First things, first. Regardless of the circumstances of your leaving, if you are about to resign, your first responsibility is to let your employer know that you are resigning. You need to part on good terms and you don't want your boss hearing rumors of your departure through the grapevine.
The next step is to send a farewell message to co-workers and to let them know that you are moving on to a new position, starting a job search, retiring or doing something else with your life. It's appropriate to send an email farewell letter. You can include contact information so you can stay in touch.
How to Say Goodbye
Handle your departure as carefully as you would handle any other business endeavor. It's always wise to not burn bridges, because you don't know when you will need your past employers for a reference.
Review what to say and how to leave so your departure is polished and professional. If you're not sure what to write in your goodbye letter, review our sample resignation letters, resignation email message, and goodbye letters, then tailor one to meet to your circumstances.
Saying Farewell to Co-Workers
Once your boss knows you are leaving, it's fine to let your co-workers and colleagues know that you're moving on. Here are some tips for saying good-bye.
- Connect on LinkedIn - if you're not already connected with your colleagues on LinkedIn, now is a good time to make that connection.
- Say goodbye via email - send an email announcement or a LinkedIn message to co-workers you know well, not necessarily to the entire company. Especially if there are thousands of employees.
- Keep your message brief and to the point. Do not include a long dissertation on how you hated your job and couldn't stand working for the company. Don't include the fact that you're making oodles of money at the new job, even if it's true. There is no need to criticize or brag. You want to move forward and say farewell in a positive manner.
- Do mention projects you have worked on together or special times you've enjoyed together. This farewell letter is casual and personal, rather than official.
- Include personal contact information, including email address and phone, so your co-workers can stay in touch.
- Review these sample farewell letters to get an idea of how to say goodbye when you're not sure what to write.
When You Have Been Fired or Laid Off
If you've been fired or laid off and want to let you co-workers know you're leaving, and you still have email access, you can send an even briefer email letter. Let them know you'll be moving on. Ask for job search assistance, if it's appropriate, and provide your personal contact information, so, they can get in touch.
Be Brief
In summary, when leaving a position, keep your good-byes short and sweet. Don't go overboard, in any direction. Do make sure you notify those co-workers that need to know that you're leaving and make sure they know how to get in touch with you after you're gone.