This video (h/t Manager Tools) shows an Apple employee leaving on his last day. Everyone in the store claps for him. Celebrates him. Not only employees. Customers too.
I cannot think of a better way to illustrate an organization’s culture by how they welcome and say goodbye to employees. How wonderful would the departing employee feel if they received this sort of celebration? What message would they carry forward about how their time and contribution was acknowledged by their peers and bosses?
What would the positive culture impact be on the employees who remain at the company?
I have experienced perhaps the other end of the spectrum when departing organizations.
- One boss told me she thought I would fail in my next role. On my last day. After I extended my notice period by 2 weeks on her request.
- One very corporate environment did not allow for group goodbyes; I had to walk cube to cube and initiate the goodbyes I cared most about. While HR supervised.
- And one boss did not even say goodbye or thank you on the day of my departure.
It’s not challenging for all of us to do better. To celebrate the time we spend together. To create the culture we desire.
What are some of your farewell horror stories? What can we learn from them? Share yours at LinkedIn.
#offboarding #employeeexperience #nonprofit
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