How to write thoughtful work anniversary messages (with examples)
Celebrating work anniversaries is an important part of workplace culture. They present the opportunity for an organisation (and coworkers) to show gratitude to someone by celebrating their milestones. When the work anniversary card comes your way, it’s your chance to help make your colleague feel appreciated.
It’s nice to congratulate someone on their work anniversary, even if you don’t know them very well. This article provides guidance on how to write thoughtful work anniversary messages for a range of different scenarios.
What is a work anniversary message?
A work anniversary message is a way to acknowledge and celebrate a colleague completing a full year (or several) at an organisation. It may be a message in a card, a handwritten note, verbal, in an email, or sent through an instant message. Work anniversary messages are a chance for you to express your appreciation for your colleagues and congratulate them on their loyalty and dedication to their jobs.
How to write a sincere work anniversary message
When writing a work anniversary message, your words should sound from the heart. Here are some tips to get you on the right track.
Consider your audience
If you want to write meaningful work anniversary messages, then always tailor them to the individual person. If you’re close to your colleague, recall a work memory you share with them, or include a reason why you’re glad they work there. For someone you don’t know as well it’s fine to keep your message simple and to the point.
If you’re adding a message to a group card, remember that it won’t be private, so it’s best to always keep your messages work appropriate.
Tailor your message
While Happy Work Anniversary is fine if you don’t know the person well, adding a personal detail is a nice touch for someone you work with every day.
To make your message personalised, mention a recent, specific achievement or quality about the person you appreciate, or something you’re particularly grateful for, and wish them well for the future.
For example: “Your positive attitude always brightens my day,” or “Your leadership is the secret to our team’s success.”
When to use humour in work anniversary messages
Humour can be a good way to personalise a work anniversary message. However, it should always be appropriate for the workplace. Only write a funny message for colleagues you know well.
Avoid any jokes or humour that could be seen as mean-spirited or sarcastic, including inside jokes that may make others feel left out.
Examples of work anniversary messages
It’s not always easy coming up with work anniversary messages that strike the right balance, but looking at some examples might give you some ideas. Here are suggestions for work anniversary messages to suit different colleagues and situations.
Simple work anniversary message example
Short-and-sweet work anniversary messages are a great choice, especially if you’re writing in a group card and have to leave space for others to write.
Happy two-year work anniversary, Vera!
Wishing you a happy first anniversary! We appreciate all your hard work.
Funny work anniversary messages example
Funny work anniversary messages should be accessible to everyone and used cautiously. Here are some work-safe funny work anniversary messages:
Another year here? You must really love us! The feeling is mutual – Happy Workiversary!!
Happy fifth work anniversary! Thanks for putting up with us for another year.
Happy work anniversary messages example
A work anniversary message is a great opportunity to share some positivity with your colleagues. Try these happy work anniversary messages:
Cheers to another year of your incredible contributions! Thank you for everything you do.
Thank you for being such a superstar over the past year. Happy first work anniversary –hope there's many more!
Celebratory work anniversary message example
Work anniversaries are a big milestone and present a great chance to celebrate the achievements of a coworker. Celebratory work anniversary messages can make your colleague feel recognised and motivated to accomplish even more.
Congratulations on your 7th work anniversary! It’s such a joy working with you and getting to celebrate your big milestone with you today.
Wishing you the happiest work anniversary! Your positive attitude is infectious and I’m so happy I get to work with you.
Formal/professional work anniversary message example
Formal or professional work anniversary messages are fitting when writing to someone in leadership or a colleague you don’t directly work with. Try professional work anniversary messages like these:
Wishing you a happy 3rd work anniversary! We are so lucky to have you leading our team.
Congratulations on reaching another milestone in your career. Your dedication is an example for us all. Happy work anniversary!
Long-term work anniversary message example
For a long-term work anniversary, congratulations on years of service is a must. Here are some examples of congratulating someone for a milestone anniversary:
Happy 15th work anniversary! Your dedication and hard work are truly an inspiration. I appreciate your expertise and the support you’re always so happy to provide.
Happy 12th anniversary! Thank you for being a great team leader and having endless patience for all my questions.
Work anniversary message example for a boss
Congratulating a boss on their work anniversary is a good way to show your thanks for the support and guidance they provide you and your team. Some examples of what to say include:
Wishing you a happy anniversary! Your leadership and support inspire me every day. Thank you for being a great mentor.
Congratulations on another great year, Karen! Thanks for always sharing your wisdom and being so supportive of all of us.
A well-written work anniversary message can go a long way in making your colleagues feel appreciated for their achievements. It’s the perfect time to show someone they are valued, and a simple gesture that fosters a healthy and supportive workplace culture.
FAQs
Should I write a work anniversary message to someone I don't know well?
While you don’t need to message someone you don’t know for their work anniversary, it is nice to do so. A simple congratulations message can help build team morale and good workplace culture. It can also help you make new connections and expand your professional network.
What to write in a 20-year work anniversary card?
When writing in a 20-year work anniversary card message, congratulate the person on reaching a significant professional milestone.
For example: “Congratulations on your 20th work anniversary! You’re an inspiration to us all.”
How do you express gratitude on a work anniversary?
To express gratitude on a work anniversary, you can congratulate the person and thank them specifically for how they have supported you.
For example: “Congratulations on your work anniversary. I really appreciate your help with all my training over the last year and look forward to working together more.”
Is it okay to send a work anniversary message via email, or should it be handwritten?
It is okay to send a work anniversary message by email, and it’s also okay to send a handwritten message. Some workplaces will have a group card (or e-card) to sign, but you can also send a private message by email or instant chat if you have a close relationship.
How long should a work anniversary message be?
A work anniversary message should be one or two lines, or even shorter if you don’t know the person well. If you’re writing a personal work anniversary message to a close colleague, it can be longer.
Is it appropriate to mention a gift in my work anniversary message?
It may not be appropriate to mention a gift in your work anniversary message. It’s best to write a simple message that focuses on the contributions and achievements of your colleague rather than anything they’re receiving.
What if I can't think of a specific contribution to highlight?
If you can’t think of a specific contribution to highlight when messaging someone on their work anniversary, simply congratulate them. A generic message is fine, especially if you don’t know the person well.
How can I personalise my message if the recipient has a serious work style?
To personalise your work anniversary message to someone with a serious work style, focus on their achievements. You could talk about a specific project they did well on, or skills they have that you admire.
Is humour ever okay in a work anniversary message?
Yes, humour is okay in a work anniversary message if you are on friendly terms with your colleague. However, it should always be appropriate for the workplace.
How do you say thank you meaningfully at work?
Using specific examples is a good way to say thank you in a meaningful way at work. You could mention specifically what you’re grateful for, and address it to them personally. See the article above for examples and ideas.
