It is one of the most sought-after goals for organisations: talent that is enthusiastic, engaged and satisfied. Yet it happens that this talent decides to leave. But why do employees leave? Sometimes it is a new challenge, personal circumstances, or simply a better match elsewhere. Although the departure of an employee is a natural course of action, it does not mean that the bond with this colleague has to be lost. On the contrary, the way the departure is organised - the off-boarding - offers unique opportunities to positively maintain and even strengthen the relationship.
The power of a positive departure
When employees say goodbye in a positive way, it can lead to authentic word-of-mouth promotion. A colleague who leaves feeling good is likely to share this with others, which has a positive effect on your organisation. A thoughtful off-boarding is also a powerful way to strengthen your employer brand. Employees who feel appreciated when they leave take this feeling with them to their next job, making them ambassadors for your organisation.
An employee's last weeks are a valuable time to gather feedback, evaluate collaborations and pick up areas for improvement. But more importantly, this is the time to leave a lasting, positive impression. Therefore, make sure the off-boarding is handled not only professionally, but also personally. A meaningful farewell, tailored to the employee's unique story, enhances the sense of pride and appreciation. At Goals, we call this the 'red carpet effect': an approach that is fully in line with your employer brand and puts the departing employee in the spotlight. This way, every departing colleague becomes an ambassador for the future of your organisation.
Why do employees leave?
Employees leave an organisation for various reasons. Common causes are:
- Seeking new professional challenges.
- Lack of advancement opportunities.
- A mismatch in work culture or values.
- Personal circumstances, such as a move or family expansion.
- The feeling of insufficient appreciation or recognition.
By understanding why employees leave, you can improve processes and better retain talent. But even when you cannot retain employees, you can ensure they leave feeling positive and as ambassadors of your organisation.
From employees to ambassadors
Ambassadorship does not end with employment. An employee who is proud and engaged continues to promote your organisation positively - even after leaving. This is why a good off-boarding is so important. Here are some tips to empower both departing and current employees as ambassadors:
- Provide an inspiring goal
Employees want to know where the organisation is going and how they can contribute to the bigger picture. This sense of purpose encourages engagement, even after leaving. - Executives as role models
Leaders play a crucial role in sharing the organisational story and encouraging ambassadorship. By leading by example, they inspire employees to do the same. - Make employees proud
Show employees the impact they have made. Acknowledge their contributions and give them the confidence to share this story with pride, both during their employment and afterwards. - Tell powerful stories
Use appealing stories that employees can share. This increases their enthusiasm and helps inspire others. - Reward ambassadors
Recognise and reward employees who actively act as ambassadors. This can range from personal appreciation to deploying special programmes or incentives.
An opportunity for growth
With a well-organised off-boarding you can not only make employee departures positive, but also strengthen your organisation's reputation. Employees who feel valued will spread this experience throughout their network and become powerful ambassadors. So the next time an employee decides to leave, don't see it as the end, but as an opportunity to leave a lasting positive impression.
Wondering how your organisation can create a strong off-boarding-process and why leaving employees feeling good is crucial? Get in touch to find out how we can help turn every departing colleague into an ambassador.
