Saying Goodbye Without the Awkwardness
Let’s be honest—writing a testimonial for an employee who’s leaving can be as tricky as choosing a farewell gift. Do you go with a generic “Good luck with your future endeavors” (yawn), or do you pour your heart out like you’re in a dramatic movie scene?
A well-written testimonial strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and genuine appreciation. Whether your employee was a rockstar performer, a silent warrior, or the office’s unofficial problem solver, your words should reflect their impact.
So, how do you craft a farewell testimonial that’s memorable, heartfelt, and doesn’t sound like a robotic LinkedIn endorsement? Buckle up—we’re diving deep into the art of writing the perfect employee testimonial.
Why Writing a Testimonial Matters
A great testimonial isn’t just a formality; it’s a powerful way to:
✅ Acknowledge the employee’s contributions
✅ Boost morale for current employees
✅ Strengthen employer branding (future hires will see how well you treat your team)
✅ Maintain good relationships for potential collaborations in the future
When done right, a testimonial becomes more than just words—it becomes a legacy of appreciation.
Key Elements of a Strong Employee Testimonial
Before we jump into templates and examples, here’s what every good testimonial should include:
A Warm Opening
Start with a heartfelt message. Instead of a dry “We appreciate your time here,” make it personal.
👉 Example: “From day one, [Employee’s Name] brought unmatched energy, passion, and dedication to our team.”
Highlight Their Contributions
Mention specific achievements, skills, or qualities that made them stand out.
Example: “Their ability to turn complex problems into simple solutions has saved our team countless hours.”
Share a Memorable Moment
A small story or inside joke makes the testimonial feel authentic.
Example: “We’ll never forget the time [Employee’s Name] pulled off an impossible deadline with a smile (and about 10 cups of coffee).”
Express Gratitude & Well Wishes
End on a positive note with a warm goodbye.
Example: “We are sad to see you go, but excited to see where your journey takes you next. Wishing you all the success in the world!”
Testimonial Examples for Different Scenarios
Now, let’s get practical. Here are testimonial templates for different situations:
General Appreciation Testimonial
“It has been an absolute pleasure working with [Employee’s Name] over the past [X] years. Their dedication, hard work, and positive attitude have left a lasting impact on our team. Whether it was tackling challenging projects or uplifting the team with their enthusiasm, they always delivered beyond expectations. We will miss them dearly but are confident they will continue to shine in their next role. Best of luck, [Employee’s Name]!”
Testimonial for a High-Performing Employee
“Brilliance, innovation, and commitment—three words that perfectly define [Employee’s Name]. Their ability to lead projects with precision and creativity has truly set a benchmark. The work they’ve done on [specific project] has revolutionized how we operate, and we are beyond grateful for their contributions. While we are sad to see them leave, we know they are destined for even greater success. Wishing you all the best in your new adventure, [Employee’s Name]!”
Funny & Lighthearted Testimonial
“If there’s one thing we’ll miss more than [Employee’s Name]’s incredible work ethic, it’s their legendary office humor. From cracking the best (and worst) jokes to making stressful days a little lighter, [Employee’s Name] has been the heartbeat of our team. Who will we turn to for last-minute fixes and coffee runs now? Jokes aside, we are beyond grateful for everything you’ve done and wish you endless success in your next chapter!”
Testimonial for a Long-Term Employee
“Saying goodbye to [Employee’s Name] is like closing a cherished book—one filled with incredible achievements, teamwork, and growth. For [X] years, they have been an integral part of our success, contributing with dedication, leadership, and passion. Their expertise in [specific area] has shaped our company in ways we’ll always appreciate. While we will miss them dearly, we are also excited to see them soar in their next adventure. Thank you, [Employee’s Name], for everything!”
Testimonial for a Mentor or Leader
“Some people don’t just do their jobs—they inspire, guide, and uplift everyone around them. [Employee’s Name] has been one of those rare individuals. Their mentorship, wisdom, and unwavering support have shaped the careers of many, and their leadership has been nothing short of remarkable. While their departure is a great loss for us, we know their next team is about to gain an extraordinary leader. Thank you, [Employee’s Name], for everything you’ve done!”
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Testimonial
🚫 Being too vague – “They were great to work with” doesn’t say much. Be specific.
🚫 Making it too formal – A stiff, robotic testimonial feels impersonal.
🚫 Forgetting to mention their future – A farewell isn’t just about the past; wish them success ahead.
🚫 Being too long-winded – Keep it concise (150-250 words max).
FAQs
How long should a farewell testimonial be?
A good testimonial should be between 150-250 words. Short enough to be engaging, but detailed enough to feel meaningful.
Can I add humor to a testimonial?
Absolutely! If the employee has a fun personality and your company culture allows it, humor can make the testimonial more personal and memorable.
Should I mention weaknesses or areas for improvement?
Nope! A farewell testimonial is about appreciation, not performance reviews. Keep it positive and professional.
Can I write a testimonial for a short-term employee?
Yes! Even if they were with your company for a short time, highlighting their contributions and impact is always a good practice.
What’s the difference between a testimonial and a reference letter?
A testimonial is a general appreciation note, while a reference letter is a formal document supporting a job application.
The Perfect Goodbye Is More Than Just Words
A well-crafted testimonial is a small but powerful way to say “thank you” to an employee leaving. Whether you go for a heartfelt, professional, or humorous approach, make sure it truly reflects their impact.
Now that you know how to write a great employee testimonial, go ahead—pick up that pen (or keyboard) and make their farewell one to remember!
