. All three were noticed.
• You leave a gap, and that is the best thing that can be said about a career.

Simple

When short is the right answer, and it often is.

• Happy retirement!
• Congratulations — enjoy it.
• Wishing you a long and happy retirement.
• Thank you for everything. Enjoy the rest.
• All the best for what comes next.

What to avoid

• Don’t joke about them being old. It is the default joke and it lands badly as often as not.
• Don’t assume they are pleased to be going. Some retirements are not a choice.
• Don’t say “don’t be a stranger” unless you mean to stay in touch.
• Don’t make it about how the place will cope without them.