What to Write in a Business Holiday Card to Employees: 25 Festive Messages that Show Staff Appreciation

As the year winds down and calendars fill up with meetings and holiday to-dos, it can be easy to overlook the power of year-end appreciation. But this season brings a unique opportunity: a chance to pause and celebrate the people at the heart of your business–your employees.

A well-crafted holiday message to staff is more than a seasonal courtesy; it’s a way to reinforce connections, express sincere gratitude, and uplift morale at a time when it’s most needed. In today’s workplace, thoughtful recognition goes a long way–and is proven to impact retention.

From the quality of the card to the care behind the words, a Hallmark greeting creates a multi-sensory moment that shows employees they’re seen, valued, and appreciated. It's what we like to call “the biggest little thing you can do.”

Whether you're welcoming a new hire, sending Christmas cards to employees working remotely, or sharing season’s greetings with your entire staff, this guide offers 25 ready-to-use holiday card messages—plus helpful writing tips, card design ideas, and personalization suggestions to make your message truly meaningful.

Why Employee Holiday Cards Still Matter

In an age of instant messaging, emojis, and auto-replies, employees are craving something more personal. A Hallmark holiday card stands out without another ping to their inbox.

And the data backs it up:

64% of people feel special after receiving a greeting card compared to just 15% for email and 5% for text.

70% of people say physical mail is more personal than online messages

The average lifespan of direct mail is 17 days compared to just 17 seconds for email.

Here are three reasons why holiday cards make a difference for employees:

1. They acknowledge contributions in a personal way– A holiday message shows that an employee’s effort didn’t go unnoticed. It celebrates not just the season, but the people who made the year a success.

2. They foster a sense of belonging – Personalized recognition helps employees feel valued and connected to the bigger picture—something that directly influences engagement and retention.

3. They start the new year with momentum– Ending the year with genuine appreciation helps set a positive tone for the months ahead. It boosts morale, strengthens culture, and encourages long-term commitment.

The Lasting Value of a Physical Gesture

In a fast-paced, digital-first workplace, recognition can feel rushed—or worse, automated. A physical holiday card offers something employees rarely get: presence, permanence, and authenticity.

As the season ramps up, many employees are craving a break from screens—and a tangible reminder that their contributions are seen.

It’s a small act that creates a big ripple—boosting morale, trust, and connection when it matters most.

Personalization That Builds Loyalty

Today’s workforce expects more than generic praise. A personalized, professional holiday message—whether it’s a handwritten note, a nod to a specific achievement, or a message crafted with the recipient’s role in mind—can make a meaningful difference in employee engagement.

It’s not only being kind, it’s smart leadership.

→ Curious why physical holiday cards are making a big comeback—and how that benefits your team? Explore the surprising stats and emotional drivers here.

25 Employee Holiday Card Messages For All Employee Types

The best holiday messages are heartfelt, role-aware, and tailored to each employee’s contribution.

Tailored by Employee Type

New Employees

These messages are designed to acknowledge and celebrate the start of a new chapter, welcoming new hires into your workplace and expressing gratitude for their fresh contributions.

1. Welcome to the team! Your energy has brought something special to our workplace. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a fantastic start to the new year.

2. You joined us during a busy time, and we’re so glad you did. Thank you for jumping in with both feet. Happy holidays!

3. It’s been a pleasure getting to know you this year. Enjoy the season and all the new beginnings ahead.

4. Starting strong is no small feat. Thanks for bringing your best this year, and happy holidays from all of us.

5. We’re grateful for the new ideas and enthusiasm you’ve already brought to the team. Wishing you a season full of rest, joy, and celebration.

Long-Time Team Members

These messages recognize employees who’ve been part of your journey for a while, honoring their loyalty, contributions, and staying power.

1. Your steady presence has shaped so much of who we are. Thank you for being a cornerstone of our team.

2. Your commitment never goes unnoticed. Wishing you a holiday season filled with peace, rest, and joy.

3. From all of us, thank you for helping shape a year we’re proud of. Here’s to a bright and festive holiday.

4. Loyal team members like you are the heart of our success. We hope your season is as meaningful as your impact.

5. This place is better because of you, not just what you do, but how you do it. Wishing you a season filled with the appreciation you deserve.

Managers and Team Leaders

These messages are crafted to thank those who guide, coach, and support others, from department heads to team leads.

1. Your leadership continues to shape our success. Thank you for guiding the team with vision and heart. Wishing you a holiday season filled with pride and celebration.

2. From all of us, thank you for leading with integrity and care. We hope your holidays bring you the same warmth and support you give to others.

3. Your ability to lift others and move the team forward is what defines great leadership. Here's to a season of joy, reflection, and well-earned rest.

4. You set the tone, lead by example, and bring out the best in others. Thank you for everything—and happy holidays.

5. Great leadership leaves a lasting impression, and you’ve certainly made one. Wishing you a peaceful, fulfilling holiday season.

Remote or Hybrid Employees

These messages help remote staff feel just as appreciated and connected as those in-office.

1. Your dedication continues to shine, no matter where you work. Thank you for staying connected. Wishing you a joyful, well-earned holiday season.

2. No matter where you work from, the care and consistency you bring makes a real difference. Thank you for your dedication—and for helping shape a stronger team. Wishing you a season filled with rest and celebration.

3. Your impact has been felt in ways big and small—even when you’re not in the room. Thank you for showing up with such integrity and thoughtfulness. May your holidays bring the same warmth and balance you bring to the team all year long.

4. Your ability to adapt, stay focused, and show up for others speaks volumes. Thank you for everything. Wishing you a bright and joyful season.

5. Even miles apart, your presence is felt. Thank you for being such an essential part of our success. Happy holidays!

All-Staff & Company-Wide Messages

Perfect for holiday cards that go out to everyone on the team, these messages are warm, inclusive, and universal—ideal for acknowledging collective contributions and shared success.

1. We couldn’t do this without you. Thank you for everything you’ve brought to the table this year. Wishing you a season filled with gratitude and cheer.

2. Your contributions make a difference every day. May your holidays be as meaningful and rewarding as the work you do.

3. As we wrap up the year, we’re filled with appreciation for all you bring to this team. Wishing you a joyful, restful season.

4. You’re not just part of the team—you help define who we are. Thank you for being such a vital part of our journey. Happy holidays!

5. Thank you for your time, your talent, and your heart. May this season bring you the same warmth and kindness you bring to work all year long.

Tips for Writing a Better Holiday Card

Whether you're writing to five employees or five thousand, the most meaningful holiday cards go beyond formality—they reflect the culture you’ve built and the people who help shape it. Here’s how to make each message matter:

Do:

Make it Personal—but Professional

Refer to a project they contributed to, a challenge they helped navigate, or a strength they bring to the team. A line like, “Your mentorship of the new hires made a real impact this fall,” goes further than a generic “Thanks for your hard work.”

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Learn why personal recognition motivates employees and drives loyalty

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Invest in Quality That Reflects Your Culture

The card itself communicates a message. Choose paper, color, and typography that align with your brand values and people-first culture.

SHOP HOLIDAY CARDS

Be Timely and Relevant

Ground your message in the present. Referencing recent events—like a busy launch, seasonal shift, or internal milestone—helps employees feel truly seen and appreciated now.

Use Language That Celebrates, Not Evaluates

This isn’t a performance review. Avoid rating-based or overly formal language. Keep it simple and sincere. Use language like "we appreciate" and "we’re thankful" instead of “you exceeded expectations.”

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Get 5 expert-backed tips for writing employee recognition messages

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Show Leadership Presence

Have department heads, managers, or execs sign the cards by hand, or use Personal Fonts by Hallmark to replicate that human touch at scale. A note from leadership adds weight to your message, and employees notice and remember when recognition comes from the top.

Time It to Maximize Impact

Aim for delivery by early to mid-December, when attention is high but schedules haven’t hit full holiday mode. Cards received during this window tend to get more visibility, display time, and positive buzz.

Don’t:

• Use templated language that could apply to anyone.

• Add internal slogans or mission statements that feel impersonal.

• Include metrics, KPIs, or jargon from recent meetings.

• Wait until the office holiday party to pass them out.

• Misspell names or overlook remote or leave-status team members.

Holiday Gifting Ideas for Employees

A well-written card speaks volumes. Pair it with a meaningful gift, and your appreciation becomes an experience employees won’t forget. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply spreading holiday cheer, a well-chosen gift makes your message feel even more personal.

Hallmark Business Connections offers a wide range of employee gifting options—from festive treats to cozy keepsakes and desk-friendly inspiration.

Thoughtful doesn’t have to mean expensive. Many teams find success with gifts in the $10–$15 range. Bulk ordering can help you manage costs without sacrificing quality.

Most importantly, choose gifts that benefit the recipient, not just your brand. Instead of company swag, opt for something they’ll use and enjoy, like a warm drink set, gratitude journal, or seasonal ornament.

SHOP CORPORATE GIFTS

Choosing the Right Holiday Card

The right message deserves the right presentation. Hallmark Business Connections makes it easy to send holiday cards that are polished, personal, and thoughtfully designed with your employees in mind. Whether your team is classic and corporate or colorful and creative, the right design can elevate your message and deepen its impact.

Here’s how to match card style to workplace tone:

Polished & Professional

Perfect for organizations with a traditional or formal culture—such as law firms, financial institutions, or corporate teams. Look for clean lines, subtle color palettes, and elegant foil accents that convey respect and recognition with a timeless tone.

Warm & People-First

Ideal for community-driven businesses like nonprofits, healthcare organizations, or small companies with a close-knit feel. Cozy illustrations, hand-lettered fonts, and natural motifs help your message feel more personal and sincere.

Creative & Energetic

Great for startups or marketing teams where personality and innovation are core to the culture. Bright colors, abstract patterns, or playful typography help express appreciation in a more vibrant, modern voice.

Inclusive & Multicultural

For bilingual workforces, cards that feature inclusive illustrations and language show cultural awareness and respect. This extra layer of care helps every employee feel seen.

Browse Employee Holiday Cards

A Holiday Message That Resonates Beyond the Season

Employee engagement isn’t built in a single moment, but a holiday card can become one that employees carry with them.

As the year wraps up, a sincere, personalized message signals care, acknowledgment, and a workplace where people are more than just their roles.

Whether it’s your first holiday card or a long-standing tradition, Hallmark Business Connections helps you make it count–because when people feel appreciated, they show up stronger during the holidays and all year long.

Find your card, craft your message, and connect in a way that lasts.