Polite to Colleague
Workplace · Greeting
You
ご出産おめでとうございます。これからが楽しみですね！
ごしゅっさんおめでとうございます。これからがたのしみですね！
Congratulations on the birth of your baby! How exciting, the journey ahead!
Romaji: Go-shussan omedetō gozaimasu. Kore kara ga tanoshimi desu ne! / Reply Romaji: Arigatō gozaimasu! Mada fuan mo ōi desu ga...
Reply
ありがとうございます！まだ不安も多いですが…
ありがとうございます！まだふあんもおおいですが…
Thank you! There's still a lot I'm uncertain about, but...
Gesture & etiquette
A warm, genuine smile paired with a light bow; if presenting a gift, do so with both hands; allow the new parent to redirect the conversation — some are eager to share, others are exhausted and prefer brevity.
A small gift (出産祝い, shussaniwai) is customary for close colleagues, typically 3,000–5,000 yen for acquaintances. The phrase '楽しみですね' (how exciting) focuses on the future joy, not the hardship of newborn care — a gentle, celebratory framing. Avoid questions about sleep deprivation or difficulties; let the new parent choose what to share.