Blueprint #28: The Power of Positive Departures: A Lesson Learned working at Apple

‍Lesson: Departures don’t have to be sad

Have you ever stopped to think about how companies handle employee departures? Often, it's a quiet affair – someone gives notice, packs up their desk, and fades into the background. But what if there was a way to turn goodbyes into a positive experience for everyone involved?

Imagine this – a team member announces they're moving on to a new opportunity. Instead of hushed goodbyes, the entire team gathers around, offering a round of applause and well wishes!

This is what Apple does for every employee. During my time managing the Palo Alto store in 2010-2011, this will forever be my most memorable moment. It sent a powerful message – the company values its employees, not just for their work but also as individuals. This fosters a sense of psychological safety within the team, where everyone feels comfortable taking risks and knowing they'll be supported, even when their journey takes them elsewhere.

Insight: Graceful Endings Benefit Everyone

Think beyond the departing employee. Witnessing this positive send-off sends a strong signal to the remaining team. They see that their contributions are valued, and that they too will be celebrated when their paths take a different turn. This builds trust, loyalty, and a sense of belonging within the team, creating a more positive and productive work environment for everyone.

Action Item: Reimagine the Goodbye

While you might not have a company-wide "clap-out" tradition, there are ways to inject more positivity into departures. Consider hosting a small team lunch in the departing member's honor, or taking a moment during a team meeting to share their accomplishments and offer well wishes. These small gestures can make a big difference in fostering a supportive and positive work environment that support this concept of tours of duty that allow for growing relationships even in departure.

Let’s Build,

Young

Interested in seeing my departure from Apple? Follow me on Linkedin.

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