OK, you have made the decision to leave. Follow these steps to ensure you leave on good terms and can always get a reference in the future.
Remain pleasant. Once you have decided to move to a new company, continue to be pleasant with the people you worked with and make sure you follow procedures.
Check on the notice period – it could be 1 week or 3 months, make sure you know this before you commit to a start date with the new company.
Give your notice in writing. Be clear and concise. You don’t need to note down all the reasons you hate your boss or company. You may want to work with the person or company in the future.
Think hard before accepting a counter offer. You may be offered more money to stay. But if money isn’t your reason for leaving, it isn’t going to change the situation and you will be back in the same position in a few months time.
Remain active and positive. Don’t switch off and get moody. Continue to be an active team member and continue to do a good job.
Help your manager to train your replacement. Make sure you leave everything in good order with notes relating to key elements of your job.
Keep the contact details of people you will want to remain in contact with. You may need your boss for a reference in a couple of years time.
A few months on
If the job doesn’t work out, don’t beat yourself up. Just make sure that you take time to get the decision right next time. A career specialist can help.
Enjoy being proactive in your job search!
