Knowing What To Say To Someone On Sabbatical Leave In Email can sometimes feel tricky. You want to be supportive and show you care, but you also don’t want to be intrusive or make them feel like they’re still at work. This guide will help you craft emails that are thoughtful, respectful, and appropriate for different situations.
Acknowledging Their Leave and Offering Support
When someone you work with is on sabbatical, it’s nice to acknowledge their time away. A simple email to let them know you’re thinking of them can go a long way. Here’s how to approach it:
- Keep it brief: Acknowledge their leave and express your well wishes.
- Focus on positivity: Share excitement about their time off and encourage them to enjoy it.
- Avoid work talk: Unless they’ve specifically asked for updates, avoid discussing work-related issues.
Here are a few examples of what you could include:
- “I hope you’re having a wonderful time on sabbatical!”
- “Wishing you all the best during your time away. Enjoy every moment!”
- “We’re thinking of you and hope you’re having a chance to relax and recharge.”
Example: Initial Greeting and Well Wishes
Example Email: Initial Contact
Subject: Thinking of you!
Hi [Employee Name],
I just wanted to drop you a quick line to wish you all the best as you begin your sabbatical! I hope you’re looking forward to [mention something specific if you know, like “exploring new hobbies” or “spending time with family”].
We’ll be sure to keep you updated on anything important, but otherwise, we hope you completely disconnect and enjoy this valuable time off.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example Email: Checking in Without Work-Related Questions
Subject: Checking In
Hi [Employee Name],
Just wanted to send a quick note to see how you are doing on your sabbatical. I hope you’re finding some peace and enjoying your time.
Is there anything you’d like to share about what you are up to? We’d love to hear about it (if you are willing!).
Best,
[Your Name]
Example Email: Sharing Good News
Subject: Some good news to share!
Hi [Employee Name],
I wanted to share that the team successfully [mention a positive achievement or milestone]. We are proud and happy for you!
We know you’ve put a lot of effort into this. Enjoy the rest of your time!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example Email: Sending a Gift
Subject: A little something for you!
Hi [Employee Name],
The team wanted to send a little something to show we are thinking about you. We are hoping that it will help you on your sabbatical!
We are hoping you are having a wonderful time on your sabbatical. We look forward to hearing from you in the future.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example Email: Touching Base After A Major Announcement
Subject: Update
Hi [Employee Name],
I wanted to let you know that [major announcement]. I know that you are not in the office, so I wanted to make sure you were informed.
We are thinking of you and wish you all the best. Enjoy the rest of your time!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example Email: Ending Their Sabbatical
Subject: Welcome back!
Hi [Employee Name],
The team and I are thrilled that you are returning from your sabbatical! We have missed you, and we look forward to having you back in the office.
Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you get re-settled back in.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
It’s important to remember that every person and every situation is different. Always be respectful of their time away and their privacy. When in doubt, err on the side of being too cautious about discussing work. Enjoy your sabbatical, and take the time to recharge and pursue your goals.