How to reply to a nice email from senior manager?

[RedVelvetBow]

I received a really nice email from a senior manager at work (not my line manager). I started a few months ago and it was just them saying they are really happy I enjoyed the team and I have impressed them with how quickly I have picked things up and they are looking forward to working with me next year.

It really surprised me. My job is very generous with praise and giving positive feedback but it was a surprise to receive an email from this particular colleague.

I will reply first thing on Monday morning but I'm not really sure what to say. If it was my manager or someone I knew better I would have replied already, but I think I'm over-thinking it with this particular colleague.

Would something like Thank you, I've really enjoyed my time here so far and looking forward to working more with you next year be ok?

Yes that sounds perfect. I always try to be fairly brief, but agree a short thank you would be nice to acknowledge the feedback.

I always stay such emails for DP! Can you share a little more content from email ? I think what you’ve got is ok though

Yes, I think your reply is great, You could add 'what a lovely message to receive' too if you wanted to extend it a bit.

I’d say something like it’s really kind of you to take the time to give me that feedback, it’s very much appreciated.

Perfect reply, OP.

I’d probably drop the “looking forward to working more with you”. But otherwise your short and sweet reply sounds fine.

Don't put 'looking forward to working with you'. He manager is messaging from a position of seniority and speaking of your performance.
You aren't in a position to comment on their performance, so making a statement about them personally isn't needed.
A general 'thanks, loving the team and organisation, looking forward to the challenges of the next year' message (in a level of formality/wordiness to match the original) is fine.

I thinks "what a lovely message to receive" is absolutely fine. My husband works in a very inclusive, all encompassing type office where staff are always being looked out for. It drives him mad, but I actually think it's wonderful - because it's backed up by action. If he has a problem he can raise it and it will be absolutely listened to and acted upon. As opposed to lots of places I see where talk is cheap but not really heartfelt ( like my workplace!)

If you feel that's it's genuine then I would say to respond positively ( but not too effusively so's not to look too much like a suck ass!)