Ending Employment Well
Here’s a blind spot many teams are not aware of.
We spend a lot of energy on hiring well, but what about ending employment well?
How you handle departures says everything about your culture.
They set an expectation for the team that remains. Cold or awkward goodbyes send an implicit message: “This is how you may be treated when it’s your turn.”
And yet, a strong sense of belonging and psychological safety is crucial for high team engagement.
What if we reimagined professional goodbyes?
1/ Address doubts early
If someone isn’t thriving (you or a teammate), don’t let it linger. It harms both them and the team.
Share any concerns candidly and compassionately, even when they’re still small.
2/ Be transparent
Much of the fear and pain around departures comes from unexpected, one-sided decisions.
Build trust so both sides feel safe sharing doubts about continuing together. This creates a chance to improve the collaboration or optimize how it ends.
3/ Make it a win-win
Commit as a team: always expect full engagement from departing teammates until the last day, and treat them like any other team member.
4/ End well together
As employer, help the person find their dream job.
As employee, offer the courtesy of an exit interview.
And always create a clear closing moment, even if it’s a simple one.
Goodbyes don’t have to be awkward. They can be intentional, respectful, and even inspiring.
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