avatarLucia Landini

Summary

The article outlines four essential steps for writing a thoughtful goodbye email to coworkers when leaving a job.

Abstract

Writing a goodbye email to colleagues is an important aspect of ending a work relationship on a positive note. The article emphasizes the necessity of composing a farewell message, regardless of one's feelings towards the company or coworkers. It advises keeping the email brief, maintaining a positive tone, expressing gratitude for the experience and the people, and providing personal contact information for future connections. The author also warns against excluding anyone from the message and suggests avoiding detailed explanations about the new job or negative experiences.

Opinions

  • The author acknowledges a personal mistake of not properly saying goodbye in a past job and emphasizes the importance of not repeating such behavior.
  • It is suggested that not writing a farewell email could be perceived as neglectful and stingy, and it could cause confusion among colleagues.
  • The article conveys that gratitude should be shown to all colleagues, not just a select few, to prevent any feelings of exclusion.
  • Including personal contact information in the goodbye email is seen as a courteous gesture to maintain professional relationships beyond the current workplace.

4 Steps To Take To Write A Nice Goodbye Email To Your Coworkers

Miss you

Photo by Mantas Hesthaven on Unsplash

I still remember the mistake I made when I left my last job, years ago. Unfortunately, our boss was seriously ill in hospital and I couldn’t tell him about my decision, so the company asked me to keep it secret and not to share it with the others. I only informed my colleagues on my last day in that company, without even giving a little party or writing an email. I still regret it, and some of my ex-colleagues told me they were hurt and offended by my behavior.

It’s always difficult to put an end to a work relationship. Even if you’re happy and excited about your new job, it’s important to leave on good terms, respect everybody and avoid burning bridges.

Even writing the perfect farewell email is not easy, but there are some points to keep in mind.

1.Don’t forget to write it. You might not have enjoyed working for the company you are leaving, or you might not like your colleagues, but not writing a farewell email is a sign of neglect.

Besides it, your colleagues might not know that you left, they might look for you if they need your help at work, and keep wasting their time waiting for your reaction. It might also appear as a sign of stinginess: maybe you just don’t want to spend money on a little party before leaving.

2.Keep it short and show gratitude. Be brief and use a positive tone. Avoid giving too many details, or showing too much excitement about your new opportunity. Avoid any recriminations, or reference to difficult times. Show gratitude for your experience with the company and the opportunity you had to work with talented individuals.

3.Don’t mention people. Another step to avoid is mentioning and thanking only some people in your email, and not others. It is ok only if they are your direct colleagues, then you can share a good memory, or a compliment.

4. Don’t forget your contact information. You’ll no longer have access to your work email, so if you want to keep in touch with them, share your personal email address, and your phone number if you like.

Be nice, say thank you, and gently close the door behind you. Good luck with your new job!

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