Exiting the Office? Nail Your Last Working Day Message to Your Manager

03 Aug 2024

So, you've reached the summit of Mount Job-Departure. You've tossed your resignation confetti, you've trained your replacement (maybe even a monkey with a spreadsheet could handle it now), and you can practically taste the freedom waiting for you beyond those office walls. But before you ride off into the sunset of unemployment (or, more likely, onto the exciting plains of a new career), there's one last task: the final email to your soon-to-be-former manager.

It might seem like a formality, a digital handshake on your way out the door. But think of it more like a final investment. A well-crafted last working day message isn't just about goodbyes; it's about solidifying your professional reputation and leaving a positive mark that could pay dividends down the road. Remember, the working world is a surprisingly small village, and you never know when your paths might cross again.

Before you hit 'send' on a message that screams "See ya, wouldn't wanna be ya!", take a moment to consider the bigger picture. This isn't just about getting out the door five minutes faster. This is about crafting a message that reflects the best version of your professional self, one that leaves a positive final impression. Think of it as a mini-legacy project, a tiny monument to your time at the company.

The key? Keep it concise, keep it classy, and most importantly, keep it positive. This isn't the time to air grievances (you had your exit interview for that, remember?) or launch into a laundry list of complaints about the office coffee. Instead, focus on the good stuff: express gratitude for the opportunities you've been given, highlight key learnings, and maybe even throw in a compliment about that awesome office plant you always secretly admired.

Remember, your last working day message to your manager isn't just an email, it's an investment in your future. So ditch the temptation to be flippant or dismissive. Take the time to craft a message that is professional, appreciative, and sets the right tone for your departure. You've worked hard, you've earned your escape, now make sure your farewell email is the cherry on top of your well-deserved exit sundae.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Well-Crafted Message

Advantages	Disadvantages
Leaves a positive lasting impression	Taking the time to write it thoughtfully
Reinforces your professionalism	None, really! It's always a good idea to be professional.
Can help maintain a strong professional network

Best Practices for an Awesome Farewell Email

1. Keep it Brief (But Not Brusque): Nobody wants to wade through a novel on your way out. Aim for a few short paragraphs that are to the point.

2. Gratitude is Key: Thank your manager for the opportunities, support, and even the challenges you faced during your time there. It goes a long way.

3. Highlight Your Growth: Briefly mention key skills you developed or projects you're proud of. It reinforces your value and contribution.

4. Keep it Positive (Really!): Resist the urge to vent, even subtly. Focus on the good and maintain a professional tone.

5. Offer Help with Transition: Briefly mention your willingness to help with the handover process. It demonstrates your commitment and professionalism.

Common Questions About Last Working Day Messages:

1. What if my relationship with my manager wasn't great?

Even if your manager was the human embodiment of a tension headache, keep the message neutral and professional. Focus on the positive aspects of the job itself.

2. Can I mention my new job?

You can briefly mention your next step in a general way ("excited to pursue a new opportunity in..."). No need for specifics unless your manager asks.

3. Should I send it to the whole company?

A company-wide farewell email is usually unnecessary unless you worked very closely with everyone. A personal note to your team is a nice touch though.

4. What's the best time to send it?

Aim to send it on your last day or the day before. This ensures everyone has a chance to see it.

5. Can I ask for a LinkedIn recommendation?

If you've had a good relationship, your last working day message is a good opportunity to subtly remind your manager that you'd appreciate a recommendation. Keep it brief and professional.

6. What if I was let go?

If your departure wasn't your choice, a brief, professional message thanking your manager and colleagues for the experience is still a good idea.

7. Should I include personal contact info?

It's up to you, but including your personal email or LinkedIn profile allows colleagues to stay in touch.

8. Can I write it in the third person?

Stick to a first-person voice for a more genuine and personal touch.

Tips and Tricks for Extra Awesomeness

- Proofread, proofread, proofread! Typos are never a good look, especially in your final email.

- If appropriate, inject a bit of your personality. A lighthearted comment or a shared joke can make your message more memorable (while still staying professional!).

- Consider sending individual thank-you notes to colleagues who made a significant impact on your experience.

Leaving a job is a big life event, and your last working day message to your manager is a chance to leave a positive final mark on this chapter of your career. By crafting a message that is professional, appreciative, and genuine, you not only solidify your reputation but also leave the door open for potential future opportunities. So take the time to write a message that reflects the best of your professional self – it's an investment worth making.