Why off-boarding matters

Off-boarding: An essential part of Employer Branding

Too often, companies focus on attracting people in order to build great teams.  The focus is on Employer Branding,  on how to attract and hire the best talents and when hires are being done, - hopefully, a well-crafted onboarding is being offered. But what happens when an employee leaves the company?

Off-boarding is a critical part of the employment cycle that is often overlooked, but its importance cannot be underestimated. We hear too often from candidates that they when leaving on their own or being asked to leave, do not experience a proper, and sometimes a non-existent Off-boarding process. 

Why is off-boarding important?

Companies invest enormous resources in building their employer brand and implementing advanced HR systems to support recruitment processes. Despite this, the candidate experience can be lost if off-boarding is not handled correctly. A poor off-boarding experience can damage the company’s reputation and negatively impact future recruitment.

Who is responsible for off-boarding?

A common question is: Who is responsible for off-boarding? Is it HR, the immediate supervisor, or the management? The truth is that everyone has a role to play. Management should be involved and ensure that there is a clear process in place. A simple thank you from the management, either personally or automated, can make a big difference.

Benefits of a good off-boarding strategy

Improved Employee Experience:

A positive ending can lead to former employees becoming ambassadors for the company. They can recommend the company to others and spread a good reputation.

Feedback and Improvement:

Off-boarding is an excellent opportunity to gather valuable feedback. This feedback can be used to improve the work environment and processes within the company.

Networks and Relationships:

Maintaining good relationships with former employees can open doors for future collaborations and rehires. A strong network of former employees can be an invaluable resource.

Specific situations

Reorganizations:

During reorganizations, structured off-boarding can reduce uncertainty and stress. It shows that the company cares about its employees, even when changes are necessary.

Resignations and Conflicts:

Handle sensitive situations with respect and professionalism. This can help avoid negative repercussions and preserve the company’s reputation.

Do not underestimate the importance of a Thank You

A thank you may seem like a small gesture, but its significance is enormous. When an employee leaves the company without receiving a thank you, they may share their negative experience with others. This can spread a negative image of the company, which in turn can affect both future recruitment and customer relationships. A negative experience can be passed on to customers and partners, leading to lost business opportunities.

So, what can you do to ensure a good off-boarding?

A good off-boarding strategy is not just a matter of politeness. It’s about building and maintaining the company’s reputation, improving the employee experience, and creating a strong network of former employees. By investing in a structured and empathetic off-boarding process, companies can ensure that they leave a positive impression, even when an employee leaves the company.

Interested to learn more about how Beyondo can assist you with all steps in the recruitment and employment cycle?