10 Last Day at Work Email Samples to Bid Farewell Gracefully

As much as we all like to think that we’re irreplaceable, the unfortunate truth is that everyone leaves their job eventually. Whether it’s for a new opportunity or simply time for a change, it’s important to leave on a good note. And that’s where the last day at work email comes in. This simple communication can leave a lasting impression on your colleagues and set the tone for your departure. But what do you say in this email? How do you express gratitude and say goodbye without seeming insincere or unprofessional? Fortunately, there are plenty of examples out there that you can use as a starting point and tailor to fit your unique situation. With a little bit of editing and personalization, you can craft a last day at work email that will leave a positive impression and maintain professional relationships for years to come.

The Best Structure for a Last Day at Work Email Sample

Your last day at work is an important milestone that can be an emotional and challenging experience. It’s crucial to leave on good terms with your colleagues and boss while maintaining a professional image. In this article, we’ll explore the best structure for a last day at work email sample that you can use to express gratitude, share your final thoughts, and say goodbye gracefully.

The first step in crafting your last day at work email is to open with a warm greeting and express appreciation for the opportunity to work with your colleagues and boss. Keep it short and sweet by acknowledging everyone’s support and guidance, as well as the challenges you overcame as a team. This sets a positive tone and shows that you are grateful for the experience you gained while working there.

Next, you can share your plans for the future and let your colleagues know what you will be doing after leaving. This is an excellent opportunity to mention your accomplishments, show your enthusiasm, and hint at any exciting projects or gigs you may have lined up. Keep it professional and positive while emphasizing your willingness to stay in touch.

After that, you can share some final thoughts and express your sincere appreciation for your colleagues’ hard work, talent, and friendship. Touch on any memories or favorite moments that stand out during your time there. This shows that you valued your colleagues’ contributions and made lasting connections while working there. Remember to keep the tone light and positive, avoiding any negative comments or criticism.

Last but not least, you can wrap up your email by offering some well wishes and thanking your colleagues for their support and encouragement. Show your willingness to assist in any way you can after leaving and remind everyone to keep in touch. This shows that you value your relationships and look forward to staying connected in the future.

In conclusion, the best structure for a last day at work email sample follows a warm greeting and expression of appreciation for the opportunity, followed by your plans for the future, some final thoughts and expressions of gratitude, and ending with well wishes and a reminder to stay in touch. Keep the tone light and positive while showing your appreciation for your colleagues’ hard work, talent, and friendship.

Last Day at Work Email Samples

Leaving for a New Job

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I wanted to let you know that today is my last day at [company name]. I’ve taken another position with a new company that I’m really excited about, and I’ll be starting there next week.

It has been an absolute pleasure working for you and the team. My time at [company name] has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m grateful for the opportunities to learn and grow that I’ve had during my time here.

Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to ensure a smooth transition. I’m happy to assist in any way that I can.

Thank you for everything, and I hope we can stay in touch.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Retirement

Dear [Manager’s Name],

As you may know, today is my last day at [company name]. After [X] years of working at this wonderful organization, it’s time for me to retire and enjoy some relaxation and travel.

It’s been an honor to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team, and I’ll miss everyone dearly. I’d like to thank you for all of the support and guidance you’ve given me throughout my career here at [company name]. I’ll cherish the memories and experiences I’ve had during my time here forever.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need anything. I may be retiring, but I’ll still be around and would be happy to offer my assistance if needed.

Thanks again for everything, and take care.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Personal Reasons

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I’m writing to inform you that today will be my last day at [company name]. Unfortunately, due to some personal reasons, I need to take a break from my work and focus on my family for a while.

I’m grateful for the opportunities and experiences I’ve had during my time here, and I’ve enjoyed working with such a talented team.

I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and I appreciate your understanding in this matter. I hope that my departure won’t cause any disruptions, and I’ll be happy to assist with the transition process in any way I can.

Thank you for your support and understanding.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Company Restructuring

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I’m writing to let you know that today marks my final day at [company name]. My departure is not voluntary, but due to the recent company restructuring that has affected my position.

It has been a pleasure to work with you and the team at [company name]. I have learned so much during my time here, and I’m grateful for all of the opportunities that were given to me. I will miss the work, but I will especially miss the friendships I’ve made during my tenure at [company name].

As this is an unexpected turn of events, I’ll be happy to assist in any way I can to ensure a smooth transition for my replacement.

Thank you for the time and opportunity you have given me to work at [company name]. I hope we can stay in touch.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Starting a Business

Dear [Manager’s Name],

Today is my last day at [company name]. After much consideration, I have decided to pursue my dreams of starting my own business. As much as I have enjoyed my stay here, it is time for me to take the next step in my journey and focus on my entrepreneurial goals.

I have enjoyed working with the team and learned a lot during my time here. I’m grateful for all the support and opportunities given to me throughout my tenure at [company name].

If there’s anything I can do to assist with the transition process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m excited about the new adventure ahead and hope that we can keep in touch.

Thank you for everything. It has been a pleasure working with you and the team.

Kindest regards,

[Your Name]

Relocating to A New State/Country

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that today is my last day at [company name]. I regret to inform you that I will be relocating to [new location] to be closer to my family.

Working with the team at [company name] has been an incredible experience. I have learned a great deal from my colleagues and enjoyed being part of a dynamic and supportive team.

While it’s hard to leave, I am excited about this new chapter in my life. I’m willing to assist in any way to ensure a smooth transition and minimal disruption in the workflow. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.

Thank you again for the opportunity to be part of your esteemed organization. I will miss working with all of you.

Best,

[Your Name]

Full-time Parenting

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to let you know that today is my last day at [company name]. After much thought, I have decided to leave my position to become a full-time parent to my children.

My time at [company name] has been memorable, and I am grateful for all the guidance and support the team has given me. It has been an honor to work with such a talented group of professionals.

I apologize for any inconvenience my departure may cause, and I’m willing to assist the transition process, especially in the handover of my roles and responsibilities to my direct reports. Please let me know how I can help.

Thank you for your understanding, encouragement, and support.

Wishing you all the best,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Last Day at Work Email Sample

Writing a last day at work email can be an emotional experience; it is the culmination of your time with your colleagues, and the final communication you will have with them. The email you send can leave a lasting impression on your coworkers, so it is important to get it right. Here are several tips for writing a last day at work email sample that will help you make a strong impact in a positive way:

  • Be professional and gracious – Your email should be a reflection of your professionalism. Show your gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you had while at the company, express your good wishes for your colleagues’ and their future success.
  • Keep it brief – Although you may have a lot you want to say to your colleagues, be mindful that they may be busy with their work. Keep your email short and sweet.
  • Provide contact information – You may have colleagues that you have worked closely with that you would like to stay in touch with. Include your personal contact information in your email as a way for your coworkers to get in touch with you in the future.
  • Acknowledge your replacement – If you have a replacement, be sure to recognize them in your email. Wish them well and offer to help them in any way you can to ensure a smooth transition.
  • Thank those who have helped you – Everyone needs help sometime, and it is important to recognize those who have helped you along the way. This can be a coworker or manager who has supported your growth, or someone who has mentored you.
  • End on a positive note – Your last day at work email is a chance to show your colleagues that you are leaving on good terms. It is important to end your email with a positive note such as wishing everyone at the company success in their future endeavors.

By following these tips for writing a last day at work email sample, you can ensure that your final communication with your colleagues is a positive experience. Remember to stay professional and gracious, and to keep your email brief. Provide your contact information so that colleagues can stay in touch with you, and acknowledge your replacement to show that you want the transition to go as smoothly as possible. Finally, remember to thank those who have helped you along the way and end on a positive note. Your email will leave a lasting impression, so make it count!

Last Day at Work Email Sample FAQs


What should I include in my last day at work email?

Your last day at work email should include a heartfelt thank you to your colleagues, a farewell message, and your contact information if you plan to keep in touch.

Should I mention the reason why I’m leaving in my last day at work email?

It’s up to your discretion. If you want to share why you’re leaving, you can do so briefly, but it’s not necessary.

What’s the appropriate tone for a last day at work email?

The tone should be positive, grateful, and professional. Avoid anything negative or overly emotional.

Should I email everyone in the company or just my team?

It’s not necessary to email everyone in the company, but you should at least email your team and direct managers. If you have close relationships with other colleagues, you can include them as well.

When should I send my last day at work email?

You should send it on your last day at work or a day before. Avoid sending it too far in advance or too close to your departure time.

Is it appropriate to include a personal message in my last day at work email?

A personal message can be appropriate, as long as it’s professional and avoids any TMI (too much information). Consider if it’s relevant to the email and your relationship with the recipient.

Should I ask for references or endorsements in my last day at work email?

You can certainly mention that you’d appreciate references or endorsements on LinkedIn, but it shouldn’t be the main focus of your email. Be gracious and thank everyone for their support.

What’s the best way to sign off my last day at work email?

The best sign-off depends on your relationship with the recipient. “Best regards”, “sincerely”, or “thank you” are appropriate for professional contacts. You can use a more personal sign-off for friends or close colleagues.

Should I cc or bcc anyone when sending my last day at work email?

It’s not necessary to cc or bcc anyone, but if you want to keep someone in the loop for reference purposes, you can do so. Just make sure to check with the recipient first if it’s okay to include them.

Thanks for Making It This Far!

And that’s it for our last day at work email sample. We hope you found some inspiration in our examples, and that you’re feeling more confident about saying your goodbyes to colleagues. Remember, it’s important to leave on a positive note and show gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had. We wish you the best of luck in your own farewell email, and invite you to come back and visit us again for more career and workplace advice. Happy trails!