Now that all of your efforts in landing the job of your dreams have finally paid off, how do you leave your old job gracefully? Is there a particular etiquette involved? You bet there is.
You should always remember to do a few things before you step out that door and across that new threshold into the job of your dreams (or nightmares). For one thing, don’t cut off everyone you have worked with cold turkey. You never know when your association with them might come in handy and besides, it’s not very polite. Hand out cards with your new contact information, making the move a smooth transition rather than a goodbye. (Okay a goodbye transition. Still, you do have manners.) Get the cards of others as well for you never know when you might need or meet them again. The universe is a tricky place when it has something to teach us and it doesn’t give up.
Get your own personal closure by spending some time reflecting on what you have learned, the progress you have made and the skills you have worked so hard to develop. Think about your goals and how your next position will help you build on what you have learned. Leaving on a good note can be a lot simpler than you think and may involve simply putting in a full day’s work on your last day. People tend to remember the last experience, the last encounter, etc. Make it a positive one.
Don’t forget to clean up your workstation before you leave. Clear your computer of any personal files or e-mail and remember to take all of your personal belongings. Having to return afterwards can be very awkward and at the very least means you have to say goodbye twice which was uncomfortable enough the first time around.
Happy new job!
Related Reading:
“What Are Hard and Soft Skills?”
http://forums.families.com/jobs,f122