Article | What to Write

10 Messages to Write in a Birthday Card to a C-Level Executive

Daryl Forkell
P good life great fun bday plant 1HBE2183
P good life great fun bday plant 1HBE2183

Acknowledging a leader on their birthday is a nice thing to do. But it can also be a little intimidating.

What should I say? Is my message too personal?  Is it not personal enough? 

As the experts in writing business greetings, we've created a list of 10 messages you can write in a birthday card for a C-level executive. Don't worry, we're here to help! Below, find quick tips and card message ideas that will resonate with your company's CEO, CFO, CMO or C-Suite team leader. 

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Pro Tip: Buy high quality bulk birthday cards from Hallmark and keep them in a desk drawer. An office birthday celebration may spring up and you'll be well prepared to give your best wishes.

Remember they're humans, too. If you don't know the exec very well, and you're nervous about what to say in a birthday message, just keep it simple. They'll certainly appreciate the gesture and the effort that went into the physical card rather than a digital greeting. Focus your birthday card message on wishing them a great day, good health and many happy returns.

  • "Happy Birthday to someone who makes this company great. Thank you for all you do."

  • “I am thankful to have a job at such a wonderful company. Happy Birthday to a person who makes this place great.”

  • “Happy Birthday to someone who inspires us all!”

Try some humor. This is for the occasion when you know an exec loves to laugh.

  • “Happy Birthday to the gal in the corner office from the gal in the corner cube.”

  • “Happy Birthday. I billed an hour on my timesheet to writing this. Hope that’s okay.”

  • “Happy Birthday from your brightest employee who you’re going to promote real soon.”

Funny cards are great for the executive who is also a good friend.

Or don't try some humor. If you’ve never met this C-level executive, and/or their personality errs on the side of serious, use phrases such as:

  • “Happy Birthday. Thank you for your leadership."

  • ”Happy Birthday to a wonderful leader."

  • “Thank you for making this company so great. Happy Birthday!”

  • “Happy Birthday and best wishes for another successful year.”

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Pro Tip: Milestone birthdays are frequently celebrated with enthusiasm. If you want to send a birthday message to a leader, but don't have a close relationship, a landmark birthday could be the perfect time to join in on a bigger-than-usual celebration.

Be yourself. Don’t use language or words that you would not normally use when writing a note. If you’ve worked closely with the exec, include a note that is more personal. Just be the best version of you. Acknowledge the birthday, and then make it even more meaningful by including a personal message. 

Find just the right card and get celebrating! For other office birthday message ideas, check out these articles:

Don't want to wait for a birthday to show someone you care? Hallmark can help you build relationships with cards for any occasion.