Parting with Purpose: Crafting the Perfect Goodbye Email After a Layoff
Saying goodbye to a team after a layoff is never easy, but it’s also a unique opportunity to leave a lasting impression and maintain valuable connections. A thoughtfully crafted goodbye email can do more than just inform your colleagues about your departure—it can set the tone for future networking and keep doors open for new opportunities. In this post, I’ll guide you through writing a farewell message that expresses gratitude, maintains professionalism, and positions you for the next step in your career journey.
Here is a template to start with:
Hello team, I wanted to share some news with you. I’ve been informed that my time here is coming to an end due to organizational changes. I’m grateful for the chance I’ve had to work with such a talented, dedicated group, and I couldn’t be prouder of all we’ve achieved together. I truly believe in each of you and am confident that the team will continue to thrive. Please know that I’m here to support you in any way I can, even after I leave. Let’s stay connected, and thank you once again for everything!
Email:
Phone:
LinkedIn:
When sharing this news with your team, it’s essential to keep your message supportive and reassuring, acknowledging their work and contributions while also keeping the tone positive for their future. Here’s a suggested approach for crafting your message:
Express Gratitude: Thank your team for their hard work, commitment, and the impact they’ve had on the projects and organization. Let them know how much you’ve valued working with them and the support they’ve given you.
Stay Positive and Professional: While it’s natural to feel a range of emotions, keep your message focused on the positive moments and achievements shared with the team. Express that you’re proud of everything they’ve accomplished together.
Encourage Continuity and Confidence: Let them know that you believe in their capabilities to continue excelling, even in your absence. Reassure them that the team is in good hands and that they have the skills to navigate any challenges ahead.
Offer Support: If you’re comfortable doing so, let them know you’re open to staying in touch and would be happy to support them in their careers in the future, whether through mentorship, recommendations, or networking.
Share Your Perspective: Acknowledge that changes like this can be part of a career journey. Express that you’re approaching this as an opportunity to grow and that you’re hopeful for what’s next.
Personalization: Include one or two personal anecdotes or achievements that resonate with their team. For example:
“It’s been incredible to see how we tackled [specific project] together.”
“I’ll always remember the collaborative spirit you brought to [specific milestone].”