150 Ways to Congratulate Someone Professionally with Scripts

Master the art of congratulating someone with 150 professional scripts and templates. From casual to formal, find the perfect words for every occasion.

Have you ever struggled to find the right words when someone shares good news?

If you want to be a good friend or a better boss, congratulatory gestures are essential for expressing your support. But how do you congratulate someone appropriately without being generic? Here is everything you need to know about extending heartfelt congratulations to a friend, colleague, or family member celebrating a significant milestone.

(We’ve even included congratulatory scripts to serve as inspiration!)

The Importance of Celebrating Others’ Good News

The reasons for congratulating someone might seem self-evident—it’s kind, supportive, and simply the right thing to do when someone experiences success.

But did you know that research shows that congratulating others actually creates measurable psychological benefits for both you and the person you’re congratulating?

According to a 2018 study (source), this happens via a process researchers call “capitalization,” which occurs when people share their good news with supportive listeners.

According to the “interpersonal model of capitalization” (InterCAP), responding enthusiastically to someone’s good news strengthens your relationship and boosts both parties’ wellbeing. This creates a positive feedback loop where shared joy leads to stronger connections.

When you genuinely congratulate others, you:

• Validate their achievement
• Help them extend their positive emotions
• Show that you value their experiences
• Build trust in your relationship

Both parties experience mood enhancement during these interactions—the receiver feels valued while the giver experiences the joy of connection and shared positivity.

150 Congratulatory Messages, Scripts & Templates for ANY Occasion

So what do you say to someone who is celebrating a big life change? If you’re drawing a blank, here are 150 ideas for cards, texts, or emails of congratulations organized by occasion.

We’ve broken down these congratulatory messages into different celebration categories—and then further refined them into casual and formal congratulations so you’ll have something for every occasion and context.

How to Congratulate Someone on a New Job

Considering that people spend an average of 47 hours at work per week, a new job can dramatically shift someone’s day-to-day experience. Even if someone isn’t working in their “dream career,” a new job could mean a better office, exciting new projects, and a higher salary. Here is how to congratulate someone on a new job:

Casual Job Congratulations

1. “I’m so proud of you! Your hard work paid off (I knew it would). Congrats on your well-deserved success!”
2. “This is just the beginning. I can’t wait to see all the things you accomplish!”
3. “Look at you, moving to the next level! I am lucky to know someone so driven and ambitious. You inspire me every day. Congrats on the new job!”
4. “Congrats on your new job! Company X is so lucky to have you!”
5. “You did it! This new position has your name written all over it.”
6. “New job, new adventures, same amazing you. Congratulations!”
7. “Woo-hoo! Time to celebrate your awesome new gig!”
8. “I knew you could do it! Congrats, and best luck in your new position.”
9. “So happy for you! This is a huge achievement, and I can’t wait to see what you do next.”
10. “From the moment you interviewed, I knew they’d be crazy not to hire you!”

Strong connections with others can transform our lives. Want to build deeper and more meaningful relationships? Check out:

Formal Job Congratulations

11. “I am thrilled to hear about your new role, and I can’t wait to see all that you accomplish.”
12. “Congratulations on your new position. Your exceptional skills and dedication have clearly been recognized.”
13. “It is my pleasure to congratulate you on securing your new role at [Company]. They are fortunate to have gained such a talented professional.”
14. “Please accept my sincere congratulations on your new position. I have no doubt you will continue to excel.”
15. “I’m delighted to learn about your recent career move. This achievement is a testament to your expertise and perseverance.”
16. “Warmest congratulations on your new appointment. I am confident you will bring the same excellence to this role as you have to everything else.”
17. “Your new position is well-deserved recognition of your capabilities. Congratulations on this significant achievement.”
18. “I am pleased to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your new professional endeavor.”
19. “May I offer my warmest congratulations on your new position. This achievement reflects your commitment to excellence.”
20. “It is with great pleasure that I congratulate you on your new role. I wish you continued success in all your professional endeavors.”

How to Congratulate Someone on a Baby

When your friend or coworker becomes a parent, their world transforms in an instant. This life-changing milestone deserves heartfelt recognition that acknowledges both the joy and the enormous transition they’re experiencing. Here are some ideas for new baby wishes:

Casual Baby Congratulations

21. “I’m so happy for your growing family! Sending all my love to the new baby.”
22. “Sending all three of you my love. Cannot wait to squeeze those little cheeks!”
23. “Congrats on your new bundle of joy!”
24. “Who runs the world? Your new baby girl! Congrats.”
25. “Wishing you all the best in parenthood… and some good rest.”
26. “Welcome to the parents club! It’s exhausting but so worth it.”
27. “Congratulations on creating another miracle!”
28. “Wishing you a few extra hours of sleep and all the joy of a new baby!”
29. “Baby feet, tiny hands, and endless love. Congratulations on your new little one!”
30. “The adventure begins! Congrats on your new tiny human.”

Formal Baby Congratulations

31. “Warmest congratulations on the arrival of your new baby. May the years be filled with joy, health, and abundance!”
32. “I can’t think of anyone more suited to raise our next generation. May this new chapter be filled with laughter, love, and plenty of rest.”
33. “Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on the birth of your child. What a precious blessing to your family.”
34. “Congratulations on this wonderful addition to your family. Wishing your child a lifetime of health and happiness.”
35. “With great joy, I extend my congratulations on your new baby. May your home be filled with the warmth and wonder this little one brings.”
36. “It is with immense pleasure that I congratulate you on becoming parents. Your little one is truly fortunate to join such a loving family.”
37. “Your little one is so lucky to have such a beautiful, loving family. May your days be filled with joy and plenty of rest!”
38. “Extending my sincerest congratulations on the arrival of your baby. This marks the beginning of a magnificent journey.”
39. “Much love to your growing family of [four]! May you find boundless joy in parenthood.”
40. “I extend my warmest wishes as you welcome this precious new life. May your baby bring you immeasurable happiness.”

How to Congratulate Someone on a Promotion

Surveys show that the more friends you have at work, the happier you’ll be. Celebrating your colleagues’ job promotion is one simple way to bolster your friendship and show them that you care.

Casual Promotion Congratulations

41. “Look at you, taking your career to the next level! I always knew you would achieve huge success. I am so proud of you!”
42. “Good news calls for a celebration! Congrats on the big promotion. You deserve it, and I can’t wait to see what greatness you accomplish next!”
43. “I can’t think of a more deserving person for a promotion. All those early mornings and late nights paid off. Congrats!”
44. “Congrats on the big promotion! Your work ethic has always inspired me. I can’t wait to see what you do next.”
45. “Moving up in the world! So excited for your promotion.”
46. “The boss finally realized what I’ve known all along – you’re amazing! Congrats on the promotion.”
47. “Your promotion is proof that hard work and talent get noticed. Way to go!”
48. “So happy to see you climbing that ladder! Well-deserved promotion!”
49. “Looks like those extra hours paid off! Congratulations on your promotion.”
50. “Celebrating your success today! Your promotion is so well-deserved.”

Formal Promotion Congratulations

51. “I am thrilled to hear about your new role, and I can’t wait to work together on upcoming projects.”
52. “It is terrific to see that your hard work and achievements have been recognized! You are the perfect fit for the new position. Congrats on the amazing opportunity.”
53. “Your hard work and dedication are inspirational to us all. Congratulations on your promotion.”
54. “Sending my heartiest congratulations for your well-earned success.”
55. “It has been such a treat to work with you as you move ahead in your career. Sending you my best wishes in the new position!”
56. “From the moment I met you, I had a feeling you were destined for greatness. Wishing you the best in your new position!”
57. “Please accept my sincere congratulations on your recent promotion. Your dedication and expertise have clearly been recognized.”
58. “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate you on your well-deserved promotion. Your contributions to the team have been invaluable.”
59. “I extend my warmest congratulations on your promotion. This recognition is a testament to your outstanding work.”
60. “Congratulations on this significant career advancement. Your commitment to excellence has clearly been noticed.”

Want to learn the best way to share your own job promotion and be on the receiving end of these congratulations? Check out: How to Announce a Promotion With Examples (The Fun Way).

How to Congratulate Someone on Their Wedding

Whether you’re at the wedding or liking their elopement pics on social media, celebrating a couple’s commitment to each other is a beautiful way to honor their love story. Here are some heartfelt wedding wishes you can send to the newlyweds:

Casual Wedding Congratulations

61. “I am so happy you found true love. You two are so amazing together! Congratulations on your union, and best wishes in your new chapter.”
62. “Today is just the beginning of fun. Looking forward to celebrating this new season of life with you both!”
63. “You two are a blessing, not only to each other but to all those around you. Congrats on your beautiful marriage!”
64. “Wishing you love and happiness in your new life together.”
65. “May your marriage be filled with joy, romance, and laughter! Congrats on tying the knot!”
66. “It makes me so happy to see two people so perfectly matched for each other. Wishing you the happiest honeymoon and years of love to come!”
67. “You two go together like peas and carrots. I can’t think of a more perfect pair! Wishing you joy, love, and happiness!”
68. “Best wishes for a prosperous life together!”
69. “Wishing you a lifetime of love, happiness, and adventure.”
70. “Um… #couplegoals! I hope you two beautiful souls enjoy a magical wedding, a dreamy honeymoon, and a joyous life together.”

Formal Wedding Congratulations

71. “Roses are red; violets are blue… I am so happy for you two! Thank you for inviting me to celebrate this special day with you both. Wishing you the best today and always.”
72. “We are so happy to call you family. Thank you for welcoming us to join on the big day.”
73. “I am so honored to spend this happy occasion with you and your beautiful family. Congratulations!”
74. “Sending you love, hugs, and warm wishes from your new family. We could not imagine a better pair.”
75. “May I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your marriage. Wishing you a lifetime of joy and fulfillment together.”
76. “It is with great pleasure that I congratulate you both on your wedding day. May your union be blessed with harmony and prosperity.”
77. “Please accept my warmest wishes on this momentous occasion. Your commitment to one another is truly inspiring.”
78. “I wish to convey my sincere congratulations on your marriage. May your life together be filled with endless love and happiness.”
79. “Extending my most cordial congratulations to you both on your wedding day. May your journey together be extraordinary.”
80. “It is an honor to offer my congratulations on your union. May your marriage be a source of continual joy and fulfillment.”

How to Congratulate Someone on Graduation

Graduating high school or college is a significant milestone in any young person’s life. These graduation messages remind them that you are rooting for them in their next chapter.

Casual Graduation Congratulations

81. “I hope your dreams take you to the corners of the earth, to the highest hopes, and to the most special places your heart has ever known. Caps off to you!”
82. “You always got high marks; now it’s time to make your mark! The world needs more people like you.”
83. “We are so lucky to know such a genius. Your celebration was well-deserved. Congrats!”
84. “Congratulations to our kind, sweet, and brilliant [daughter/son/niece/nephew]. Aim for the stars! We believe in you!”
85. “May the next chapter be better than you ever could’ve imagined!”
86. “The tassel was worth the hassle! Congratulations!”
87. “Congratulations to a brilliant, wonderful human! I can’t wait to see what you’re onto next.”
88. “You’ve always been a smarty-pants, but now you have a certificate to prove it! Bravo!”
89. “From homework to real work – congratulations on your graduation!”
90. “Class dismissed! Congrats on your amazing achievement!”

Formal Graduation Congratulations

91. “I can’t think of anyone smarter, kinder, or more prepared for success.”
92. “You are destined for greatness. Congrats on a huge life achievement. We are so proud of you!”
93. “Driven doesn’t even begin to describe your work ethic. You are an inspiration to us all!”
94. “Life isn’t about the hand you’re dealt; it’s about the way you play your cards. Clearly, you’ve played them exceedingly well. Congratulations on your degree and your inevitable success ahead!”
95. “Please accept my sincere congratulations on your graduation. This achievement marks the culmination of years of dedication and perseverance.”
96. “I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your academic accomplishment. May this be the beginning of continued success.”
97. “It is with great admiration that I congratulate you on your graduation. Your commitment to excellence is truly commendable.”
98. “I would like to offer my warmest congratulations on completing your degree. This achievement is a testament to your intellectual capabilities and work ethic.”
99. “May I extend my most sincere congratulations on your graduation. Your academic success reflects your exceptional dedication to learning.”
100. “It is my pleasure to congratulate you on this significant educational milestone. May your knowledge and skills lead you to further achievements.”

How to Congratulate Someone on Retirement

After decades of hard work, new retirees love to be recognized for their contributions to a company or organization. Here are some kind things to say in a retirement card (which you can give alongside a gift):

Casual Retirement Congratulations

101. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without you. Thanks for everything! Congratulations on your well-earned retirement.”
102. “Let’s be clear before you go: You are retiring from your job, but not our friendship! I hope to stay in touch and share many more [jokes/beers/meals] together. Congratulations!”
103. “Thank you for your inspiration, motivation, and hilarious lunch break jokes. You will be missed!”
104. “Wine gets finer with time, and so have you! May your retirement be filled with plenty of well-aged bottles and hearty laughs.”
105. “Congratulations on a long, successful career! Time to revisit your bucket list and enjoy yourself!”
106. “I can’t believe I’ll be working while you [nap/travel the world/play golf]! But your rest is well-deserved. You will be missed! Enjoy yourself!”
107. “It’s not easy to say goodbye, but I will forever remember the great memories of working with you. I hope that retirement brings you joy and relaxation!”
108. “Finally! You don’t have to show up to 7 AM morning meetings anymore. May your retirement be filled with restful sleep and lots of good food. Congratulations!”
109. “Time to trade deadlines for fishing lines! Enjoy your retirement!”
110. “Congratulations on your retirement! Your new job title: Professional Relaxer!”

Formal Retirement Congratulations

111. “A leader will always be a leader, even in retirement. I wish you the best as you begin this new chapter.”
112. “You have left behind an incredible legacy of commendable work ethic and service. I will never forget the best [boss/coworker]. Wishing you a blissful retirement! You deserve it.”
113. “Please accept my sincere congratulations on your retirement. Your contributions to our organization have been invaluable.”
114. “It is with mixed emotions that I congratulate you on your retirement. While your expertise will be greatly missed, your well-deserved rest is certainly celebrated.”
115. “I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your retirement. Your career has been characterized by excellence and dedication.”
116. “After years of dedicated service, I offer my warmest congratulations on your retirement. May this new chapter bring you fulfillment and joy.”
117. “It is my pleasure to congratulate you on your retirement after such a distinguished career. Your legacy will continue to inspire us.”
118. “I extend my most sincere congratulations on your retirement. Your work ethic and commitment have set a standard for all to follow.”
119. “May I offer my warmest wishes as you embark on this new chapter of life. Your retirement is well-earned after years of exceptional service.”
120. “Please accept my congratulations on your retirement. Your professional journey has been nothing short of exemplary.”

How to Congratulate Someone for an Achievement or Award

When you are rewarded for your hard work, it fulfills your basic needs for belonging and social acceptance. Recognizing others for their achievements is a proven way to boost their confidence and increase employee motivation in the workplace. Here’s what you can say:

Casual Achievement Congratulations

121. “Outstanding job! This [award/achievement] was made for you.”
122. “I know you worked so hard for this. What a tremendous accomplishment! Here is a little something to help you recharge and celebrate.”
123. “I am so proud of all that you’ve achieved. This is yet another step toward your dreams. I can’t wait to see what you do next.”
124. “Congratulations! I am so happy you’re finally getting the recognition you deserve.”
125. “You earned this! Your tremendous efforts behind the scenes have not gone unrecognized. Congrats on winning [award].”
126. “I know this has been a goal of yours for a long time. Now, look at you! You really did it! I admire your courage and zest so much. Congratulations!”
127. “You may not realize how many people you are impacting. This is more than a trophy— it’s a testament to your hard work and big heart. We are rooting for you!”
128. “Look who’s changing the world! You earned this. Congratulations!”
129. “This award has your name written all over it! So deserved!”
130. “Your incredible skills are finally getting the recognition they deserve!”

Formal Achievement Congratulations

131. “I can’t think of anyone more fitting to be named [award]. Let’s celebrate your dedication, persistence, and brilliant execution!”
132. “Congratulations on winning [award]. This is a monumental step in your career, and you deserve every bit of celebration. You are truly one-of-a-kind, and I am grateful to know you.”
133. “It takes an incredible [manager/lawyer/journalist/student] to win this award, and that’s exactly what you are. Keep doing what you are doing. People are noticing!”
134. “Congratulations on winning [award]! Here is a bottle of fizz to help you celebrate. I’m sure there will be many more to come! Cheers!”
135. “All these years of practice and preparation led to this moment. You continue to amaze us. Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement.”
136. “I wish to convey my sincere congratulations on your outstanding achievement. Your excellence has been rightfully recognized.”
137. “Please accept my warmest congratulations on receiving this prestigious award. It is a well-deserved acknowledgment of your exceptional work.”
138. “It is with great admiration that I congratulate you on this remarkable achievement. Your dedication has clearly set you apart.”
139. “May I extend my most heartfelt congratulations on this significant recognition. Your commitment to excellence has been justly rewarded.”
140. “I would like to offer my sincere congratulations on your remarkable accomplishment. This recognition reflects the exceptional standard of your work.”

How to Congratulate Someone for Other Special Moments

Aside from regular life events, there are thousands of other reasons to congratulate your friends. Pay attention to what lights up their face, and take the extra initiative to support them in their achievements. Here are some additional ideas for congratulations:

141. “Congratulations on your engagement! I couldn’t be happier for you two!”
142. “Congrats on your house purchase! Can’t wait for the housewarming party!”
143. “Congratulations on passing your exams! All that studying paid off!”
144. “Congratulations on publishing your book! Your story is so inspiring. I cannot wait to read it and share it with everyone I know.”
145. “I am so excited to see your travel dreams come true! Best wishes on your next adventure! I hope I get some postcards.”
146. “Congrats on releasing your music out into the world! Your creativity and courage are so inspiring. I’ll be blasting it every day in my car.”
147. “Umm… wow! How did I get lucky enough to know a social media superstar? Congratulations on building your following and getting your first brand deals!”
148. “Happy housewarming! Best wishes in your new dream abode. I’m sure your decorations will be spectacular (as always).”
149. “Congratulations on becoming a citizen! What an incredible journey and achievement!”
150. “I know you’ve always wanted to give a TED Talk, and look at you now! Congratulations on finally getting on stage!“

9 Quick Tips for Congratulating People

Relationships are about being there for people through life’s highs and lows. People feel extra special when you show up during their celebratory moments. A simple congratulations shows that you care about someone and you are rooting for them.

Let others bask in the spotlight with these quick tips for congratulating people:

Never Forget the Big Events

Congratulating people on major milestones is essential for maintaining lasting relationships. Imagine you are celebrating one of the biggest moments of your life, and someone you care about isn’t there, or they didn’t reach out at all—your heart would probably sink a little bit. Life will go on, but your relationship with them will feel a little tainted.

You don’t have to know every detail of what is happening in someone’s life, but it is important to show up for the big moments. Even if you can’t be there physically, a congratulations card and/or gift shows that you are paying attention to their life.

Everyone is busy, so here are some tips to stay up-to-date on the important celebrations:

• Check-in on them via social media: Most people post about big milestones like pregnancy, job promotions, and retirement on their social media accounts. Likes and comments are always nice, but going the extra mile can make a huge difference in your relationship with them.
• Check your work calendar: If someone is celebrating a promotion or having a retirement party, it will probably be posted on the team calendar.
• Ask mutual friends: If you are unsure what’s going on in someone’s life, ask mutual friends, colleagues, or family members. You can say, “Is Rob’s graduation coming up soon? Do you have the dates?” or “I noticed that Jessica posted about a big celebration on her Facebook. Can you fill me in on the details?”
• Put birthdays (and other events) in your calendar: Make a habit of putting someone’s birthday in your digital calendar as soon as you hear about it—and if it’s a birthday, remember to set it to recurring annually!

Pro Tip: You can also leverage this tip by applying it to small events! Friend went to the gym today? Coworker gained 1% more sales this month? Congratulate them for the small wins!

For the Greatest Impact, Send a Handwritten Card

In the age of texting, emails, and social media, handwritten cards are a rare commodity. The lost art of personal, handwritten notes is yearning to be rediscovered.

Handwritten notes are more meaningful because they take more time and effort. On average, people send or receive over 100 emails per day.

How many letters do you think they get?

Stand out and send your congratulations in a handwritten card. At the very least, write a few thoughtful sentences beneath a pre-written card. It will make a huge difference!

Pro Tip: Keep a small collection of congratulations cards on hand so you’re always prepared for unexpected good news. Stock up during sales on blank cards with beautiful designs that can work for multiple occasions.

Be Timely

Nobody wants to receive a “Congrats on the new baby!” card 6 months after their pregnancy… that’s awkward!

Make sure your congratulations message is timely. When you find out about someone’s good news, don’t procrastinate on card-writing or gift-buying. If needed, add a calendar reminder to make sure you extend your congratulations within a week of the good news.

Pro Tip: Set up a “Celebrations” calendar in your phone specifically for tracking friends’ and colleagues’ big moments. Include reminders a week before, the day of, and a few days after to ensure you never miss an opportunity to celebrate them.

Make it Fun and Positive

Generic messages tend to be bland and basic. Depending on your relationship to the person, you can add more congratulatory fun with:

• A nice compliment about their character, achievements, or work ethic
• An inside joke
• A copy of an old photo
• A quick story of your favorite funny memory (related to the occasion)
• A gag gift
• A goofy quote

Don’t be afraid to spice things up with a little witty banter and playful teasing. Just be sure you don’t insult them. Learn how to Be an Expert at Witty Banter…How to Charm With Your Words.

Pro Tip: Create a photo collage from memorable moments you’ve shared with the person that’s related to their achievement. For example, if they’re graduating, include photos from study sessions or school events you attended together.

Be Personal and Specific

A basic “Congrats!” doesn’t show that you’re really in touch with what’s happening in someone’s life. Make your message count by being specific about the occasion. Furthermore, add some specifics about why you are so excited for them to be celebrating this.

For example, if someone announces their promotion on LinkedIn, they’ll probably get dozens of comments saying, “Congratulations on the new position!”

If you are close to this person, you can deepen your connection with them by being more specific in your praise.

Reference their hard work achievements that got them to this moment by saying, “I am so excited you finally got the position you have worked so hard for. I saw you staying late at the office long after we all left! Your success is well-deserved, and I can’t wait to work with you on future projects.”

Pro Tip: Keep a simple note in your phone about people’s goals and dreams as they mention them. When they achieve something, refer back to these notes to create incredibly personalized congratulations that show you’ve been paying attention all along.

Add Excitement For the Future

When you are congratulating someone, it helps to include a forward-thinking phrase, such as:

• “I can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.”
• “I am so excited to continue following your journey.”
• “I can’t wait to get together and hear all about the details!”
• “This calls for a celebration! Will you join me for dinner next week?”

Including these future-focused statements creates a sense of ongoing support and connection. People love knowing that you’ll be there not just for this victory, but for all the ones that follow.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t focus on the present. Allow your friend to relish in the excitement of the moment, but remind them that you will be there to celebrate their future good news as well! This balanced approach creates both immediate joy and anticipation for continued success.

Pro Tip: Suggest a specific date and activity to celebrate their achievement rather than a vague “we should celebrate sometime.” Even something simple like “Can I take you for coffee next Tuesday to hear all about it?” shows genuine interest and gives them something concrete to look forward to.

Be Genuinely Excited

Authentic emotional expressions create stronger social bonds than generic pleasantries. When crafting your message, take a moment to connect with how you truly feel about the person’s achievement.

Before writing, ask yourself:

• What specifically impresses me about this achievement?
• How does seeing their success make me feel?
• What qualities did they demonstrate to reach this milestone?

When you tap into your genuine emotions, your congratulations will naturally become more heartfelt and meaningful.

Pro Tip: If you’re struggling to connect with genuine excitement, try imagining how you would feel if you accomplished the same thing. This perspective-taking exercise is super useful for developing empathy and can help you tap into authentic emotions that will make your congratulations more sincere.

Be Aware of Cultural Nuances

Congratulatory customs vary widely across cultures. What’s appropriate in one cultural context might seem underwhelming or overwhelming in another.

For example:

• In some Asian cultures, modesty is valued, and excessive praise might cause embarrassment
• In some Latin American cultures, effusive congratulations with physical affection may be more acceptable
• In professional settings, the level of formality often depends on industry norms and relationship dynamics

When congratulating someone from a different cultural background, take a moment to consider these nuances. When in doubt, observe how others from their culture express congratulations.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about cultural expectations, match your level of enthusiasm to how the person shared their news. If they were reserved in their announcement, respond with warm but measured congratulations. If they were exuberant, match their energy with equally enthusiastic celebration.

Choose the Right Congratulation Method

The way you deliver congratulations matters almost as much as what you say. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide the best approach:

Pro Tip: When in doubt, match your response to how they shared the news. If they told you in person, congratulate them in person. If they texted, a text back is appropriate (though you can always do more for closer relationships).

Extra Pro Tip: Pay attention to how someone shares their news. If they announce it publicly on social media, they may appreciate public congratulations. If they tell you privately, they might prefer a more discreet acknowledgment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Congratulating Someone

How do I congratulate someone on a new baby or pregnancy?

When congratulating someone on a new baby or pregnancy, be warm and thoughtful while respecting their privacy. For pregnancy, simple expressions like “Congratulations on your growing family!” work well. For new babies, acknowledge the parents’ joy with messages like “Welcome to your beautiful baby!” or “Congratulations on your new arrival!” Consider their circumstances—for those who struggled with fertility, a simple “I’m so happy for you” might be most appropriate. Always follow the parents’ lead regarding how publicly they wish to celebrate.

What’s the best way to congratulate someone on their wedding?

The best way to congratulate someone on their wedding is to focus on their happiness and future together. Express joy for their union with phrases like “Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness together” or “Congratulations on finding your perfect partner.” Personalize your message by mentioning qualities you admire about them as a couple. For close relationships, include a specific memory or inside joke. Whether sending a card, gift, or offering congratulations in person, sincerity matters most—authentic well-wishes will always be appreciated.

How can I congratulate someone for a work achievement or promotion?

When congratulating someone for a work achievement or promotion, acknowledge both their accomplishment and the effort behind it. Say something like “Congratulations on your well-deserved promotion! Your dedication has clearly been recognized.” Mention specific qualities that contributed to their success, such as “Your innovative approach to problem-solving makes you perfect for this new role.” For closer colleagues, offer support with “Let me know how I can help you succeed in this new position.” Avoid comparisons to others or focusing on material benefits of their promotion.

What are thoughtful ways to congratulate someone on a new job?

Thoughtful ways to congratulate someone on a new job include recognizing both their accomplishment and the exciting journey ahead. Send a personalized message that acknowledges their specific skills, like “Your amazing project management skills make you perfect for this role!” Offer genuine support with “I’m here if you need anything during your transition.” Consider sending a small, useful gift related to their new position, such as a nice pen or professional notebook. Follow up after their first week to show continued interest in their success.

How do I express congratulations for a personal milestone?

Express congratulations for a personal milestone by acknowledging both the achievement and the person’s unique journey. Start with genuine enthusiasm: “I’m so incredibly proud of you for reaching this goal!” Then recognize the effort involved: “I know how many early mornings and late nights went into this achievement.” Personalize your message by referencing specific challenges they overcame or qualities they demonstrated. Finally, look forward with them: “This is just the beginning of even more amazing accomplishments ahead!” Remember that authentic emotion matters more than perfectly crafted words.

What should I say to congratulate someone on their engagement?

To congratulate someone on their engagement, express genuine happiness for the couple’s commitment to each other. Start with enthusiasm: “I’m absolutely thrilled to hear your wonderful news!” Acknowledge their relationship with something like “You two are perfect for each other, and I couldn’t be happier for your next chapter together.” For close friends, add a personal touch: “I’ve loved watching your relationship grow from that first awkward date you told me about!” Conclude with forward-looking wishes: “I can’t wait to celebrate with you and be part of your journey to the altar!”

How can I make my congratulations feel genuine and heartfelt?

Make your congratulations feel genuine and heartfelt by being specific, personal, and emotionally present. Rather than generic phrases, mention concrete details about the achievement or the person’s journey: “Watching you persist through all those late nights studying makes this graduation even more meaningful.” Show that you understand what this achievement means to them: “I know how much landing this job means after your career change.” Use your own emotional response: “I literally jumped up and down when I heard your news!” Most importantly, be present—whether through active listening in person or thoughtful responses in writing.

Customize Your Congratulations with Positivity and Thoughtfulness

The more we can celebrate each other’s achievements, the closer we become. A thoughtful “congratulations” shows someone that you truly value their role in your life. Even more importantly, it demonstrates that you are rooting for them. We all need more people on our team!

When you’re congratulating someone, remember to:

• Stand out with handwritten congrats: In this digital age, a handwritten card is nostalgic and extra special. If you want someone to really know you care, take a moment to write a quick card with pen and paper. This is one of the most genuine forms of congratulations.
• Compliment them: Congratulatory messages should always have a positive spin that emphasizes the positive qualities you see in that person.
• Be timely: Make sure that you send your congratulatory message within a week of the big event. If needed, make a calendar reminder so you don’t miss your window of opportunity.
• Make it personalized and specific: Reference specific memories, character traits, or inside jokes that make your relationship with the recipient special.

Looking to build deeper connections through meaningful conversations? Check out our guide on 18 Conversation Starters That Lead to Amazing Relationships.