Work anniversaries may become a rare occasion in the future. With the average tenure of employees steadily decreasing over the last decade, work anniversaries are an increasingly important milestone for employees.
As such, they should be celebrated.
But, how can we extend our warm wishes and congratulations to our coworkers on their work anniversaries?
In this blog post, we’ll share creative ways to:
- Congratulate your coworkers on their anniversaries,
- Explore why it’s essential to celebrate these moments, and
- Offer tips for crafting the perfect message.
Let’s start!
Table of Contents
What is a work anniversary?
A work anniversary is a date that marks the start of an employee’s job at a company. Many companies celebrate their employees’ work anniversaries with parties, gifts, or other celebrations.
However, even if your company doesn’t do anything special to celebrate work anniversaries, sending a message to congratulate your colleagues is a nice way to bond and celebrate achievements.
Let’s look at some examples of the best work anniversary messages.
The best ‘Happy work anniversary’ messages
Firstly, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best general work anniversary wishes you can use in many different situations.
“Congratulations on reaching [number] years with our team! I truly appreciate your dedication and hard work. Here’s to many more years of achievement together!”
“Happy work anniversary! Your commitment and passion for what you do are truly commendable. Wishing you continued success in your career.”
“Celebrating [number] years of collaboration! Your contributions have made our team great, and we look forward to many more years of shared success.”
“Time flies when you’re having a great time! Congratulations on [number] years of outstanding service. Your commitment and positive attitude inspire us all.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your professionalism and dedication are a valuable asset to our team. Thank you for the incredible [number] years of hard work and commitment.”
“Cheers to [number] years of accomplishments and milestones! Your commitment to great work has set a high standard for all of us. I wish you continued success and growth with our team.”
“Congratulations on your work anniversary! Your passion, hard work, and dedication have been instrumental in our success. Looking forward to achieving even greater things together!”
“Wishing you a happy [number]th work anniversary! Your efforts and commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed. Here’s to more shared achievements and successes.”
“Happy work anniversary! Thank you for [number] years of dedication and hard work. We are grateful to have you on board.”
Simple work anniversary wishes
If you need a short and simple work anniversary message, here are some examples:
“Happy work anniversary! Cheers to another year of growth and success.”
“Congratulations on your work anniversary! Your dedication is truly appreciated.”
“Celebrating [number] years of your valuable contributions to our team. Thank you!”
“Wishing you a happy work anniversary and continued success in your career.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your hard work and commitment are an inspiration to us all.”
“Congratulations on another year of achievements. Here’s to many more!”
“Thank you for [number] years of dedication. Your input is invaluable to us.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your positive influence makes our team stronger.”
“Cheers to your work anniversary! Your efforts are key to our success.”
“Congrats on [number] years with us! Your hard work does not go unnoticed.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your contributions have made a significant difference.”
“Celebrating the milestone of [number] years with gratitude for your hard work.”
‘Happy 1st work anniversary’ messages
The first work anniversary is a big milestone for everyone. It celebrates an employee’s successful integration into a team and is the first big milestone.
Here are some examples of 1st work anniversary messages to celebrate this big achievement:
“Hey [colleague’s name], can’t believe it’s been a year already! Cheers to your first work anniversary – your positive energy has been a game-changer for the team!”
“Happy 1st work anniversary! Time flies when you’re having fun, and your presence has made it an awesome year for all of us.”
“One year down, many more to go! Happy work anniversary, and thanks for making our workplace a better one.”
“Congrats on hitting the one-year mark! Your hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed – looking forward to more great times ahead.”
“Happy first anniversary at [company name]! Your dedication and enthusiasm are truly appreciated. Here’s to many more years of success together.”
“It’s been an incredible year with you on the team! Happy work anniversary – looking forward to more shared successes and milestones.”
“Cheers to you on your 1st work anniversary! Your positive impact and hard work make each day better for all of us.”
“Happy work anniversary! Time to celebrate your first year, and here’s to many more filled with achievements and growth.”
“One year and counting – congrats on your work anniversary! Your presence has made our team stronger and we’re lucky to have you.”
“Happy 1st work anniversary! Thanks for being an awesome colleague and making our workplace a great one. Here’s to many more years together!”
“Congratulations on your first year with [company name]! Your dedication has been a driving force for the team. Looking forward to even more success ahead.”
‘Happy 5th work anniversary’ messages
The next big milestone for a team member is the 5th work anniversary.
Congratulate your colleague with any of the messages below and you will surely make their work anniversary a great one:
“Hey [colleague’s name], high-five for hitting the 5-year mark! Your dedication and hard work have been the backbone of our success. Here’s to many more years of rocking it together!”
“Happy 5th work anniversary! Can you believe it’s been that long? Looking forward to the next 5 years of greatness!”
“It’s been another amazing year of working with you! Your dedication and hard work make a significant impact, and we’re grateful for your ongoing commitment to excellence.”
“Congratulations on reaching the 5-year milestone! Your commitment and contributions have shaped our success, and we’re lucky to have you on the team. Cheers to even more fantastic years ahead!”
“Wow, has it been 5 years already? Time really does fly when you’re surrounded by awesome colleagues like you. Happy work anniversary! Your hard work and dedication inspire me every day.”
“Happy 5th work anniversary! Your dedication to excellence and teamwork have made these years special. Here’s to the countless successes we’ve shared and the many more to come!”
“Happy 5th work anniversary, [colleague’s name]. Your commitment to our team’s success is truly commendable and I’m grateful to have you as a colleague.”
“Another year, another achievement! Your work and commitment have helped shape a positive work environment, and we’re lucky to have you on our team.”
“Celebrating half a decade of excellence with you! Happy 5th work anniversary – your hard work and positive spirit continue to make our team as amazing as it is.”
“Happy work anniversary! 5 years of your incredible contributions have made our team stronger. Here’s to the journey so far and the exciting adventures ahead!”
“Celebrating 5 fantastic years with an amazing colleague like you! Happy work anniversary! Your hard work and positive attitude make our workplace a better one each day.”
“Time really does fly when you’re having a great time. Happy 5th work anniversary! Your dedication and teamwork have been essential to our shared success.”
“Happy work anniversary! 5 years of your expertise and enthusiasm have been a driving force for our team. Looking forward to many more years of collaboration and achievements!”
“Happy work anniversary – your continuous commitment to our team’s success is truly appreciated. Here’s to the next chapter of accomplishments!”
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‘Happy 10th work anniversary’ messages
A decade is an incredible occasion for both the team member in question and the organization. It signals mutual satisfaction and respect.
Here’s how you can congratulate a team member on this huge milestone:
“Congratulations on a decade of dedication! Your 10 years of hard work and commitment have set a standard for us all. Here’s to the next chapter of success!”
“Wishing you a happy 10th work anniversary! Your professionalism and expertise have been invaluable to our team. Thank you for a decade of excellence.”
“Congratulations on your 10th work anniversary! Your years of service and commitment to excellence continue to create a positive work environment for everyone.”
“Happy 10th work anniversary! Your leadership and unwavering commitment have played a vital role in our collective achievements. Here’s to the continued journey of success!”
“A decade of excellence – congratulations on your 10th work anniversary! Your contributions have been integral to our success, and we look forward to many more years together.”
“Celebrating a decade of great work with you! Happy 10th work anniversary. Your dedication and professionalism continue to inspire us all.”
“Hey [colleague’s name], can you believe it’s been 10 years? Time flies when you’re having fun! Happy work anniversary, and thanks for making our workplace awesome!”
“Double digits! Happy 10th work anniversary! Your positivity and hard work make this team great. Here’s to more laughs and achievements in the years ahead.”
“Cheers to a decade of awesomeness! Happy work anniversary! Your expertise is a great addition to our team, and I can’t wait to see what the next 10 years bring.”
“Happy 10th work anniversary! Can you believe it? Thanks for making our workplace feel like a second home. Here’s to the next decade of greatness together!”
“A whole decade of putting up with us – you deserve a medal! Happy work anniversary, [colleague’s name]! Thanks for being an incredible part of the team.”
“Happy 10th work anniversary! Here’s to a decade of achievements and many more to come!”
“Celebrating 10 years of excellence with you! Cheers to a decade of success!”
“Congratulations on a decade of hard work and dedication! Happy 10th work anniversary!”
“Happy work anniversary! 10 years of your hard work have made our team great.”
‘Happy 20th work anniversary’ messages
If a 10th work anniversary is impressive, imagine what a 20th anniversary feels like. It’s an incredible feat and one that should be celebrated.
Here’s how you can wish your colleague a happy 20th work anniversary:
“Congratulations on an impressive 20-year milestone! Your 2 decades of dedication and expertise have been invaluable to our success. Here’s to you!”
“Happy 20th work anniversary! Your contributions and expertise have been instrumental in our collective achievements. Here’s to the remarkable journey and continued success.”
“Celebrating 20 years of your service! Your leadership and contributions have left an indelible mark on our organization. Thank you for 2 decades of commitment.”
“Congratulations on reaching the 20-year mark! Your continuous commitment to great work sets a high standard. Here’s to 2 decades of success and many more to come!”
“Hey [colleague’s name], 2 decades of putting up with us – you’re a legend! Happy work anniversary, and thanks for making our team awesome for 20 years!”
“Twenty years of work, laughter, and greatness! Happy work anniversary! Your positive energy has made our workplace better. Here’s to more amazing years ahead.”
“Cheers to 20 years! Happy work anniversary! Your dedication and hard work make our team shine. Here’s to more memories and successes!”
“Happy 20th work anniversary! Can you believe it’s been 2 decades? Thanks for being a fantastic colleague and making our workplace feel like family.”
“A whopping 20 years with us — you’re a legend! Happy work anniversary, [colleague’s name]! Here’s to more years of success and camaraderie.”
“Congratulations on reaching this extraordinary milestone! Your years of working with us have set the bar for commitment, engagement, and excellence in everything you do.”
“Happy 20th work anniversary! Two decades of your brilliance have made a lasting impact on our team.”
“Celebrating 20 years of excellence today! Cheers to an amazing journey and continued success!”
“Congratulations on 20 years of hard work and dedication! Happy work anniversary!”
“Happy work anniversary! It’s an incredible milestone to celebrate. I wish you all the best in the years to come.”
“Wishing a happy 20th work anniversary to an incredible colleague! Here’s to many more years of success!”
Work anniversary messages for employees
If you’re a boss or manager looking for ways to congratulate your team members on their work anniversaries, we have some examples for you:
“Congratulations on reaching [number] years with our company! Your dedication and hard work are not going unnoticed. Thank you for your continued commitment.”
“Happy work anniversary! It’s been [number] years of collaboration and achievements. We look forward to many more years of success together.”
“Celebrating your work anniversary is a joyous occasion for the entire team. Your hard work and expertise have been invaluable. Here’s to [number] years of shared accomplishments and growth.”
“Wishing you a happy work anniversary! Your dedication to our goals and your positive impact on the team have not gone unnoticed. Thank you for [number] years of exceptional work.”
“Congratulations on [number] years with our organization! Your hard work, commitment, and leadership have made a lasting difference. Looking forward to more years of collaboration and success.”
“Congratulations on your work anniversary! Your years of service have truly helped foster a positive and engaging work environment we all appreciate.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your tenure of [number] years has been marked by excellence and innovation. Thank you for your continued dedication to our team’s success.”
“On your work anniversary, I want to express my appreciation for your hard work and dedication. Your contributions over the past [number] years have been integral to our growth and success. Thank you.”
“Congratulations on [number] years with us! Your commitment to great work sets a high standard for our team. Here’s to more years of achievements and shared success.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your hard work and dedication have played a key role in our company’s success over the past [number] years. Thank you for your continued commitment to our mission.”
“Wishing you an amazing work anniversary! Your [number] years of service have been marked by professionalism and dedication. We are very lucky to have you on our team.”
“Congratulations on [number] years with our company! Your hard work, passion, and leadership have been pivotal to our success. Looking forward to achieving new milestones together in the coming years.”
💡 Pumble Pro Tip
Acknowledging and celebrating your team member’s milestones is important if you want to be a good manager. To learn more about what makes a good manager and get some actionable tips on how to become a great one, read our blog post:
Work anniversary wishes to colleagues
As a team member, it’s important to build connections and relationships with other team members and celebrate their achievements.
Here are some more examples of work anniversary messages for your colleagues:
“Congratulations on reaching [number] years with our team! Your commitment to excellence has been a driving force in our success.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your continued commitment and positive attitude over the years have contributed so much to our team’s success. Here’s to more milestones ahead!”
“Happy work anniversary! Your hard work, dedication, and professionalism are truly appreciated. Here’s to more years of collaboration.”
“Celebrating another year of your dedication and contributions! Your passion and commitment to excellence are what make this such a positive work environment.”
“Wishing you a joyful work anniversary. Your contributions over the past [number] years have been integral to our team’s success. You’re a great colleague.”
“Celebrating your work anniversary is a testament to your dedication and valuable contributions to our team. Here’s to [number] years of excellence.”
“Congratulations on [number] years with our team. I value how dedicated and hard-working you are. You’re great to have on the team.”
“Wishing you a happy work anniversary! Your ongoing dedication and commitment to excellence continue to inspire a positive work culture. Thank you for all you do!”
“Happy work anniversary! Your professionalism and positive attitude have made our team great. Here’s to more years of shared accomplishments.”
“On your work anniversary, I want to express my appreciation for your hard work and commitment. Your contributions over the past [number] years have been outstanding.”
“Happy work anniversary, [colleague’s name]! Can’t believe it’s been [number] years already. Your positivity and dedication to teamwork make every day better for us. Here’s to many more years!”
“Cheers to you on your work anniversary! Your humor, dedication, and hard work bring so much to our team. Looking forward to more shared successes and laughter ahead.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your friendship and support have made our workplace feel like a second home. Here’s to many more years of incredible moments together.”
“Happy work anniversary, [colleague’s name]! Your kindness and dedication have been a constant source of inspiration. Here’s to more years of working and achieving great things together.”
“Wishing you a great work anniversary! Here’s to many more years of shared accomplishments.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your talents and contributions have been a breath of fresh air for our team. Here’s to more years of creativity and success.”
“Celebrating your work anniversary is a team event. Your warmth, dedication, and friendship have made the office a better place. Here’s to [number] years!”
💡 Pumble Pro Tip
Acknowledging and celebrating your colleagues’ accomplishments is vital for a successful and connected team. To learn more about how to congratulate your colleagues, read our blog post:
Work anniversary wishes to boss
Many employees feel uncomfortable with any type of upward communication. However, it’s an important skill to master if you want to maintain a positive relationship with your higher-ups.
A thoughtful work anniversary message can be a stepping stone to a stronger relationship with your boss. Here are some examples:
“Congratulations on your work anniversary! Your leadership and guidance have been instrumental in our team’s success. Wishing you continued achievements in the years ahead.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your strategic vision and dedication have led our team to great things. Here’s to another year of excellence under your leadership.”
“Celebrating your [number]th work anniversary today! Your unwavering commitment and managerial prowess are the power behind our team’s success. Here’s to [number] years!”
“Wishing you a happy work anniversary! Your leadership has inspired us all to strive for excellence. Looking forward to many more years of your valuable guidance.”
“Congratulations on [number] years of exceptional leadership! Your vision and commitment to excellence are amazing. Here’s to more successful years ahead.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your insights and dedication to our team have played a pivotal role in our success. Thank you for [number] years of great leadership.”
“On your work anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your leadership and commitment to our team. Wishing you continued success in the coming years.”
“Here’s to another year of hard work and commitment! Your contribution to maintaining a positive work environment has not gone unnoticed, and we appreciate all that you do.”
“Congratulations on your work anniversary! Your professionalism and dedication to our team are truly commendable. Here’s to many more years of shared accomplishments.”
“Happy work anniversary, [boss’ name]! Your leadership style has made our team stronger, and your support means a lot. Cheers to [number] years of growth and collaboration.”
“Celebrating your work anniversary is a reminder of the incredible leader you are. Your mentorship has been invaluable to my professional journey. Here’s to more years of learning from the best!”
“Wishing you a happy work anniversary! Your guidance and support have been a driving force in my career. Thank you for being an inspiring leader and mentor.”
“Happy work anniversary! Your leadership has created a positive and motivating work environment. I’m grateful to be a part of your team, and looking forward to more successful years ahead.”
“Congratulations on [number] years of leadership excellence! Your dedication and encouragement have been a source of inspiration for us all. Here’s to more years of collaboration and success.”
“Happy work anniversary, [boss’ name]! Your leadership has not only shaped my professional path but also created a sense of unity within our team. Here’s to many more years of shared success.”
“Wishing you a fantastic work anniversary! Your leadership has not only achieved business goals but also fostered a positive and inclusive team culture. Cheers to more years of success together.”
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3 Tips on how to write a work anniversary message
Writing a thoughtful and professional work anniversary message doesn’t have to be hard.
Just remember to:
- Personalize it,
- Highlight accomplishments, and
- Remain positive.
We’ll go over these tips in more detail.
Tip #1: Personalize your work anniversary message
It’s essential to personalize your work anniversary message to make sure it’s sincere and tailored to the individual.
You can easily personalize your work anniversary message by:
- Sharing an inside joke or reference,
- Including their name in the message,
- Mentioning shared accomplishments or experiences, or
- Highlighting certain achievements.
We talked to Rick Joi, an Author, Speaker, and Researcher at the Workiversary Group, about his opinion on work anniversaries. He explained that including shared memories and experiences can be a great way to connect with team members:
“If you work close enough with them that you have shared experiences, share your favorite memory with them from the past year. Sometimes the memory is funny, sometimes it’s heartwarming, but, whatever it is, it can be a great bonding experience to remember good shared experiences.”
Personalizing your work anniversary wishes will ensure they transcend mere formality and convey your warm wishes and appreciation.
Tip #2: Highlight some milestones/achievements
In line with personalization comes the appreciation for the milestones and achievements your colleague has had with the company.
This can be a powerful motivator for team members to continue to excel. Expressing your appreciation for their hard work and your awe of their achievements will instill confidence and pride, motivating them to continue their hardworking efforts.
Highlighting milestones and achievements can come in the form of:
- Adding the number of years of their anniversary,
- Including specific accomplishments they had along the way,
- Referencing positive feedback they’ve received, or
- Including client testimonials of their dedication and great work.
Recognizing your colleagues’ hard work and accomplishments will make for a more positive work environment and send a clear message that their work is valued.
Tip #3: Be positive and supportive
Lastly, make sure your work anniversary message is always uplifting and supportive.
Don’t include any negative talk or mention any uncomfortable topics in your message. For example, steer clear of any sarcastic statements or jokes you’re not sure will land.
Joi also agrees that work anniversary messages should be focused on the positive:Joi also agrees that work anniversary messages should be focused on the positive:
“Work anniversaries are most meaningful when they celebrate shared purpose rather than time passing. That is, don’t celebrate that the employee neither got fired nor found a better opportunity for yet another year. Instead, celebrate that for the past year, the employee and the organization were joined together working towards a common purpose that makes the world better!”
Therefore, remain professional and polite, and always focus on the positive.
💡 Pumble Pro Tip
A healthy and effective workplace relies on positive communication. If you want to learn more about why positive communication is important, and how you can be a more positive communicator, read our blog post:
Why should you send a work anniversary message?
Congratulating a colleague on a work anniversary is a professional way to strengthen your relationship and show appreciation for their work, as Joi shared:
“It is definitely professional to congratulate your colleagues on their work anniversaries. It’s a thoughtful gesture that shows you value them and the work they do.”
He also highlights the importance of reflecting on our peers’ contributions to our own lives:
“Work anniversaries celebrate the many unique and varied ways in which we contribute to each other’s lives in an indescribably beautiful web of interconnectedness.”
Therefore, in his opinion, sending a happy work anniversary message has a twofold purpose:
“The obvious answer to why we should celebrate work anniversaries is because it’s kind and makes the other person feel good.
The less obvious answer is that it’s an opportunity for us to reflect on how dependent we are on each other’s work and to strengthen our sense of gratitude for the magic of how millions of people do some sort of work that has an impact on our lives every single day.”
However, not every work anniversary celebration is created equal. When it comes to LinkedIn, Joi believes that it may not always be the most appropriate way to congratulate your colleagues on their work anniversaries:
“Clicking the congratulate button on LinkedIn for someone you barely know at some point during their work anniversary month — LinkedIn doesn’t know the exact day — is not professional. Don’t do that!”
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Celebrate work anniversaries with Pumble
To skip out on that awkward and impersonal LinkedIn work anniversary celebration, try out Pumble.
Pumble is a team communication app that allows you to collaborate with colleagues and stay connected to your team.
You can congratulate your team members privately via direct messages, or start a thread to include everyone in the celebration.
You can also schedule your message in advance, to make sure you never forget to wish your colleagues happy work anniversaries.
If you are a fan of real-time communication, you can also extend your well wishes via audio or video call.So, if you’re interested to see what Pumble is all about — try Pumble for free today!
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