Work Basics: Offboarding
Last days are an opportunity to thank someone for their hard work. Here's how to do it right.
Animation in Vancouver is a small industry. You will very likely work with the same people again at different studios, so it is worth it to leave a good impression and keep the door open for future opportunities to work together!
- Determine if the person is leaving your studio entirely vs. moving to another show
- Ensure the supervisor is aware the artist is leaving
- Reassign artist's remaining work
- Strongly suggest to book first and last days into the calendar and have reminders so people remember to prepare!
- Remove person from relevant email, chat, Shotgrid groups, especially if they are just moving to another project within your studio
- If there is any other place your show tracks crew (say a Crew Tracker sheet), remove them and mark the last day according to your show's processes
- Send any offboarding questionnaires or post-mortems if relevant (or flag for exit interview if relevant)
- If this person has equipment to return, follow your studio's equipment return processes
- Reiterate studio demo reel policy
- Even if the person has not requested a reel, it is a good last reminder of the terms of your studio's NDA
- Write them a thank you email!
- You might include details like when they can expect their last pay cheque, demo reel policy (see above), and double check their name for credits (if applicable)
Further Learning
Episode 28: Exiting Gracefully of Don't Be a Jerk At Work
How an Exit Interview Changed My Career on Career Contessa
How to Resign From a Job with a Great Reference in Hand on Career Contessa
