Offboarding
Offboarding is the structured process through which an organisation transitions an employee out of the company. It encompasses all the steps necessary to ensure a smooth and respectful departure, including the transfer of knowledge, completion of exit formalities, and addressing post-employment considerations.
Purpose
The purpose of offboarding is to ensure a positive and professional end to the employment relationship, safeguard the company's assets and information, and maintain a positive alumni network.
- Maintains Relationships: Leaves departing employees with a positive view of the company, fostering a good alumni network.
- Knowledge Transfer: Facilitates the transfer of crucial information to other team members, ensuring continuity of operations.
- Gather Valuable Feedback: Conduct exit interviews to gather feedback on the team culture, working practices, and areas for improvement.
- Security and Compliance: Ensures that all company assets are returned, access is revoked, and legal requirements are met.
Context
Industry Context
15% of employees have 'boomeranged' back to a former employer, highlighting the importance of maintaining positive relationships during offboarding. But there is also the security risk side of offboarding, with 25% of businesses experiencing data breaches due to an ex-employee.
ZeroBlockers Context
ZeroBlockers is all about empowering people. Your past employees are your best brand ambassadors. By ensuring a positive offboarding experience, you can maintain a strong alumni network that can benefit the company in various ways, from referrals to rehires.
Methods
| Method | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Knowledge Transfer Sessions | Organising meetings or sessions for departing employees to transfer critical knowledge to their successors or team members. | Ensures continuity of work and retention of critical information. |
| Exit Interviews | Conducting interviews with departing employees to gather feedback on their experience. | Provides insights for organisational improvement and employee retention strategies. |
| Farewell & Recognition | Organise a team farewell activity to acknowledge the departing member's contributions and maintain positive relationships. | Fosters team morale and goodwill. |
| System Access Revocation | Deactivate the departing member's access to accounts, systems, and company resources. | Improves security and prevents unauthorised access. |
Anti-patterns
- Lack of Formal Process: Not having a structured offboarding process, leading to information loss and security risks.
- Neglecting Feedback: Not capturing or disregarding feedback from departing employees, missing opportunities for improvement.
