"You have so much to deal with at this time. A card with a sincere and appropriate message based on how well you know the employee will suffice.Our free condolence letter template provides leaders with an effective tool to demonstrate sympathy, caring and thoughtfulness in a professional manner. A condolence letter is a timetested way to tell the bereaved that their loved one mattered to you, that you care. A condolence message is a respectful way of communicating sympathy for someone suffering a loss. Here's how to express condolences in a professional manner. In fact, Emily Post suggests that an email can precede a phone call or written condolence, but should be followed up with a handwritten note. I was sorry to hear about your father passing away. I know he had been sick for a while, but our whole family was hoping he'd pull through. May your Mom rest in peace.