You may be ecstatic about moving forward with a new job and leaving your current one behind, but you need to be professional about it.
Before you do your victory dance and unload your pent-up frustration, design a plan for your resignation. You need a plan to make the notice period productive, while preserving the professional relationships that may benefit you down the road.
Here are four ways to move forward in your career and not burn any bridges behind you.
Meet With Your Manager
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Your resignation should always be delivered in person. Set up a time to meet with your boss. First, state that you have decided to leave for a new opportunity and keep a positive tone. It is alright to say where you are going, but don't gloat. If asked about salary, do not feel obligated to disclose it.
Following the meeting, you should either email or present a physical copy of your resignation letter. In your resignation letter, simply say that you appreciate your time at the company, but you are resigning to take another position. Avoid further details about the new job and nix any negative comments about your current job. Your letter will become part of your employee file.
A proper resignation ranges from two to four weeks, depending on individual circumstances.
Stay Focused
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The word will spread quickly that you are a "short-timer." People will assume that you will be slacking. Keep your same strong work ethic. Arrive on time and put in a full day's work. Avoid the gossip groups.
Now that you have resigned, every malcontent in the office will be drawn to you like a magnet. Do not be pulled into the negativity. The best way to survive the notice period is to keep your head down and continue to do your work as you always have.
Leave A Good Legacy
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Before you leave, get your desk and office in order. Take time to document ongoing projects and issues that you were handling. Share this information with your manager. Create a list of key contacts and anything else that will help your successor to hit the ground running.
These plans will make it so much easier for your manager and your efforts will serve as a nice legacy of your professionalism.
Give A Strong Exit Interview
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Not every company does an exit interview, but it is still relatively comment.
Continue your theme of staying positive. Even if asked, don't share any negative comments and criticisms of your boss, your co-workers, or the company. Your feedback will not result in sweeping reform. Instead, it may risk your reputation and the rapport with your former manager.
You are "out of there," so leave that negativity in the past. Even in the most horrible job, there are lessons learned and skills gained. Remember to express your appreciation to your manager and your staff. You may work at a company for eight years. However, if you leave in a burst of flames, most people will remember you for how you left rather than all the good work you performed during those eight years.
Leaving on good terms with your boss and co-workers, especially if you're hoping to add them to your professional network.
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This article was published at an earlier date.
