So I was thinking about what it meant to write a good "farewell letter" to a company when you don't plan on coming back. And I came up with some options.
(1) write a letter with a bunch of pictures and recap good experiences with co-workers
(2) personally say goodbye to everyone to let them know about your new opportunity
(3) write a simple farewell email
(4) not do anything
Once I had the possible options, I started thinking practically about what would be the best option regardless of personal feelings at the time of departure. So let's work through them:
Option (4):
Note: I do not recommended Option 4!
If a co-worker left without saying anything, it would cause negative emotions since a lot of people would naturally feel like they may have been slighted, forgotten, or disrespected.
Option (1):
Would be trying too hard. People will think you are trying too hard to be their friend, and although it would lead to a flurry of well wishes and goodbyes, it's not the norm and thus would be viewed skeptically by many. Also, it's possible this could backfire, as many people would view this as a popularity grab, especially for someone who's about to leave the company.
Option (2):
This is the option I prefer the most. You want to create a one on one connection when you're leaving, and all it takes is a "It was really nice working with you I look forward to seeing you again in the future." or " Let's keep in touch" and you just shake their hand and he say goodbye and then you'll be on your fucking merry way. Unless you're a celebrity, or someone everyone hates, this is the best option for a farewell.
Option (3):
This is the lesser, easier version of Option (2). A bit less personal, but just as effective.
KEYWORDS: (2) working (2) people (15) reciprocate (3) connection (2) celebrity (3) goodbye (7) option (7) awesome (2) picture (3) create (3) leaving (10) communication (1) thinking (6) reciprocation (3) matter (2) leave (10) merry (2) shake (3) thing (4) bunch (2) working (5) email (2) heads (2) impression (1) Email (2)