Why employers and employees should maintain a positive relationship after separating
When an employee resigns or is terminated, it can be tempting to burn bridges and move on. However, there are many benefits, both for employees and employers, to maintaining a positive relationship during and after the employment separation.
For the employee:
A positive relationship with a former employer can make it easier to get a good reference for future jobs.
It can also be helpful to stay in touch with former colleagues, who may be able to provide job leads or other professional advice.
A former employer may be willing to offer a contract or consulting work in the future.
If the employee ever decides to return to the company, they will be more likely to be welcomed back if they have a good relationship with their former colleagues and managers.
For the employer:
A positive relationship with former employees can help to improve the company's reputation.
It can also make it easier to recruit new employees, as former employees may be more likely to recommend the company to their friends and colleagues.
Former employees may be willing to provide feedback on the company's products or services.
If the company ever needs to hire a contractor or consultant, they may be able to tap into their network of former employees.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, maintaining a positive relationship with former employees can also help employers to:
Improve morale among current employees.
Foster a culture of trust and respect.
Gather feedback on the company culture and workplace environment.
Identify potential areas for improvement.
Reduce the risk of legal disputes.
Protect confidential information.
How to Maintain a Positive Relationship
There are a few things that employers and employees can do to maintain a positive relationship after an employment separation:
Be professional and courteous during the resignation or termination process.
Give the employee a good reference, if requested and appropriate.
Stay in touch with each other after the separation.
Don’t speak badly of the other party.
Be open to the possibility of working together again in the future.
🗝 The end of an employment relationship can be difficult. But it doesn’t have to be. Both parties stand to accrue many benefits from maintaining a positive relationship during and after the employment separation. Notably, employers and employees can build stronger networks, improve their reputations, and achieve their business and professional goals.
This article was originally published on LinkedIn on 8/228/23: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-employers-employees-should-maintain-positive-bill-leonard-mhrm/?trackingId=vnGgDGe3TyWbsTGYh2ZldA%3D%3D