It's always difficult when leaving a workplace. Trying to say goodbye to everyone, without forgetting each person is always difficult. Sometimes you don't want to have to even go through the process of saying goodbye. Regardless of what field you work in, you've probably seen those departure/goodbye/see you later/farewell emails. Sometimes they're short. Sometimes they're long. They can be annoying or sincere. You get the point. Well, maybe this will help those making a departure or transition.
This is a 'sort of' guide based on my experiences and of those I've worked with in the legal field. However, the basic principles apply to any departure/transition.
- Heads Up
- When departing, you always should provide notice to your more senior point of contact, whether it be an HR representative, boss, principal, director, VP, etc. What comes with alerting senior officers is often a game of telephone.
- After alerting your more senior point of contact, reach out to all of the people you've established relationships that don't already know of your impending departure.
- Does this really matter? Maybe it won't. However, you'd rather not have a colleague you're on good terms with find out of your departure from another party, especially if you've indicated no signs of leaving.
- Let those around you know of the departure with ample notice. Again, does it truly matter? Probably not, but why risk it?
- Questions
- Not sure who to ask or tell?
- Reach out to others a your organization that have left or that can provide you some more context.
- Loose Ends
- Be sure to tie up any outstanding work obligations and complete your departure procedures. Most places provide you with the details in some form of checklist or packet. Follow up and finalize the checklist with enough time before you leave.
- Departure Email
- Now this can vary, but here is an example of what you can use below. This is a mass email to a group, but you can personalize it for each person you want to individually reach out to. It should include your appreciation, next opportunity (if you want), and contact information. Keep it formal, unless you know everyone and DON'T cc the whole organization.
- Subject: Thank You & Farewell
- Body:
All,
As many of you know, today is my last day . Your experience . Soon, I will begin working for in XYZ. If you ever find yourself in XYZ, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My contact information is below. I wish you all the best, both personally and professionally.
myemail@email.com
(###) ###-####
Best,
I hope this makes your departure process easier!
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