Buzz
Secured a new job but unsure how to inform your current colleagues? We’ve got you covered. From figuring out who to talk to first, to deciding what to say and when to share, we’ll guide you through the entire process. Continue reading for a complete rundown on notifying coworkers you're leaving, plus sample emails for your convenience.
Steps
Steps for Informing Your Coworkers About Your Departure
First, formally resign to your boss before informing your colleagues. Arrange a one-on-one meeting with your manager to resign in person. Ideally, give at least two weeks' notice, or longer if you hold a senior role. Collaborate with your supervisor to determine what tasks need to be completed before you leave and which ones should be reassigned to other team members.
- For example, you could say: “I’ve greatly appreciated my time here and the chance to grow professionally, but I’m ready for a new challenge. My last day will be May 27th, and I’d like to formally give you my notice.”
- Alternatively: “While my time at Acme Media has been fulfilling, I’m excited for the next step in my career. I’m resigning to take on a new role, and my final day with the company will be June 1st.”
- If your company has an HR department, your next step should be to inform them as well.
Let your coworkers know about a week before you leave. If you share the news too early, it might create awkwardness when you interact with them at the office. Wait until you’re nearing the end of your current projects and preparing for your departure to inform everyone.
- However, don’t wait until your very last day to make the announcement. Give your colleagues enough time to adjust to the change, especially if they need to redistribute your workload to others.
Inform close colleagues in person. Plan a coffee or lunch outing to privately share the news with your coworkers. You can either meet individually or organize a small gathering. Telling your close colleagues face-to-face shows that you appreciate the relationship.
- "I’ve got some important news. I’ve accepted a position with Morgan & Smith, and I’ll be leaving at the end of the month. It’s been great working with all of you, and I’ve learned so much.”
- "I wanted to let you know that Friday will be my final day here. I’m heading back to school for my graduate degree, but I’ll certainly miss working with you.”
Send an email to the rest of your team. If your team is large, it’s acceptable to send an email notifying everyone of your departure instead of speaking to each person individually. Write a brief note explaining that you’ve accepted a new role and include your last working day.
- If you’re involved in ongoing projects, reach out to the relevant coworkers individually. Reassure them that you’ll finish up your tasks and let them know who will take over if your supervisor has reassigned the work.
- If your role involves clients, it’s wise to notify those you’ve worked with closely. Check with your boss to make sure they’re aligned, as they’ll inform you about who will handle the accounts or projects moving forward, so you can relay that information to the clients.
Stay professional and optimistic. Even if you're leaving because you're unhappy or the environment was difficult, refrain from speaking negatively about the company or colleagues. Instead, focus on the positive aspects or mention what you gained from your time in the role.
- Ensure that you leave a good impression by completing outstanding tasks, answering any questions from colleagues, and training your replacement if asked by your boss.
- Work diligently until your last day and make sure your workspace and files are well-organized for the person who will step into your position.
Keep your messages short and straightforward. You don’t need to provide extensive details. Simply letting your coworkers know that you’re moving on is sufficient. Avoid discussing the specifics of your new role, such as salary or benefits, or going into too much detail about the new position.
Provide your contact details. Share your phone number with close colleagues and connect with others on LinkedIn. This way, you’ll be able to maintain those valuable relationships and expand your professional network even further.
Sample Emails for Coworkers
Dear Team, As my final day at Evers Law Firm draws near, I wanted to let you know that June 1st will be my last day here. After four fantastic years with the firm, I’m excited to take on a new challenge. It’s been an absolute pleasure working alongside all of you, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything I’ve learned. If you’d like to keep in touch, feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/AeshaRodgers or via email at [email protected]. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you need anything before I leave. Best regards, Aesha Rodgers.
Dear Spark Marketing Team, I’m writing to let you know that I’ll be leaving Spark at the end of this week. While I’m excited about what’s next, I’ll truly miss all the incredible people here. It’s been an unforgettable 8 years, and I’ve cherished every moment working with you all. I’d love to stay in touch—reach me at [email protected] or on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/seanalbright. Wishing you all continued success! Best, Sean Albright.
