I'm changing teams at work. How do I show appreciation to my old team?

December 8, 2008 8:07 PM

My department at work is restructuring, and it was just announced today that I am moving to another team. How can I show my team that I've loved working with them, and that I truly appreciate everything that they have taught me?

I have been working for the same department since I started with a certain company six months ago. Before that, I was going to college. How can I maintain close ties with my current teammates, and let them know how much I appreciate what they have taught me? There are probably about 12 people on my team. I am much closer to some than others. Can you think of any team gifts I could buy, or is there a different/better way to show my appreciation?

posted by speedoavenger to Human Relations (5 answers total)

I'd take 'em out to lunch. Or, if you're flush with cash, dinner. Or, if you're all thirsty, beers. My team at work was split up in July and we all went out together for one final lunch, which was really fun and left me with a good feeling about the team although I'd had my dissatisfactions with a couple of them during our time together.

In terms of maintaining close ties, it's as simple as scheduling a recurring group lunch (you shouldn't pay for this every time) or if you're in a profession where this is useful, starting a reading group. I'm on a reading group with a current teammate that's made up of people he's worked with over his five years at our company. Almost all of them were strangers to me when I joined the group. I also do monthly tea with some women I did a rotational program with (we call it "girls' tea" which ensures only men really, really secure in their masculinity have any interest in attending). It's easy to stay in touch with your old team if you're committed to it and they are too.
posted by crinklebat at 8:21 PM on December 8, 2008

You are wise to do this. Not only is it nice, but those ties are important in a company and you will find a need to call on these people and they will be there for you.

Are you a supervisor? This changes things a bit.
posted by Ironmouth at 8:48 PM on December 8, 2008

Booze.
posted by tiburon at 9:18 PM on December 8, 2008

Train your replacement and help with transition.

If you don't leave your former team in the lurch, they'll remember you fondly.
posted by 26.2 at 1:13 AM on December 9, 2008

Response by poster: Hey everyone,

I ended up inviting everyone on my team to go out for a round of drinks on me! Not everyone could make it, but the people that came out with me had a great time. We drank beer, played pool, and listened to some good music. I'm really glad I did it.

Thank you everyone for your advice.

Sean
posted by speedoavenger at 5:52 AM on January 11, 2009