35 Birthday Messages to Brighten a Coworker’s Day

Example birthday messages for a new coworker

1. “Happy birthday, [Name]! Even though you’re the newest face in the office, it already feels like you’ve been here forever. Enjoy your day and thanks for bringing fresh energy to our team.”
2. “Glad we get to celebrate your birthday so soon after you joined us. Wishing you a year full of positive vibes and projects that spark your creativity!”
3. “Working with someone as enthusiastic and open-minded as you has been great. May your birthday be just as fun and inspiring as you make our workplace.”
4. “So glad our paths crossed in this new job. Celebrate big today—you deserve it for jumping right into the flow with us.”
5. “Happy birthday to our resident ‘newbie’—though it feels like you’ve been part of the crew for ages. Hope your day is the perfect blend of chill and excitement.”
6. “It’s not every day we get a coworker who clicks so quickly with everyone. Hope your birthday sets the tone for an awesome year ahead!”
7. “You might be new, but you’ve already made a difference here. Have a fantastic birthday—can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll do next!”

Example birthday messages for a close teammate

8. “Happy birthday to our go-to person when things get hectic! You keep us sane, and we appreciate you every day—today’s just extra special.”
9. “Wishing a day filled with the same kindness and positivity you bring to the entire team. Enjoy your birthday, [Name]!”
10. “I’ve lost count of how many times you’ve stepped in to lend a hand. Take a well-deserved break today and celebrate like you mean it.”
11. “Your supportive nature has made even the hardest deadlines feel doable. Hope your birthday is free of any work stress—just pure fun.”
12. “Sending you all the good vibes you usually give us. Have a wonderful birthday, and thanks for always having our backs.”
13. “It’s your turn to receive all the help, appreciation, and kind words. You’ve earned it—happy birthday, [Name]!”
14. “No matter the challenge, you’re always there with a smile and a solution. Today, let’s celebrate you and the awesome spirit you bring.”

Example birthday messages for a longtime colleague

15. “Happy birthday, [Name]! It’s been a journey watching us grow together in this place. Here’s to more years of tackling projects side by side.”
16. “We’ve seen highs, lows, and everything in between, yet you never waver in your dedication. Hope your birthday is a big bright spot in your week.”
17. “Time sure flies when you’re working with someone as dependable as you. Grateful for every shared moment—enjoy your special day."
18. “Another birthday, another reminder of how lucky I am to have you as a colleague. Thanks for sticking around and making work life better.”
19. “Through shifting deadlines and endless meetings, you’ve been the steady force in the team. Wishing you a fantastic birthday that’s all about you.”
20. “Can’t believe how far we’ve come since we first started working together. Have a birthday that’s as memorable as all the milestones we’ve hit!”
21. “Here’s to the colleague who’s become more like a friend over the years. Take time to celebrate yourself today—you’ve more than earned it.”

Example birthday messages for a manager or team lead

22. “Happy birthday to a leader who balances professionalism with genuine care. We appreciate your guidance—today, let us appreciate you!”
23. “You set the tone for our team every day, and it’s a good one. Enjoy your birthday, and thanks for steering us in the right direction.”
24. “Wishing you a year of smooth projects and continued success. We’re lucky to have a boss who truly listens and encourages each of us.”
25. “Sometimes managers forget to celebrate themselves because they’re so busy supporting everyone else. Not today! Your birthday is all about you.”
26. “Your leadership style inspires us to aim higher and keep learning. Hope your special day is packed with every bit of happiness you spread around.”
27. “Thanks for being an awesome mentor and an understanding boss. It’s an honor to celebrate your birthday with you—enjoy every minute!”
28. “Your knack for guiding us through tight deadlines with a calm smile is remarkable. May your birthday bring you the same calm and lots of fun.”

Example birthday messages for a remote coworker

29. “Even though we’re miles apart, I still feel your positive energy in our chats and calls. Happy birthday—wishing you a day of great connection (Wi-Fi included)!”
30. “You might be on the other side of the country, but you’re an integral part of the team. Have a fantastic birthday, and treat yourself to something local and special.”
31. “Distance hasn’t stopped us from collaborating like pros. Thanks for being awesome from afar—enjoy your birthday in your corner of the world!”
32. “Wish I could pop into your office cubicle and drop off a cupcake. Since I can’t, here’s a virtual treat: a heartfelt happy birthday message!”
33. “Grateful for how you bridge the gap with friendly chats and a quick sense of humor. You’ve made remote work feel a lot less remote—happy birthday!”
34. “You may not be physically here, but your impact on our projects is undeniable. Celebrate big today—you deserve it.”
35. “Another year, another reason to be thankful for technology that keeps us connected. Have a wonderful birthday, and I hope we can meet in person soon!”

Even in a professional setting, a handwritten card can outshine a quick Slack message or an email blast. Here’s how PenPals helps:

• Delivers a Personal Touch:
  In a world of office memos and digital pings, a physical handwritten birthday note is a welcome surprise that stands out on someone’s desk.‍
• No Writer's Cramp or Running Out for a Card
  You type, and PenPals takes it from there: we handle the writing, addressing, and mailing.
• Ideal for Bulk Sends:
  Whether it’s one coworker’s special day or ten birthdays in a month, PenPals lets you schedule your cards ahead of time so no one feels overlooked.‍

Browse our cards below to get started.