Endings are always characterized by a gamut of emotion. Regardless of whether it is sudden or it is well thought out and elaborately planned with sufficient notice, nothing quite prepares you for the sudden wave of sadness that suddenly hits you, especially if you are the one being left behind.
In the work environment, it is not quite different. Numerous warnings and instructions to maintain strict professionalism does not deter friendships from forming, because human beings generally crave connection – and human bonds are rarely formed deliberately but are often the result of prevailing circumstances that are usually beyond human manipulation.
All this in consideration, goodbyes are important – if not for any other reason, it is polite and carries the underlying message ‘I respect and regard you and our time together has been wonderful’. And what better way to lift the clouds than with a subtle reminder that they are important.
So, if you are in the tough spot of being the one to say goodbye, Here are a few tips for writing an adequate farewell note/letter/email to your soon-to-be former colleagues;
- Stay Positive
Resist the urge to highlight the negatives of your experience at the organization – it won’t leave a good impression of the quality of your person. Keep it as light and fun as possible.
- Keep It Brief
Get to the point of your message and stay on target, even if you mention your future plans do not exhaust any more than just a few paragraphs.
- Include Contact Information
It may surprise you what additional connections you may form just on the basis of your leaving the organization – make sure they do not have trouble reaching you.
- Make It Personal
It would be even more special if you did not send a mass, cliché message, but you took a few seconds to not only personalize the letter but also include bits and pieces of information specific to each individual. It may not be necessary to send the message to everyone if you worked in a large company, but only those you worked directly with.
- Send It Before Leaving
Give your colleagues sufficient time to say goodbye to you properly. Remember, goodbyes are not so much about you, as it is about them.
Sample Farewell Letter:
Dear Mary,
I thought you would like to know that I would be leaving my position at ABD industries tomorrow, as it would be my last day at work.
I have thoroughly enjoyed working for this organization, and your warmth and friendliness made it an even more memorable experience. I am extremely grateful for it and I hope I am remembered in such good light.
While I will miss working with you, as with the rest of ABD staff, I am looking forward to a new position that with bring its own unique perks and peculiar challenges.
I sincerely wish you the best in your own endeavors.
You can stay in touch with me via –
Email – johndoe@gmail.com
Or call me on – 123545628
I will look forward to hearing from you.
Warm regards,
John Doe.
Goodbyes are hard enough as it is. Make it easier for people who look out for your best interest.
