At some point, most people will quit a job and move on to other employment.
A recent report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated that almost 3 million workers voluntarily left their positions this past August.
If you are planning to join the ranks of those leaving their current position there are a few things you need to do to make sure you have preserved relationships and have a smooth transition to your next job.
Top 10 Things to Do
These items apply to most employees, there are exceptions. Review the list and make sure you’ve got it covered ahead of time.
1. Wait till new job is confirmed.
If going to other employment, make sure you have the job. Don’t rush into a resignation before the other job is a done deal and you have official confirmation.
2. Don’t quit without a plan.
If you are thinking of quitting without a new job, assess your alternatives and explore some options first. It is easier to find another job when you are employed.
3. Make a budget.
Estimate how long your savings will last if you will be out of work for a while. If going to another job it may be a lapse until you start receiving a paycheck from the new company. Planning for these expenses makes things less stressful.
4. Make a list of what you do on the job.
Create a running list of your accomplishments so you can document them as concretely as possible.
5. Update your resume and LinkedIn.
Keep your resume and LinkedIn profile up-to-date. This will be helpful if you are searching for a job or if your new employer checks out the information when considering what tasks to assign to you.
6. Save work samples.
Transfer some non-proprietary samples of your work and documents that may be helpful in future jobs to your home computer or personal email. Some organizations will escort you to your office to box up personal items and cut off your computer access when you tell them you’re leaving.
7. Remove any personal files from your work computer.
Delete them from your computer prior to turning in your resignation. This includes personal emails etc.
8. Write your resignation letter.
Be kind and gracious. The way you handle your resignation will have an impact on how your manager feels about you after you’re gone (and when giving references in the future). Don’t burn bridges.
9. Provide recommendations.
Compose LinkedIn and/or written recommendations for supervisors, colleagues, and any employees who worked for you. Do this without being asked.
10. Say Thank You.
A thank you for all the experiences and opportunities you have had in your current position goes a long way. Be kind and polite. Now is not the time to badmouth anyone. It is also not the time to gloat about moving on to greener pastures.
Bonus: Help make the transition go well.
Meet with your supervisor and offer to do anything possible to help fill the void created by your departure. Ask for input from your supervisor regarding the priorities for your final days. Your professionalism during your final days of employment will be remembered.
These steps will help you prepare to leave and preserve relationships. You never know when your paths may cross again. Good luck as you transition to your next career steps.
Contact Me
If you or someone you know wants to create a solid, reliable resume and plan that differentiates you from the competition and helps you rise to the top of the stack, please contact Career Coach Rachel Schneider for a consultation. Working with her will help you yield job opportunities and get to where you strive to professionally be.
