Leaving a company can be an emotional and challenging time. As you move on to new opportunities, it’s important to thoughtfully consider what to write on LinkedIn to update your connections, summarize your experience, and set the right tone.
Should I announce my departure on LinkedIn?
There are a few things to consider when deciding whether to announce your departure on LinkedIn:
- It’s common practice. Most people use LinkedIn to share their career changes and transitions.
- It allows you to get ahead of the story. You can frame the narrative in your own words versus having others speculate.
- It expands your visibility. A departure post can lead to new connections, job leads, and advice.
- There may be business reasons not to. In some cases, it’s better to wait to announce a departure externally.
Overall, it’s generally recommended to share major career updates on LinkedIn, as long as you do it thoughtfully and strategically.
How soon should I announce my departure?
As for timing, it’s typical to announce your departure on or after your last day at the company. Here are some general guidelines:
- Give your manager a heads up. Before going public, speak with your manager and align on timing.
- Wait until any internal announcement. You don’t want your LinkedIn post to be the first place people learn you’re leaving.
- Avoid announcing too far in advance. Two weeks’ notice is fairly standard — don’t share the news months before your last day.
- Post on or after your last day. It’s appropriate to share the news of your transition once you’ve officially departed.
Work closely with your manager to land on the right timeframe. The priority is ensuring the company has time to communicate the transition internally before you share the news wider.
What’s the best way to structure the LinkedIn post?
When drafting your departure announcement post, it’s important to come across as genuine, professional, and thoughtful. Here are some tips:
- Thank colleagues and the company. Express your gratitude for the opportunities you were given.
- Highlight accomplishments. Recap one or two proud career moments or contributions you made.
- Explain your reason for leaving. Share your next move, if you have one, or say you are seeking new challenges.
- Keep it positive. Avoid venting frustrations or negativity about your experience.
- Invite connections. Encourage people to stay in touch by connecting with you.
Focus the post on your own growth, contributions, and next chapters. Here is a sample template:
Sample Departure Post
After [duration] at [Company], today is my last day. What an incredible experience it has been to [accomplishment 1] and [accomplishment 2].
I’m so grateful to all my talented colleagues for [contributions to my success]. I had the opportunity to learn so much from this team.
[Optional: Explain reason for departure, new opportunity, or future plans]
Please connect with me on LinkedIn as I [look forward to new challenges or explore what’s next in my career]. I’d love to stay in touch.
Thank you again to [Company] leadership and the entire team. I’m proud of [what we achieved together] and wish you all the best.
Should I reflect on challenges or difficulties?
It’s better to steer clear of venting about negative experiences or challenges you faced. Here’s why:
- It can come across as unprofessional. You want to take the high road.
- It can damage relationships. Current colleagues may see your post.
- It can hurt your brand. Venting can leave a negative impression.
- The post lives on. That frustration you share today may not be how you feel tomorrow.
Instead, maintain a positive tone. If you faced difficulties, vaguely allude to seeking “new challenges” or “a change.” Don’t dig into the messy details.
Should I say where I’m going next?
Whether to share your next move depends on your situation:
- If you have something lined up, feel free to announce it. Just ensure you’ve formally accepted any new position.
- If between roles, you can say you’re currently exploring new opportunities.
- If taking time off, you can share that detail. For example, “Taking some personal time before my next challenge.”
The goal is to satisfy curiosity about what you’re doing next without overpromising or sharing news prematurely. If you don’t yet have your next step confirmed, keep it vague.
How can I frame my tenure positively?
With some thoughtful framing, you can highlight your tenure positively:
- Emphasize growth. “I was able to grow my skills in X and Y.”
- Celebrate wins. “I’m proud that I helped achieve [results for company].”
- Note value gained. “I learned so much working on [important initiatives].”
- Spotlight great connections. “I had the privilege to collaborate with many talented leaders.”
Keep the focus on accomplishments, relationships built, and personal/professional development. This maintains positivity and professionalism.
Should I offer to help with the transition?
It can be thoughtful to offer assistance transitioning your responsibilities once you depart. Some options include:
- Offering to help hire or train your replacement
- Summarizing work in progress to hand off
- Introducing key contacts to whoever takes over your projects
- Making yourself available to answer occasional questions
phrase the offer conservatively: “I’m happy to help with the transition where I can.” Don’t overcommit your time or availability. Set clear boundaries so your help is bounded and controlled.
What should I avoid saying?
Here are some things to steer clear of in your departure announcement:
What to Avoid | Better Alternatives |
---|---|
Criticizing the company, management, or policies | Focusing on positives like professional growth and relationships |
Venting about frustrations | Stating you are seeking new challenges |
Comparing to new opportunity (if you have one) | Keeping the post company-focused |
Badmouthing colleagues | Thanking the team |
Announcing before having accepted a new role | Waiting until new role is secured |
Err on the side of positivity and discretion. This will allow you to look back fondly and prevent relationship damage.
How can I follow up after posting?
After announcing your departure on LinkedIn, follow up proactively:
- Thank everyone who commented with support and kind words
- Respond to any colleagues asking to connect directly via email or phone
- SendMessage key coworkers you want to include in your ongoing network
- Consider following former leaders and mentors so you stay connected
The announcement post is just the start. Make sure you continue conversations in the comments and afterwards via direct outreach.
Conclusion
When handling your work transition on LinkedIn:
- Work closely with your manager on timing and messaging
- Keep the tone positive and focused on your contributions
- Share your departure once you’ve officially left the company
- Use it as a chance to celebrate accomplishments and relationships
- Mindfully frame your tenure and reason for leaving
Announcing your departure with care and intentionality will allow you to move on positively while maintaining valued connections.