Changing jobs is inevitable but how you do it can make or break your professional life.
When leaving a company, it is crucial to leave on good terms as it can affect your future opportunities. Many companies do a background check during their hiring process, and a negative reference from a former employer can result in you not landing future jobs. It is important to exit in a professional manner, regardless of the working conditions or circumstances under which you left.
Here are five ways to help you make a clean exit.
NEVER A GOOD TIME TO SAY GOODBYE
Before you write that resignation letter, the first thing to do is inform your line manager or supervisor – set up a face-to-face meeting to do so. Communication is key, and you need to let them know before the news starts circulating on the office grapevine. Be honest but respectful about why you are leaving. The next step is to send your resignation letter to human resources to finalise your departure.
NOTICE PERIOD
A decent notice period allows the company time to find a suitable replacement for your position and allows you to hand over the reins properly (which your colleagues will appreciate, as the transition will be less stressful for them). Be aware that some employment contracts include stipulations that remove certain benefits when you quit without notice, so it’s also to your advantage to have a notice period. This should be two to four weeks, depending on your contract, position and the industry you are in.
OFFBOARDING
Do a practical and detailed handover of duties to your co-workers or the new employee. Answer their questions and give training where necessary. Also provide them with insights into the clients and accounts you were handling. This is not a requirement but doing it eliminates workflow disruptions for your former team.
FINISH STRONG
This is not the time to slow down and ‘sleepwork’. If you are in the process of closing a deal, make sure you deliver on time. Finish your tasks and deadlines, attend meetings and continue to suggest new and better ways to grow and improve the business. Leave the company knowing you gave it your all.
NEVER A GOOD TIME TO SAY GOODBYE
Before you write that resignation letter, the first thing to do is inform your line manager or supervisor – set up a face-to-face meeting to do so. Communication is key, and you need to let them know before the news starts circulating on the office grapevine. Be honest but respectful about why you are leaving. The next step is to send your resignation letter to human resources to finalise your departure.
@legal_leaders_sa Replying to @colleenchetty803 ♬ original sound - Legal-Leaders SA
NOTICE PERIOD
A decent notice period allows the company time to find a suitable replacement for your position and allows you to hand over the reins properly (which your colleagues will appreciate, as the transition will be less stressful for them). Be aware that some employment contracts include stipulations that remove certain benefits when you quit without notice, so it’s also to your advantage to have a notice period. This should be two to four weeks, depending on your contract, position and the industry you are in.
OFFBOARDING
Do a practical and detailed handover of duties to your co-workers or the new employee. Answer their questions and give training where necessary. Also provide them with insights into the clients and accounts you were handling. This is not a requirement but doing it eliminates workflow disruptions for your former team.
FINISH STRONG
This is not the time to slow down and ‘sleepwork’. If you are in the process of closing a deal, make sure you deliver on time. Finish your tasks and deadlines, attend meetings and continue to suggest new and better ways to grow and improve the business. Leave the company knowing you gave it your all.
LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN
As you take the final bow, show gratitude and be thankful for the opportunity you were granted. Do not downplay or underestimate the experience gained and work relationships built. You may be leaving for valid reasons but keep in mind that you could potentially work together again in future.
BOOKS AND PODCASTS WORTH CHECKING OUT:
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
This book tracks the American super-producer and entertainment hotshot’s courageous decisions to escape her comfort zone. We see her navigate through spaces where she has never felt worthy and comfortable and start to break boundaries. A perfect read when in pursuit of a new journey, longing for change and ready to work for it.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
Shetty is one of the most inspiring and influential people on the internet. For his podcast, he interviews dozens of famous people, such as Alicia Keys, and who share valuable lessons they learnt on their journey to success.
Wisdom & Wellness with Mpoomy Ledwaba
A new start requires introspection and that’s where this brilliant local podcast comes in. Ledwaba looks at spiritual alignment and helps you find purpose and direction for your goals and achievements.
Words by: Sindeka Mandoyi
Photography: Gallo/Getty Images
As you take the final bow, show gratitude and be thankful for the opportunity you were granted. Do not downplay or underestimate the experience gained and work relationships built. You may be leaving for valid reasons but keep in mind that you could potentially work together again in future.
BOOKS AND PODCASTS WORTH CHECKING OUT:
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
This book tracks the American super-producer and entertainment hotshot’s courageous decisions to escape her comfort zone. We see her navigate through spaces where she has never felt worthy and comfortable and start to break boundaries. A perfect read when in pursuit of a new journey, longing for change and ready to work for it.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
Shetty is one of the most inspiring and influential people on the internet. For his podcast, he interviews dozens of famous people, such as Alicia Keys, and who share valuable lessons they learnt on their journey to success.
Wisdom & Wellness with Mpoomy Ledwaba
A new start requires introspection and that’s where this brilliant local podcast comes in. Ledwaba looks at spiritual alignment and helps you find purpose and direction for your goals and achievements.
Words by: Sindeka Mandoyi
Photography: Gallo/Getty Images
HOW TO LEAVE YOUR JOB ON GOOD TERMS
Reviewed by Amaarah
on
October 12, 2023
Rating:
Reviewed by Amaarah
on
October 12, 2023
Rating:
