How to Say Farewell to Co-Workers

By Alison Doyle

Job Vacancy Indonesia, Employee, Vacancy   

You have lost your job or you've found a new one and you're moving on. As you depart, it's important to take the time to say farewell to your co-workers. Both to let them know you're leaving or have left and because you want to be able to stay in touch and provide them with your personal contact information.

The Best Way to Say Farewell

What's the best way to say farewell to your co-workers? Don't send a mass email. Instead, send personalized individual emails or messages via LinkedIn, rather than group messages, so your farewell message is personal. You can use one of these sample farewell letters to let colleagues, clients, and your connections know that you are moving on.

Tips for Saying Farewell to Co-Workers

• Connect on LinkedIn - Be sure your LinkedIn account includes your personal email address, not your work address. Then, if you're not already connected with your colleagues on LinkedIn, connect now.
• Friend on Facebook - When you are friends with your co-workers, make sure you're connected on Facebook, too. Especially now that you're not working together, the boundaries between work and your personal life are gone.
• Say goodbye via LinkedIn or email - send an email message or a LinkedIn message to the co-workers you know well, not necessarily to the entire company.
• Keep your message brief and to the point. Don't go into details (positive or negative) about why you're leaving. Just let your co-workers know you're leaving, and if you're so inclined, offer to help during the transition.
• Do mention projects you have worked on together or events you have enjoyed together. This farewell letter is personal rather than formal.
• Include your contact information - include your LinkedIn URL, your email address, and your phone number in your message, so your co-workers can stay in touch.
• Take a look at our sample farewell letters to get advice on how to say goodbye.

Fired or Laid Off?

Even though it may feel awkward, if you have been fired or laid off it's still a good idea let you co-workers know you're leaving or gone. If 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.