What to include in a retirement card

February 20, 2017

 

Every day, people work hard to provide for themselves and their families with the intention of retiring one day. As the baby boomer generation gets older, there will be a number of retirement celebrations in the near future. A retirement card is a staple gift for these occasions, and it’s important to know what to consider before you start writing in it. Here are a few considerations to include in a retirement card:

1. Achievements

Over time, workers rack up a number of milestones and achievements that are worth recognizing in their retirement card. Perhaps they saved a project, brought on a major client or played a pivotal part in a business venture. As Desktop Supplies noted, thinking of these accomplishments should be easy, especially if the employee has been with the company for a lengthy period of time. Highlight how they’ve improved within the work environment as well as their contributions to the organization.

2. Relationships

“Saying something meaningful about your relationship with the retiree can go a long way.”

Co-workers often become close through team projects, social gatherings and other interactions. Saying something meaningful about your relationship with the retiree can go a long way. Perhaps you became good friends, or the retiree always had your back in a managerial role. These types of connections can impact what you write and the amount of sentimentality within your message. A personalized thank-you note delving into the journey that the retiree and co-workers took together can create a significant keepsake, according to U.S. News.

3. Humor

Retirement can be bittersweet for many individuals. It’s important to not only recognize all of their contributions, but to also inject some spirit and humor into your message. Perhaps there are inside jokes the two of you have, or funny memories that you made over the years. Referencing his or her favorite movie, show or song can also bring a little humor into the card. Recalling these instances makes the card more personal and brings a smile to the retiree’s face.

Retirement cards are a chance for you to recognize an employee’s contributions to the business as well as the relationships his or she built. Including these details can turn a generic card into something more personal and meaningful, creating a true keepsake. With these considerations, you can praise an employee’s years of hard work and send him or her off on the right foot to the next phase in his or her life.