You will leave your employer at some point in your career to pursue growth, a better salary or better benefits. This means that you will halt all official interactions with your previous employer’s clients and sometimes suppliers and other service providers.
If you have established good relationships with clients, it is normal to feel conflicted and somewhat nostalgic. At the same time, you want to retain professionalism and maintain good relationships because you might need them in future.
Here are tips on how to leave your company and maintain good relationships
Introduce Your Replacement Where Possible
Your clients and service providers enjoyed a cordial and fruitful relationship with you. They would like to know that they are in good hands and their needs will still be met now that you are leaving. It is comforting to the client to know the name, contact information and a little background of your replacement.
Tie Any Loose Ends
Try as much as possible to finish up on projects that you were working on. Leave all details in a clear handover document to the relevant stakeholders with precise information on who will be handling what section of the project.
Tell Your Clients of Your Departure
Send your clients an email announcing your departure and introducing your replacement. Do not feel the need to explain your departure or your decision. Less is more in this case. Mention how much you have enjoyed working with them and your hopes to meet them in the future.
Below is a sample of Farewell Email to Clients
Email Subject: Farewell
Dear Clara,
I hope you are well. I am writing to inform you that I will be leaving XYZ Company on Oct 20, 2019, to pursue other career opportunities.
I sincerely enjoyed working with you for the past 2 years. Your insightful observations and cheerful nature were instrumental in improving our services. Please feel free to contact me on 0721345678, or through my personal email email – johnmaina@gmail.com.
I am leaving you in the capable hands of my colleague Carol who will be now in charge of your account.
It has been an immense pleasure working with you and I wish you and your company all the best in your future endeavors.
Yours Sincerely,
(Signature)
John Maina
Communicate in Good Time
Do not wait till last minute to communicate your intentions with your clients. Let your clients know as soon as you tell your colleagues. This will give them enough time to reach out in case they need any clarification. It will also save you the complexities of explaining your situation after your clients hear about your departure on the grapevine.
First Ask…
Find out what the protocol is in your company. Some companies consider clients as part of their property, hence they prefer to do the communication. Ask your supervisor first before reaching out to your clients. This way, you will avoid any last-minute wrangles with your boss and also maintain a good relationship with him. Also, follow up and ensure your previous company reaches out to your former clients to make the announcement so that you don’t look unprofessional.
