Moving on from your workplace? Along with packing your favourite mug or organising a team lunch, a goodbye note should be on your last to-do list.
Whatever’s next for you, writing a few words of appreciation to your team is one way to leave on a good note.
Here Suzie McInerney, CEO of Six Degrees Executive shares her advice on writing a genuine, professional and positive farewell email.
McInerney recommends sending your email on your second last day. “This will give people time to reply if they wish to,” she says. “You may even be surprised to see who comes out of the woodwork to bid you adieu.”
Also, think carefully about who should receive your farewell communication. “Use your discretion about whether it’s appropriate to send a company-wide email or if it’s better to send to your immediate team only,” McInerney says.
Here’s a good starting point for you to customise with your own experience:
Email subject: Your Name – Time to move on
Dear colleagues,
Paragraph 1: Let your co-workers know that you’re leaving the company and when. Always mention the specific day you’ll be leaving, so your colleagues have the opportunity to say goodbye.
Paragraph 2: Thank your colleagues for their support. Mention that you’ve enjoyed working with them and you'll miss them. It's up to you whether you want to tell them what you will be doing next.
For example, “I have enjoyed my time at Star Real Estate and I would like to thank you for being such a great team to work with. I’ve appreciated all the support and encouragement you have given me during my time here.
“I will miss working with you but I’m looking forward to exploring my interest in event coordination in my next role at Premier Events.”
Paragraph 3: Let your colleagues know how they can contact you. Include your personal email address or phone number.
In the last paragraph, say thanks once more and take the opportunity to wish your team well.
Kind regards,
Your First Name