Welcome Back to Work Messages: After Parental Leave, Illness or a Sabbatical
Welcome back messages for a coworker returning from maternity or paternity leave, illness, a sabbatical or a long break: warm lines that don't pile on pressure or questions.
Coming back after a long break is its own kind of first day. A welcome-back card should say we missed you, offer help catching up, and ask nothing.
After parental leave
- Welcome back! We’ve missed you. Ease in; there’s no rush.
- So good to have you back. Happy to fill you in on anything that’s changed.
- Welcome back! We hope the little one is doing well.
- The team wasn’t the same without you. Welcome back!
After illness
- Welcome back. It’s really good to see you.
- We’ve missed you. Take things at your own pace.
- So glad you’re back. Let us know if you want help getting up to speed.
After a sabbatical or long holiday
- Welcome back! We want to hear everything.
- Hope it was everything you wanted. Welcome back!
- You look rested. We’ll fix that. Welcome back!
After a difficult time
- Welcome back. We’re glad you’re here.
- Good to see you. We’re here if you need anything.
Funny
- Welcome back! Your inbox has been waiting patiently. (It hasn’t.)
- We kept your desk warm. Mostly with snacks.
- Welcome back! The coffee machine missed you most.
From the team
- Welcome back from all of us!
- The whole team is so happy to have you back.
From a manager
- Welcome back. Let’s catch up when you’re ready, and not before.
- It’s great to have you back. Take the first week to settle in.
Short
- Welcome back!
- Missed you!
- Good to have you back.
What to avoid
- Questions about their health or their baby’s sleep.
- A list of everything that went wrong while they were away.
- “Bet you’re glad to be back!” They may not be, yet.
A card from everyone
Start a free welcome-back card, invite the team by email, and everyone signs with no account. Free to make, sign and send for up to 100 signers.
Frequently asked questions
What do you say to a coworker coming back from maternity leave? Warm and practical: welcome back, ease in, happy to fill you in.
What do you say to a coworker returning after illness? “Welcome back, it’s really good to see you.” No health questions.
More: maternity and paternity leave messages · welcome to the team messages
