Chances are, you will change jobs several times during your career. You may choose to leave, or you may be part of a downsizing or restructuring. Either way, leaving a job is something you will be faced with.
Did you know how you leave a job is an important career decision?
If resigning is in your plans, consider the timing and manner in which you leave your employer, and think about what you’ll say in your exit interview.
You probably will be asked why you chose to leave. Employers often want to know what they could do to keep talented employees. Keep your answer short and to the point.
This can be dangerous, because you have an audience for all the frustrations, and you may be tempted to air some dirty laundry, which could come back to haunt you later in your career. Avoid the temptation.
If you have been asked to leave a company, the way you make your exit will benefit your future career path in several ways.
1. The employer you are leaving is left with a positive impression, as you show respect, even though you might disagree with the employer’s decision.
2. It improves your chance for the positive reference letters you may need for your next employer.
3. Your colleagues are calmed by your positive reactions to unpleasant circumstances. The saying, “one’s character comes out during the time of crisis” is so true.
4. If you leave coworkers with a positive impression, you may find them ready to help you network in your job search.
5. If emotions are too raw, don’t make important decisions. Wait until you can regroup a bit, if possible, before having key conversations.
Ironically, all the positive aspects of your employment can be minimized if you leave on a negative note.
In today’s world of rapidly changing work environments, learning to live with beginning and the end of each step on your career path is an important step in managing your career.
