Everyone likes to feel appreciated. Being recognized for the work you do fends off resentment, increases contentment, and yes, makes you want to work even harder. That's why wishing someone a happy work anniversary – one of the most basic forms of employee appreciation – is so important.
Here are some thoughtful work anniversary messages you can send to a coworker, boss, or friend. Whether you're looking for a message to share on social media, in a greeting card, or in a humble text message, these wording ideas will help you come up with the perfect sentiment.
General
To start, here are some work anniversary wishes that work for almost any situation.
• Happy work anniversary! Thanks for everything you do around here. This place wouldn't be the same without you.
• Happy work anniversary to the nicest coworker anyone could ask for!
• Another year of excellence! Thanks for all the amazing work you do. Your effort and enthusiasm are much needed, and very much appreciated.
• From all of us… happy anniversary! Thank you for your hard work, your generosity, and your contagious enthusiasm.
• Congratulations on your work anniversary! We appreciate your energy, your kindness, and all the work you do, but most of all, we just appreciate you!
• I couldn't let your work anniversary pass without sending my best wishes. How lucky am I to work with someone I can truly call a friend?
• [Non-Coworker] Happy work anniversary! They are truly lucky to have such a smart, thoughtful, and talented person like you.
• [Self] Today marks the 6th year I've been at this job. To all the great people I've met and worked with… thanks! It's been a wild, wonderful ride, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
• [Boss] I hope you celebrate many more anniversaries here, because I don't like my chances of getting a better boss than you.
Milestone Work Anniversary
Here are some special wording ideas for the big milestones.
• Congratulations on your 1-year work anniversary! You've accomplished a lot in the past year, and I can't wait to see what you do in the future.
• Happy 1-year work anniversary! You are simply awesome!
• Congratulations on hitting the 5-year mark with the company! Hope you stick around for many more because you're one of the best!
• It's your 10-year anniversary! Thanks for being part of our family for a full decade. It's hard to imagine this place without you.
• Happy anniversary! The company has changed a lot in the 20 years you've been here. I'm sure you've seen and done it all. And yet you still treat every day like its your first day on the job. Thanks for all the hard work that started 20 years ago and continues to this day.
• Has it really been 30 years since you started here? I guess time flies when you're having fun. Thanks for your years of service, your hard work, your dedication, and for everything you've done to make this company what it is today.
Funny
Finally, here are some humorous ways to wish someone a happy work anniversary. It goes without saying that you might not want your employer to see you sharing messages like these.
• Happy anniversary to an employee who has made invaluable contributions to this company. Now get back to work!
• Congrats on surviving another year at your job. Lesser mortals would have gone insane by now.
• Happy work anniversary to a coworker who has many talents, including the spooky ability to sense when there are donuts in the break room.
• Happy work anniversary! Don't you dare think about taking another job – but if you do, please take me with you.
• Congrats on another year of thankless work. It's taking them much longer than expected to bleed you dry.
• People like you make this company what it is. And I mean that in a good way – really!
• [Self] Today is my work anniversary! Can you believe I've been here three years? I'm sure for many of my coworkers, it seems like much, much longer. 😉
Want to go even further with your message of appreciation? Consider sending a humble gift of candy with one of these clever sayings.
Wishing someone a Happy Work Anniversary can be a little tricky. You want the message to be heartfelt and mean something to your colleague, friend, or boss. But you don’t want it to be too long or corny. So, picking out the right work anniversary message is key to making your coworkers feel appreciated.
Celebrating these milestones can mean a lot to the receiver. It’s the sign of a job well done for the past year and recognition of their excellent work.
It is a simple gesture, but when delivered sincerely; it can have a significant impact. The goodwill and positive feelings conveyed by a thoughtful work anniversary wish can last for a long time.
Best Happy Work Anniversary Messages
2.) I looked up the word, “Indispensable” in the dictionary, and your photo appears. Happy anniversary, Superstar!
3.) Thanks for everything you have done for all of us. Your hard work and dedication have paid off.
4.) We would absolutely hang out with you even if we weren't compensated.
5.) I don’t toss the word “Brilliant” around loosely, but you come to mind when I think of all your company contributions and what you’ve done for me. Congrats on surviving another year in the jungle.
Good Work Anniversary Wishes
6.) Words can only express so much and aren’t nearly enough to say thank you for all your hard work. Warmest Wishes today on your Work Anniversary!
7.) I’d like to say that since you joined this company, you have made a big difference. Your attitude and skills add value daily. Keep up the excellent work!
8.) Your best quality may be your positivity. There’s no question it rubs off on everyone around you. Thank you for contributing to this positive energy.
9.) Dedication means many things to many people, but to us, commitment is you. The way you have dedicated yourself to this company is genuinely admirable.
10.) There is nothing I can do or say that will express the gratitude we have for you at this company. Congrats on another great year.
11.) I remember the first time we interviewed you many years ago. When we decided to hire you, you thrived in your new position. Today on your Work Anniversary, we just wanted to say thank you for all you’ve done and accomplished.
12.) You are the person we thought you were when you joined our team many years ago. Happy Work Anniversary and best wishes in the years to come!
13.) You have displayed dedication and hard work for several years. Your compassion and willingness to get the job done are compelling. To one of the best!
Happy Work Anniversary Funny Messages
14.) Today we honor a great man, a person of integrity who has made countless contributions to this organization. A true genius! But, enough about me, let's talk about you and your work anniversary.
15.) Don’t let this whole Work Anniversary thing go to your head, we all had to start somewhere. Just wait until you’ve been here as long as I have.
16.) It seems like yesterday that you started working with us. Oh wait, it was yesterday. Happy One Day Anniversary. Sincerely, Happy Work Anniversary, and we’d like you to stay for many more.
17.) It’s your Work Anniversary! Now, get back to work! Only kidding, Happy Anniversary, and here’s hoping for many more.
18.) I think everyone would say that you are a gift to this company. Your dedication and contributions would be hard to replace. Please don’t regift yourself somewhere else.
19.) Today is your Work Anniversary, and we all just wanted to express how much we enjoy having you with us. Working together, side by side, you get to know people. And we think you’re a keeper.
Humorous Expressions
20.) You have never-ending team spirit, and frankly, we’re getting a little tired of it. In all seriousness Happy Work Anniversary, you’re great to be around.
21.) (Insert employee’s name) let me say how privileged I am to have you as an employee. I value everything you have done for us so far, but what have you done for us lately? Happy Work Anniversary, you’re the best!
22.) I wanted to thank you for everything you have done here at our company, but I couldn’t think of anything. Happy Work Anniversary and a heartfelt thank you for all you’ve done.
23.) Every workplace needs someone who stands out from the rest and trusts me. You stand out. You’re outstanding!
24.) We are proud to have you with our organization, and we wouldn’t wish you on anyone else. Seriously, we are pleased to have you on our team. Happy Work Anniversary.
Work Anniversary Wishes
25.) On this your work anniversary, best wishes for a job well done. We all enjoy having you around, and you’re doing a great job. Best Wishes!
26.) Every organization should have an employee like you. Warmest Greetings on your Work Anniversary! You’re special, and you bring a unique quality to the job every day.
27.) You’re not just a committed employee; you are an awesome person. We wish you the best in the year ahead, and I hope you are with us for many more years to come.
28.) You are a loyal employee, and the confidence you bring to the job is genuinely admirable. We’re grateful you joined our team and wish you a Happy Work Anniversary!
29.) Every day you amaze us with the level of detail you put into your job. You’re a great role model, and today on your Work Anniversary is the perfect day to recognize it!
Happy 1st Work Anniversary
30.) Just a year ago today, we added a very skilled and personable member to our team. And that member was you. Happy First Year Work Anniversary!
31.) All of the positive qualities you bring to our team make you a valuable employee. Thanks for joining us on the journey, hard to believe it’s been a year.
32.) Kudos on your Work Anniversary, it’s been an absolute pleasure working with you this past year. Happy One Year Work anniversary!
33.) I don’t know if you realize it, but your level of perfectionism has awed us all since day one. Now, it’s been a full year, Happy First Year Work Anniversary, and thank you for keeping us in awe.
34.) Three words tell the story of your first year with us: self-motivated, disciplined, and focused. You have those qualities as much today as you did when you started a year ago. Happy Anniversary!
Happy 2nd Work Anniversary
35.) Since you started working here two years ago, you’ve set the standard for being a good employee. Happy 2nd Anniversary, and thanks for joining our team.
36.) Two years is more than one, and it seems like the second year goes even faster. Happy Second Year Anniversary! Please stick around for a lot more.
37.) You inspire us every day, and your work ethics are second to none. On this, your Second Year Work Anniversary, we salute your talent, and we’re glad you’re here!
38.) I know all of us to take great pride in working beside you and having you on our team. Happy 2nd Work anniversary, and remember, it’s just the start!
39.) Your professional life is a journey, and today, that journey reached a milestone, two years. It’s your Second Year Work Anniversary, and we’re happy you’re spending it with us.
5th Year
40.) It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly half a decade since you joined us here at (insert company name). Our heartfelt congratulations!
41.) Five years is a long time, but we hope you’ll be spending many more years with us. Your dedication and hard work are much appreciated.
42.) Can you believe it’s been five years since you joined our team? You still continue to inspire us and cheer us up.
43.) Today, I wanted to express my appreciation for having you around. You make our workplace enjoyable and bring a lot to the table.
44.) We all learn and grow, but you have exceptionally learned and excelled in your current position. We’re glad you decided to accept our offer five years ago.
10 Year
45.) Ten years is an incredible professional milestone, and it can be tough to stay in the same place for a long time. But we’re delighted you did.
46.) Time flies when you’re having fun, and ten years have been a fun time with you!
47.) Even after ten years, you’re still full of passion for your job, that is something to behold. To maintain that level of commitment for Ten Years deserves an award.
48.) I still remember the first day I met you ten years ago. We hope you are as happy working for this organization as we are working with you.
49.) Your working life isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon, and today you reached a crucial point in that marathon, ten years, Happy 10 Year Work anniversary to someone who just keeps on plugging
Job Anniversary Sayings
50.) With a colleague like you, handling Monday mornings just got a lot easier. Congratulations!
51.) It’s not just another year, it’s another 365 days of great jokes and shared fun. Please keep it up; we need you here.
52.) It seems like you just joined our team, but the way you fit in, it also seems like you have always been here. Congratulations!
53.) I wish you good luck on your job anniversary. But you don’t need it. You have the drive and determination to be successful here for years to come.
54.) It’s been a great experience working with you for the past year; you shine. Here’s hoping you have many more job anniversaries.
Work Anniversary Wishes for Boss
55.) For another year, you’ve been the perfect role model of what a great employee should be. Here’s wishing you many more.
56.) It’s hard to believe that another year has flown by and you’ve contributed another year of excellent job performance.
57.) Wishing you all the best for years to come. We are fortunate to have you with our organization.
58.) We are lucky to have you as our team leader. Every day you provide us with great examples of how to do our jobs. Thanks for being our boss for another year.
59.) My best wishes for another year with the firm. You take a lot of the boredom out of the office and help all of us work better and harder.
60.) Working with you has been a great benefit. Your leadership and strong work ethic provide all of us with great motivation. Wishing you a wonderful day, and it’s an honor to have you as our boss.
61.) It’s a pleasure working with you every day. As a coworker, I couldn’t be happier than working by your side. Thanks for making the time fly.
62.) You are a real asset to this company. Each time your Work Anniversary rolls around, I find myself thinking of what we would do without you. I don’t want to think about it. Best Wishes.
63.) Here are my heartfelt wishes for an excellent day, week, and year. Your dedication is second to none, and each day you demonstrate to all of us what a fantastic employee you are!
Captions for Employees
64.) A year goes by quickly, but the time we’ve spent with you here at work has been extraordinary. Best Wishes on your annual recognition day, the next will go by just as fast.
65.) I wish you the best — Thank you for your loyalty and dedication.
66.) On this day, you have reached another milestone in your career at (insert company name). Best Wishes on this special day, and thank you for choosing us.
67.) In your many years of service, you have given our organization a lot of hard work and a strong effort on the job. Kudos on a job well done!
68.) Congratulations, you did it again!
69.) Best Wishes for another successful year. To someone who deserves all of the kudos they get.
70.) I wish you many years of success and happiness today! We look forward to many more successful years with you.
71.) There is no question that you bring first-class professionalism, determination, and passion to your job. Those qualities are the reason we hired you, and those qualities continue to serve you well each year.
72.) Best of luck next year because you already knocked it out of the park this year. Warm Wishes on your Work Anniversary, and may you continue to be successful!
73.) The best employee deserves the best wishes. We need you and are very happy you’re here.
74.) Looking back on the year that just ended, we couldn’t have been successful without you. Thank you for all of the difference you make.
Work Anniversary Quotes
75.) Oh yes, the past can hurt. But you can either run from it or learn from it.
Rafiki, The Lion King. On your Anniversary, you have learned well.
76.) Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.
Stephen Hawking. You have adapted as well as I’ve seen Congratulations on your work Anniversary.
77.) Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.
Michael Jordan. Thanks for being a member of our team and Happy Work Anniversary.
78.) Always be a first-rate version of yourself and not a second-rate version of somebody else.
Judy Garland. You have always been a first-rate version of yourself, and this office has a lot to thank for it. Congratulations on another year.
79.) Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.
Henry Ford. Just always make up your mind that you can.
Quotations and Sayings
80.) Appreciate your job no matter what you do. Give your job reasons to appreciate you in return. What you do counts, it’s useful; it’s needed.
Unknown
81.) Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.
Robert Louis Stevenson. Keep planting seeds!
82.) Do what you do so well that they will want to see it again and again and bring their friend.
Walt Disney. You do it very well. Best Wishes!
83.) If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.
John Quincy Adams. Keep leading the way!
84.) The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease to be able to do it.
J.M. Barrie. We’re happy you fly for us. All the best!
Cool Work Quotes
85.) When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.
Paulo Coelho
86.) The future depends on what you do today.
Mahatma Gandhi
87.) People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.
88.) The individual who says it is not possible should move out of the way of those doing it.
Unknown
89.) Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.
Franklin D. Roosevelt
90.) Do the hard jobs first. Easy jobs will take care of themselves.
Dale Carnegie
91.) Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.
Dalai Lama
92.) If everything is under control, you're not going fast enough.
Mario Andretti
93.) Don’t wish it was easier. Wish you were better.
Jim Rohn
Short Work Anniversary Wishes
94.) You put the “extra” in extraordinary! Well done.
95.) It's your Workiversary — I'm telling you now, take the rest of the day off!
96.) Bravo — we are thankful for your daily presence.
98.) You've always put the team first; now it's our turn to put you #1.
99.) Hey, now, you're an All-Star, and always have been!
100.) Congratulations on another year of incredibly valuable contributions.
101.) Just want to say, “Working with you is AWESOME!”
102.) Wishing you another year of wild success!
How to use These Work Anniversary Messages and Quotes
Now that you have an extensive supply of Work Anniversary Messages and Quotes, what’s the best way to use them? Here are some suggestions that may be helpful as you recognize that exceptional employee:
B.) A personal note (bonus points if it’s hand-written) is always a nice gesture, even if the message is contained in a card. You can also send a personal note along with flowers or a plant for the employee’s desk (this could work for a boss too).
C.) Putting the Happy Work Anniversary message on a sheet cake is a great way to share the day with the whole office. I mean, who doesn’t love cake? Try to find a shorter message because you want the cake maker to be able to fit it all on.
Finishing Touches
D.) Put a Happy Work anniversary message on a Coffee Mug, T-Shirt, or a single trophy. Again, a shorter message is more appropriate to fit these smaller spaces.
F.) Search for an engaging photo of the employee in the corporate archives and use a Happy Work Anniversary message as your caption.
H.) Throw a themed party if the employee has a particular hobby, like cooking, or a favorite pastime like playing with his/her dog, throw a themed party. The entire company can cook with a chef or bring their dogs to work. It’s sure to please the crowd.
Tips for an Effective Happy Work Anniversary Message
a.) Have your card on the recipient's desk when he or she walks in that morning.
b.) Classy move: Accompany the card with a hot drink – coffee, tea, or hot chocolate – of recipient's choice.
c.) Classy move 2: Invite the recipient to lunch that day.
d.) If the person is really important to you, don't be afraid to deliver your own card along with the “office” card. It will show you care.
e.) Personalize the message and quotes above with real-life details on how the person has helped you.
f.) If you can think of enough reasons, match a list of things you like about the person's work style with the number of years employed, e.g. For a 10 Year Work Anniversary, ” consider, “Ten Things That Make You Indispensable.”
May you all have many enjoyable work anniversaries until you retire early to a tropical island.
By Tim Moodie
Tim Moodie is a freelance copywriter and creative director. He spent many years writing funny messages for greeting cards, coffee mugs, and toilet paper for Recycled Paper Products. More money is now spent on the candles than the cake for Tim's work anniversaries.
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