At some point on their careers, we will leave our company to seek better prospects and opportunities, further studies, or to seek quality time with oneself or with their families.
Whatever your reason may be, it is best to do so in a positive manner to leave a good impression and that you don’t burn any bridges.
Situation: Seeking further education
If you are leaving to study, you can inform your supervisor casually over e-mail or verbally, or even bring it up during your appraisal.
Giving them early notification can help them plan their manpower resources and open a discussion should you wish to go on LOA (Long leave of absence) or to leave the company completely.
This discussion can also allow you to find out if there is a chance your education can be sponsored fully or partially by the company.
Situation: Leaving for better job prospects
If you have gone through the interviews, received the job offer, and are sure you are going for it – let your boss know once you have signed the contract.
It is best to set up a meeting as soon as possible, and let your manager know the context of your leaving.
Hearing the news directly from you first builds trust and respect.
Leaving a good impression might even prompt your boss to counter offer your new job’s pay package.
Whatever the situation – just remember the following tips:
1. Always inform your direct manager first
If they heard it from the grapevine, it might sound like you were boasting about your new job offer and you wouldn’t want them to believe rumours or speculations on the reasons you are quitting.
Keep it brief, diplomatic, and thank your manager for the support and guidance during your time in the company.
2. Pick the right moment to leave
If possible, try not to quit when the company or your team is going through a manpower crunch.
If your team is currently on a big project, see if you can leave when the work is more or less completed or pass its crucial points.
3. Do a proper handover
Providing a good and detailed handover shows that you care about the team and the company.
The handover notes should list down all the completed and pending tasks to be done, where to find important documents and files, and especially notifying your clients, stakeholders, partners, of your leaving and who they should contact next.
4. No bad talking
Before you leave, avoid telling even your closest colleagues any negative thoughts you may have; and especially not online where anybody can copy, paste, and share for your all to see.
5. Goodbye e-mail
This is a thoughtful gesture you can do before you sign off from the office on your last day.
You can include key milestones in your work journey, and thank specific colleagues and your boss who have guided you or left a great impression on you.
The way you leave is how you will be remembered, so whether you had a good or bad experience in the company, always be professional.
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