Need some help writing thank-you messages for coworkers? Showing appreciation for your colleagues goes beyond a nice gesture—it helps build a positive workplace culture, strengthens professional relationships, and boosts morale.
Whether a teammate helped you meet a tight deadline, covered for you during an emergency, or simply brightened your workday, a heartfelt thank-you can go a long way toward expressing your gratitude.
When to show gratitude to teammates
There are many moments when showing your appreciation to a coworker is appropriate. Here are some common scenarios:
- They helped you with a project or task
- They provided emotional support during a tough time
- They mentored or guided you
- They gave you a thoughtful gift
- They supported you during a transition, like a promotion or a new role
- They organized an event or celebration
- They covered for you when you were out
- They collaborated effectively with you on a project
No matter the situation, a well-written thank-you card for a coworker can strengthen your professional relationships and make the workplace more enjoyable.
Thank-you messages for coworkers (in different scenarios and tones!)
If you need to write a thank-you note to a coworker but are stuck on how to word it, browse this list for inspiration.
Thank-you notes for coworkers who helped you with a project
Formal: I truly appreciate the effort you put into [specific task]. Your expertise and dedication made all the difference, and I couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you!
Casual: Hey [Name], I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for all your help on [project/task]. You really saved the day, and I appreciate it more than you know!
Close colleague: You rock! I seriously don’t know what I’d do without you. Thanks for being such a great teammate and always stepping in when I need help.
Thank-you notes for coworkers who covered for you
Formal: I sincerely appreciate you covering for me while I was out. Knowing that everything was in good hands made my time away much easier. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Casual: Thanks so much for covering for me, [Name]! I owe you one. Let me know how I can return the favor.
Close colleague: You are a lifesaver! Thanks a ton for covering for me—I seriously owe you coffee/lunch for this one.
Thank-you notes for coworkers who provided you emotional support
Formal: Your kindness and support during [situation] meant so much to me. I’m truly grateful to have such a thoughtful colleague. Thank you for being there.
Casual: I just want to say thanks for always being such a great listener. Your support during [situation] meant a lot to me!
Close colleague: You’re the best! Seriously, I don’t know what I’d do without our chats. Thanks for always having my back.
Thank-you notes for coworkers who mentored you
Formal: I am incredibly grateful for your mentorship and guidance. Your advice and support have truly helped me grow in my role. Thank you for everything!
Casual: I’ve learned so much from you, and I just want to say thanks! I really appreciate all the time and wisdom you’ve shared with me.
Close colleague: You are an absolute legend! Thanks for always sharing your knowledge and looking out for me—I appreciate it more than you know.
Thank-you notes for coworkers who gifted you
Formal: Thank you so much for the thoughtful gift. It was such a kind surprise, and I truly appreciate your generosity!
Casual: Wow! Thank you for the awesome gift. It really made my day. You’re the best!
Close colleague: This gift is amazing! How did you know exactly what I wanted? Thanks a million, you’re the best!
Thank-you notes for coworkers who supported your promotion
Formal: I appreciate all your support and encouragement as I transition into my new role. Your guidance has been invaluable, and I’m grateful to have you as a colleague.
Casual: Thanks so much for your support and kind words! I couldn’t have done it without amazing colleagues like you.
Close colleague: You’re the best cheerleader ever! Thanks for always hyping me up and believing in me. Let’s celebrate soon!
Thank-you notes for coworkers who planned an event
Formal: Thank you for organizing such a wonderful [event/celebration]. Your hard work and attention to detail made it truly special.
Casual: That was such a great [event]! Thank you for putting everything together—it was so much fun.
Close colleague: You totally crushed it! The [event] was amazing. Thanks for making it happen!
Thank-you notes for coworkers who collaborated well on a project
Formal: It was a pleasure working with you on [project]. Your expertise and collaboration made all the difference. I look forward to working together again soon!
Casual: Teamwork makes the dream work, and you were an awesome teammate! Thanks for making this project such a success.
Close colleague: We make a great team! Thanks for all the laughs and hard work—I’d collaborate with you any day!
What not to do when sending appreciation messages for colleagues at work
While expressing gratitude is always a good thing, here are some things to avoid when sending an appreciation note to coworker:
- Don’t just thank someone when you need something. People will notice if you only reach out when you want a favor.
- Don’t be overly generic. A message like “Thanks for everything” is nice but not very memorable. Be specific!
- Don’t make it all about you. Keep the focus on your coworker’s contributions, not your own achievements.
- Don’t forget to follow up. If you thank someone in person or via email, a small follow-up (like a coffee or a handwritten note) can go a long way.
The power of gratitude at work
Taking a moment to thank your coworkers can strengthen your professional relationships, boost morale, and create a more positive workplace. Whether it’s a quick message, a handwritten note, or a small gesture of appreciation, your gratitude will never go unnoticed. So, don’t hesitate—start spreading some workplace kindness today!
Read this next: How a Little Gratitude Can Help You Get Ahead at Work