93 Happy Work Anniversary Wishes and Messages For a Card

The average full-time worker works five days a week for about eight hours. On top of that, there are commute times and work tasks that need to be completed outside of working hours. With so many hours of one’s life being dedicated to their employment, how someone interacts with their job is a lot like a relationship.  

Just as an interpersonal relationship fluctuates between good and bad days, so does one’s relationship with their job. So, as you would celebrate each year of a successful relationship, celebrating a work anniversary recognizes another full year of commitment and resilience despite the natural challenges of employment.

As part of the celebration, you might find yourself needing to write a message in a work anniversary card for a colleague. The great thing about a work anniversary message is that it can be anything you want it to be. They can be funny, inspirational, simple, or a way to express gratitude for your coworker. It is really up to you to decide on what kind of message you want to write.

Because your message can say a variety of things, it can be difficult to know where to start. Need a bit of inspiration for your message? We’re ready to help you find the perfect work anniversary message to get you started. Below is a curated list of 93 of the best happy work anniversary messages for your situation.

One-Year Work Anniversary Messages

The first year in any job is full of training, mistakes, and learning. So, when someone makes the one-year mark, It is worth celebrating the fact they overcame the learning curve and didn’t decide to give up. Here are 11 one-year work anniversary messages:

• “We are so happy to have had you on the team this year. We are excited to see what you will do in the years to come”
• “Has it been a year already? Seems like just yesterday I was training you, and now you may be better than me, maybe”
• “One successful year down, countless more to go.”
• “Consider this your one-year-cheer. Woo-hoo!”
• “Happy first work anniversary! Looking forward to a 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and more!”
• “This was the 1st year of your growth. Your dedication and contributions have made you an essential asset to our team. Happy Work Anniversary!”
• “Congratulations on your first year here! Your hard work and dedication have made you an asset to our team. Here’s to more achievements and growth.”
• “Here is to the 1st year of your professional growth. Your dedication and contributions have made you an essential asset to our team. Happy Work Anniversary!”
• “This is the first of many happy milestones. Congratulations on reaching one year!”
• “Today marks your one-year work anniversary, but it feels like you have been here forever. We are so happy to have you as part of our team!”
• “Happy work anniversary! Seeing how much you’ve evolved in only a year has been amazing. It’s a pleasure to work with you, and I’m excited to get to know you more in the next year. Thank you for all the great work. Happy anniversary.”

5-year Work Anniversary Messages

Five years working at the same place is becoming increasingly uncommon. These messages are sure to honor the dedication of your colleague to their job.

• “You have never stopped amazing us with the highest level of perfectionism that you put into your work. It’s already been five years since you started working, and we are grateful to you for all your incredible years of work. Wishing you a happy fifth work anniversary.”
• “Your selfless service and dedication towards your team is highly appreciated. The things you have done so far are highly valued. Thank you for completing 5 years with us!”
• “Your level of commitment to our organization has been unwavering. Thank you for being an exceptional part of our team. Cheers to your Five years of excellence!”
• “In your 5 years of service, you have given our organization much more than effort and hard work on the job. You have taught everyone the lesson of loyalty and staying motivated in the long run. Today is your day to celebrate. Today it’s your work anniversary!”
• “Congratulations on your five-year work anniversary! It’s been a pleasure to share this journey with you as both a coworker and a friend. I am looking forward to continuing to work together. Thank you for your positive attitude and for being such an awesome team player!”
• “Thank you for five years of dedication, hard work, and lots of laughter. You make the workplace brighter and have helped us achieve so many goals, from [example of contribution] to [example of contribution]. We are grateful to celebrate this milestone with you.”
• “Wow! Five years. What a journey of triumphs, trials, and celebration. Thank you for going above and beyond. Your skills, ideas, and talents have been instrumental in our growth. Happy work anniversary!”
• “Five years —what a major accomplishment! You should be proud of what you’ve helped build. Here’s to more success in the future!”
• “Woah! You just reached 5 years today. Thanks for spending a significant part of your career with us. We’re better because of you!”
• “Time flies when you’re having fun—or at least it did for me. Thanks for making work not feel like work. Congrats on your 5-year work anniversary.”

10-year Work Anniversary Messages

Ten years with the same organization is an impressive feat. This important milestone deserves to be recognized with a good message that highlights all of their contributions to the workplace. Here are some quality options:

• “Happy 10-year workiversary! You’ve been a game-changer here, and I couldn’t imagine the business without you.”
• “Congrats on an entire decade of success! Thanks for all you’ve done for the company and your colleagues.”
• “Wow, 10 years! Congratulations on reaching this huge milestone. You’ve experienced so many changes here in the past decade, and you’ve navigated them all with grace and skill. Thank you for your invaluable contributions to our team and organization. You are an inspiration!”
• “Congratulations on your 10-year work anniversary. You’ve helped make this company what it is today through your contributions in the past decade. From taking [department/project] to the next level to always showing up with a smile, you bring so much value to the table. Thank you for your passion and commitment.”
• “You’ve been with us for a decade, and your fingerprints are everywhere! You’ve made this company what it is today, and we wouldn’t be here without you. Thank you for your time, dedication, and invaluable service.”
• “Working with you has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life! I’m so honored to have had the chance to meet you and work with you on different projects over the years. You’ve taught me a lot and inspired me to bring my best self to work every day. Congratulations on ten years!”
• “Happy ten-year anniversary! It’s no wonder that you’ve been here for ten years. You are a catch with amazing skills, talent, and wisdom. You’ve made this company what it is today. Thank you for all you’ve done and continue to do!”
• “Entering double digits is no small deal. Happy workiversary!”
• “Ten years have passed since you were hired, and I have not regretted a single day since. Happy anniversary!”
• “Congratulations on your 10th work anniversary! With your expertise and willingness to lead by example, you deserve this recognition. Congratulations on your accomplishment.”
• “It’s tough to stay put in the same place for a very long time. However, maybe the word ‘Tough’ wasn’t in your dictionary, and you have sailed with us through all the harsh and good times. My heartfelt wishes for your work anniversary.”

30-year Work Anniversary Messages

Wow, 30 years? That is an accomplishment in any setting. Chances are someone celebrating a 30th work anniversary has seen a company have times of success and times of failure, and they’ve stuck through it all. For an anniversary message worthy of their 30 years, try one of these:  

• “You have completed three decades of service as one of our esteemed employees, and we are gratified and privileged to have you as part of this organization. Thank you for staying with us all these years, and once again, happy work anniversary.”
• “Today, we honor your three decades of exceptional service. Your hard work, perseverance, and loyalty have shaped our organization’s identity. Here’s to your incredible journey of 30 years with us!”
• “On this 30th work anniversary, we want you to know that you are our most valuable team member. Thank you for your dedication and hard work over the years. Congratulations.”
• “You are a source of inspiration and positivity which makes these 30 years colorful, fun, and full of success. Happy 30th work anniversary to you.”
• “Everyone at work considers themselves fortunate to have you on their team. More than your wrinkles and white hair, these 30 years show us your success and achievements. Congratulations on your 30th year of employment.”
• “We are grateful to have someone like you as one of our employees. You have stood by our side through thick and thin for over three decades. Congratulations on your achievement, and convey my best wishes on your work anniversary.”
• “On this day, 30 years ago, you chose us and dedicated your selfless service to this organization. Thank you for your perseverance and trust. With you by our side, we are confident in achieving even the highest goals.”
• “30 years down, now let’s go for twenty more! Ok, maybe not. How about “How soon is retirement?”
• “Huh? This isn’t your retirement party? Congratulations on 30 years with the company. I don’t think any of us would know how to function without you.”
• “You’ve seen more of this company than almost anyone. Thank you for dedicating your professional life to bettering [company name]. Happy 30 years!”

Short and Sweet Work Anniversary Messages

Sometimes all the situation needs is a simple message. Work anniversary wishes don’t need to be long to be sweet. Here are some quick and simple things to say in a work anniversary card: 

• “You’re like the Swiss Army knife of our team—you can do anything! Thanks for all your hard work and dedication. Happy anniversary!”
• “Congrats on your milestone. You are so appreciated on this team!”
• “Best wishes as you continue to build your career with our team! Happy work anniversary!”
• “Once upon a time, a new employee started working here, and the company was never the same. Happy work anniversary!”
• “Happy workiversary to the hardest working person I know!”
• “Happy workiversary to the most gracious team player I know!”
• “Congratulations on another year with the company! Your dedication and hard work are truly appreciated. I look forward to many more years of working together”
• “Wishing a wonderful work anniversary and much-continued success to a valuable employee.”
• “Here’s wishing the happiest of work anniversaries to someone who’s more than just a committed employee but also a cherished member of our team.”
• Congrats on your amazing [number] year. You’ve set a high bar—can’t wait to see what you do in year [number].”
• “Our team is “our team” because of you. We’re grateful for you! Happy work anniversary!”

Character-Based Work Anniversary Messages

It’s no secret that work can be demoralizing at times, especially when working with unhappy customers. A perfect way to combat work challenges is to talk about the characteristics that make the recipient great. Here are some character-based messages sure to boost their confidence:

• “Every workplace needs someone who stands out from the rest and inspires everyone. Thank you for being that person, and we are proud of you and everything you have done so far. Happy work anniversary!”
• “Some champions never give up and strive to deliver the best. We are glad you are one of them and have come a long way with us. May you achieve new heights this year and continue to thrive.”
• “Happy work anniversary to someone who can always be counted on to bring first-class professionalism to the workplace and who is an incredibly valuable asset to our whole team.”
• “Hard work, loyalty, and diligence make the best employees, and I’m glad you’re a person we can rely on. It’s your work anniversary today, and I couldn’t have thought of any better moment to appreciate you and wish you good luck in all your future endeavors.”
• “It’s not an easy task to find someone like you who is determined to achieve goals. On this day, you took our goals as your own. Thank you for everything that you are doing for us. We wish to continue seeing you grow with us.”
• “Your unwavering commitment and tireless efforts are truly inspiring. Your contributions have been essential to our growth and success, and we are grateful for all you have done.”

Work Anniversary Messages for Leaders

A good leader can make all of the difference in how you experience work. On their work anniversary, be sure to show your good leaders how much you appreciate their efforts with one of these messages:

• “Happy work anniversary! It’s been great having you as my manager. Wishing you a wonderful day.”
• “Management isn’t easy, but you make it seem effortless. Thanks for all that you do.”
• “I am so proud to be on your team. You inspire so many to go the extra mile. Congrats on this terrific milestone!”
• “Dear boss, your brilliance comes to mind when I think of all your company contributions and what you’ve done for me. Congratulations on surviving another year in the jungle.”
• “Wishing you a happy work anniversary and a heartfelt thank you for your guidance and mentorship over the last year. Your leadership has helped me grow both personally and professionally.”
• “We’re so thankful for the talent, positivity, and ambition that you bring to our team. Thank you for working hard for another year!”
• “Every employee wishes for an empathetic leader and a great listener. We found both of these in you. Congratulations, and thank you for completing another year with us.”
• “It’s been an incredible journey working under your guidance. Your commitment to our team’s success is evident in every achievement. Best wishes on your work anniversary!”
• “If I accomplish half of what you have in your time here so far, I will consider it a success. Best wishes.”
• “Happy work anniversary to the boss who never forgets our workiversaries!”
• “Wishing you a happy work anniversary and a sincere thank you for all you do. You truly make a difference in the lives of those you lead, including mine! Thank you for bringing out the best in us.“
• “Best wishes to an incredible leader who has gone above and beyond to lead our team over the past year. Have the happiest of work anniversaries, and may you enjoy many more to come.”

Funny Work Anniversary Messages

Does your message have to be serious? Absolutely not! Depending on the recipient, a funny work anniversary message or meme can be a great addition to their day. Here are some funny messages you could include:

• “Congrats on another year of being an all-star employee! Let’s party like it’s 1999 (or at least like it’s Friday at 5 p.m.).”
• “You’re a wizard at your job! Keep up the great work, and let’s celebrate like the Hogwarts crew after a Quidditch win!”
• “As Stanley on The Office says, “If I don’t have some cake soon, I might die.” C’mon, let’s cut the cake already for your anniversary!”
• “I will never know how you stay here so long and still stay sane. Thanks for sticking it out in the madhouse with us!”
• “You know it’s been another year, right? That means we worked together for around 2,000 more hours (and I loved every minute of it).”
• “We would miss you if you were to leave. However, you are still here, so instead, we will say–happy work anniversary!”
• “I bet you’d hoped we’d forget, or at the very least that you’d forget how long you’ve been here. Nope, happy anniversary.”
• “We bet you don’t remember what you were doing this time last year! You were probably doing the same thing you’re doing right now.”
• “To us, it feels like just yesterday you started working here. To you, I bet it feels like a lifetime.”

Remote Work Anniversary Messages

Even though you aren’t physically together, it is important to celebrate a workiversary in a remote or hybrid workplace. The celebration can be vital in building community within an organization. Here are some messages for remote work you could use:

• “Thank you for all the work you put in, even when the camera is off! Happy work anniversary!”
• “You’re our unseen superhero! Even though I may not see you in person, I can see the great work you do. Happy work Anniversary!”
• “It is hard to be reliable when you work from home, but I know I can always count on you! Happy workiversary.”
• “You’ve set the standard for remote employees everywhere! Happy work anniversary!”
• “I am glad you get to share your office with your [pet], but I think sharing a job with you is pretty great. Thanks for your hard work!”
• “Here is to another year of mic issues. Happy workiversary.”
• “Thank you for all of your help and for connecting with me during work. You make remote work feel a little more personable.”

Inspirational Work Anniversary Quotes

One way to start off your message for a card is by using a work anniversary quote. There are many meaningful quotes out there that can enhance and inspire your anniversary message. These include:

• “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” -John Quincy Adams
• “People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing.” -Dale Carnegie, 
•  “Continuous improvement is better than delayed perfection.” -Mark Twain
• “If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.” -Fred DeVito
• “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is a success.” -Henry Ford
• “Hustle beats talent when talent doesn’t hustle.” -Ross Simmonds

How to Write your Own Work Anniversary Message

While our messages can work well, creating a personalized message can show your appreciation and make the occasion even more special. Writing your own wishes can add a unique flair that makes the milestone even more memorable. Here are some guidelines to help you craft your own work anniversary message:

Writing a Work Anniversary Message: Personal Touch

Share a specific memory or achievement that highlights the impact of your colleague’s work during their tenure. Adding a personal touch can make your message more meaningful.

Writing a Work Anniversary Message: Express Appreciation

Clearly express your gratitude for your colleague’s dedication and accomplishment. Let them know how their presence has positively influenced the team and how much they are valued. Talk about their mentorship or collaborative skills, if applicable.

Writing a Work Anniversary Message: Warm Wishes

Offer warm wishes for their continued success in their career. Whether it’s a one-year milestone or a 10-year work anniversary, convey your hope for their continuous growth and fulfillment in their role.

Writing a Work Anniversary Message: Positive Tone

Keep the tone of your message upbeat and positive. Add fun to your message in a way that appeals to their personality.

Writing a Work Anniversary Message: Sincerity

Be sincere and genuine in your message. Employees can sense authenticity, and it’s important for your colleague to feel the sincerity behind your well wishes.

How Should I Send Work Anniversary Messages?

With work anniversary messages in hand, select the perfect time to brighten their day. Here are some common situations where you might give a work anniversary message:

Work Anniversary Card

Sending a digital card to your colleague is a classic way to show appreciation. Get everyone in the office involved with a larger group card.

Social Media

Recognize your colleague’s work anniversary on platforms like LinkedIn or company social media channels. It’s an easy way to publicly acknowledge their dedication and contributions.

In-Person or Virtually

If your workplace culture encourages it, consider wishing your colleague a happy work anniversary in person or online. A face-to-face interaction can convey your sincerity and warmth.

During a Team Meeting

Take a moment during a team meeting or all-hands to acknowledge your colleague’s work anniversary. It could be a full shout out or a little message in the chat, but it’s a great opportunity to celebrate as a team and show collective appreciation.

Via Email or Messaging Platforms

Sending a thoughtful email or message through internal communication platforms can be a convenient way to express your well wishes. Either a personal Slack message or a post in a larger workiversary channel should do.

Celebrating a Work Anniversary Matters

Whether it is one year or 30, celebrating a work anniversary plays an important part in showing appreciation for your colleagues and employees. By recognizing an employee’s efforts and loyalty, an organization will see an improved company culture.

However, most important of all, well-thought-out work anniversary wishes can make someone feel seen. It can give them a confidence boost as they see recognition for the time and effort within an organization. Celebrating a work anniversary matters. 

If you are collecting signatures on a card as part of your anniversary celebrations, we’d love to be a part of it. By using a Kudoboard, you will be able to easily create a group virtual work anniversary card that the entire office can contribute to at their convenience. Simply select “Create Kudoboard” and get started today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Happy Work Anniversary Messages

Why are work anniversary wishes important?

Work anniversary wishes are important because they show appreciation for an employee’s unwavering dedication and contributions to the company, which can boost morale and motivation. This employee recognition improves productivity and retention rates to create stronger organizations.

Saying “happy work anniversary” also builds culture internally and improves employee engagement. When everyone feels like a part of a larger community, it’s likely to create cycles of appreciation that lead to a greater sense of belonging and positive attitude internally. 

Also, when other employees see a work anniversary celebration in the office or online, they’re inspired to grow and develop their careers. Watching others succeed professionally encourages them to become more loyal and active in their roles.

How far in advance should I send a work anniversary message?

A work anniversary messages is always best sent on their original hire date, but sometimes that’s just not practical. Some years, their anniversary date may fall on a weekend or a holiday, or you may have an internal scheduling conflict.

As a rule of thumb, it’s best to send the happy work anniversary message on the same week as their anniversary. This allows the employee appreciation to be impactful and creates a natural lead up to the event.

If recognizing an anniversary at an all-team meeting or event, make sure to note all anniversaries that occurred between the last meeting and the current one. This creates expectations that shout outs for everyone will occur on a normal schedule.

How can you use happy work anniversary wishes to improve employee engagement?

Leadership and human resources can use work anniversary celebrations to build the bonds that encourage employee engagement. When everyone feels included in moments of recognition and celebration, the team is more likely to invest emotionally in the organization.

Just like a “happy birthday” or “congrats on retirement” message, anniversary wishes encourage everyone to celebrate moments that matter in the workplace. They encourage employees to connect in meaningful ways and create more community and greater culture overall.

To measure the success of anniversary celebration programs, measure engagement through an employee survey. Ask questions about their happiness levels and feelings of belonging to get authentic employee feedback. 

Should i include a gift or incentive with a work anniversary message?

While not required, gifts and incentives make work anniversary messages much more impactful—especially for big milestones like 10-year anniversary. These service awards could be anything from a gift card and SWAG to lunch with an executive or the entire team, depending on budget. Employee rewards are incredibly important pieces of any successful employee experience program, and shouldn’t be undervalued.

With Kudoboard, a colleague can easily attach a gift card to their eCard alongside their work anniversary message. There’s even an option to crowdfund the incentive for teams putting together a group card.

What are some ideas for celebrating a work anniversary?

Celebrating a work anniversary can be either incredibly understated or elaborate—depending on the milestone and budget. Larger anniversaries with unwavering dedication require a much grander scale while smaller events deserve simple messages or nods. 

Some ideas for celebration are:

• Send a work anniversary group card with messages from the entire team
• Host a catered lunch for the team or department
• Gift an extra day of PTO
• Create a work anniversary meme wall in Slack or a group card
• Send a gift bag of SWAG
• Order cookies or cupcakes for the team