Workplace Basics: Offboarding

Here is how to prepare for an artist's last day on your show




Last days are an opportunity to thank someone for their hard work. 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!




This list is largely concerned with two types of last days: the first is if your artist is leaving your studio entirely, and the second is if they are moving to another project within your studio.

This video and transcript does not cover processes for when someone is fired; this process can vary widely depending on the studio and will be handled by upper production management. 


Another important part is to ensure that your superiors in Production and the Supervisor is aware the person is leaving. It seems obvious and it's always better to double check that everyone is on the same page, particularly if the person in question is has their last day leading up to a long weekend, near any statutory holidays, or if the person has been helping out with another team or project. 



Offboarding Checklist

  • 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

  • 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, post-mortems, or book them for an 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)



With regards to the last item on the checklist, a thank you email, it can be short and sweet. Andrew Hill says in Be Quick - But Don’t Hurry!: Finding Success in the Teachings of a Lifetime:


Crediting others is of paramount importance when you’re involved in any creative endeavour. The people in your organization must feel your approval and support to do their best work.

- from Be Quick - But Don’t Hurry!: Finding Success in the Teachings of a Lifetime by Andrew Hill with John Wooden




FURTHER LEARNING AND RESOURCES

VIDEO: The Importance of Listening at Work

VIDEO: Complete Sentences for Clear Work Communication 

VIDEO: Daily Habits for Improving Self-Awareness and Conversations

3 Phrases to Drop: Work Edition

Tough Questions: How Do I Ask for a Reference?

Be Quick - But Don’t Hurry!: Finding Success in the Teachings of a Lifetime by Andrew Hill with John Wooden

This video is based on this blog post elsewhere on the yak occidental



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