What to Say to Someone Resigning from Your Company as a CEO or Leader
As a CEO or leader, your words during an employee's resignation are crucial. They reflect your company culture, your respect for the individual, and can even impact the perception of your organization by those who remain. Here's what to aim for, broken down into key elements:
1. Acknowledge and Validate Their Decision:
Express understanding (without necessarily agreeing): "Thank you for letting me know about your decision to move on or "I understand this is a significant step for you." Avoid sounding overly negative or trying to dissuade them unless you genuinely believe there's a compelling reason and a chance they might reconsider.
Acknowledge their contributions:
"I appreciate you taking the time to share this news with me directly."
2. Express Gratitude for Their Contributions:
Be specific: Don't just say "thank you for your work." Mention specific projects, achievements, or positive qualities they brought to the team or company. "Your work on the X project was instrumental in achieving Y result," or "We've truly valued your [specific skill, e.g., problem-solving abilities, positive attitude]."
Highlight their impact:
"You've made a real difference to [team name/department/company]." or "Your contributions have helped us to [achieve a specific milestone]."
3. Wish Them Well in Their Future Endeavors:
Be sincere: "I wish you the very best in your new role and future endeavors." or "We sincerely wish you success and happiness in your next chapter."
Show genuine care: "I hope this new opportunity brings you the fulfillment and growth you're seeking."
It would be thoughtful to contribute to a group card as a team using wishweaver. It would be a great way to make them feel truly valued and appreciated.
4. Keep the Door Open (If Appropriate):
Consider the circumstances: This is optional and depends on the reason for their departure and your company culture.
Phrase it carefully: "We'd be happy to stay in touch," or "I hope our paths cross again in the future." Avoid making promises you can't keep or sounding insincere.
5. Discuss the Transition Process Professionally:
Focus on a smooth handover:"Let's discuss how we can ensure a smooth transition during your remaining time here."
Inquire about their needs: "Is there anything we can do to support you during this transition?"
6. Maintain a Positive and Professional Demeanor:
Your reaction sets the tone: Even if you're disappointed, maintain a calm, respectful, and professional attitude.
Avoid negativity or defensiveness: Don't take their departure personally or try to make them feel guilty.
Here are a few examples of what you could say, depending on the context:
Example 1 (Positive Departure for Growth):
> "[Employee Name], thank you for letting me know. I understand this is a great opportunity for you to grow in [their new field/role], and while we're sad to see you go, we genuinely wish you the very best. Your work on the [specific project] was invaluable, and we've always appreciated your [positive quality]. Please let's discuss how we can ensure a smooth handover in the coming weeks. We'd be happy to stay connected in the future, and we wish you all the success in your new chapter."
Example 2 (Resignation for Different Reasons):
> "[Employee Name], thank you for sharing your decision with me. I appreciate your directness. During your time here, you've contributed significantly to [mention a specific area]. We respect your decision to move in a different direction, and we wish you well in your future endeavors. Let's talk about the transition process and how we can support you during your remaining time here."
Example 3 (If you genuinely want them to reconsider - use cautiously):
> "[Employee Name], thank you for letting me know. I'm certainly sorry to hear that you're considering leaving, as we truly value your contributions, especially your work on [specific achievement]. I'd be interested to understand more about your reasons and if there's anything we could discuss or explore that might change your decision. Regardless, I want to thank you for your dedication and wish you the best in your future."
Key Takeaways:
Be genuine and sincere.
Focus on their contributions and future.
Maintain professionalism
Facilitate a smooth transition.
Your response as a leader in this moment can leave a lasting impression and contribute to a positive overall culture, even when someone is moving on.
One of the ways you can deliver a perfect farewell is through a WishWeaver card.