For A Graceful Exit At Work: 20 Things To Consider Before Resigning
Sometimes the shine rubs off the job and we want something different. Or you’d like to learn something new and have accepted a new opportunity that stretches your skills. Whatever your reasons for resigning, it’s important to observe certain do’s and don’ts during your notice period that will assure you of a graceful exit at work.
What’s a Notice Period?
There are quite a few things to consider before resigning, and among them is your notice period. It’s the length of time an employee has to keep on working after they have handed in their resignation. In the Philippines, it could be from two weeks to thirty days, or longer. Generally, the more senior you are, or the more important the work you have done for the company, the longer the notice period.
However, an employee can negotiate the length of their period in their resignation letter, particularly if their reason for resigning is related to a family emergency, medical condition, or other urgent matter.
It’s always best to make a gracious and graceful exit at work, rather than one marred by negative impressions, so we’ve curated a list of 20 important do’s and don’ts you should consider while serving your notice period.
Also read: Resign With Immediate Effect! How To Leave Your Job The Right Way
The Do’s for a Graceful Exit at Work
Write a polite resignation letter to your boss.
No matter what your relationship has been with your manager, it’s best to remain polite when making that graceful exit at work. Also, a resignation letter goes on record and you should always be careful of what you leave in writing. As a sign of respect, make your boss the first person you tell about your planned departure, no matter how tempted you are to let your best friends at work know your decision.
Also read: Leaving Your First Job? 5 Important Items To Write In Your Resignation Letter
Offer as much time as you can for your notice period.
Most companies will have policies on how long you need to stay after resigning. If you’ve been performing some important tasks, allocating sufficient time to complete these would be appreciated by your manager and leave a good impression with the company.
Create a transition plan for your offboarding.
Write a handover document that you can leave with your replacement or your manager. In the document, list all the tasks you perform, how to do them, and the people you connect with to get things done, with their contact information.
Also read: 7 Signs That It’s Time to Leave Your Job
Tie up loose ends.
Wrap up active projects and do a proper handover of ongoing projects or tasks and all files, whether paper or electronic. Turn over office supplies as well – in short, everything belonging to the company or that can be considered office property. Don’t leave things until the last day. Accomplishing a proper turnover of outstanding matters to your replacement, boss, or someone in authority shows your sense of accountability and professionalism.
Clean your computer and desk.
Well before your last day at work, delete your personal files from your office computer and/or laptop, mobile phone, and other devices you were issued at work. Bring home your personal items as well. This way, in case you are asked to leave immediately for whatever reason, you leave nothing behind.
Offer to train your replacement.
Your manager and team members will appreciate your taking the time to properly train the person taking over your duties so that work doesn’t get disrupted. You’ll also leave fewer ripples and make your exit truly graceful.
Let your boss decide how to communicate your resignation.
It’s common courtesy to keep your contacts informed so there’s continuity and minimal disruption during the transition period. But ask your boss how they would like clients, business associates, and colleagues to know about your departure – whether they will be the one to communicate that or leave it up to you.
Comply with company rules on the exit interview and paperwork.
It’s tempting to blow off the exit interview with HR, especially if your stay with the company hasn’t been happy. But take the time to do the interview, and be candid and honest while remaining respectful. It’s also your chance to ask about your benefits, separation payments, and other important information related to your employment.
Remain professional throughout your notice period.
Occasionally when one resigns, they might find the immediate superior and/or colleagues behaving distant or sidelining them from discussions or social activities. If that does happen, it’s important for you to continue acting professionally, difficult as that might be.
Be grateful.
It’s tempting to harp on about the aspects of the company you’re not thrilled about, but don’t. When you’re asked about why you’re leaving, focus on the good and leave out the bad. You’ll be out of there soon!
The Don’ts to Consider Before Resigning
Don’t think that money is everything.
Think twice before accepting a counter-offer of more pay, a better job title, or perks. Ask yourself, “Why are they offering me these things only now?” While the money might change, things and people within the company will stay the same.
Also read: How To Resign From Your Job (Plus Resignation Letter Example)
Don’t make a big deal out of it.
You should inform those in your professional network that you’re leaving, but there’s no need to make a big deal out of it. Your boss and colleagues will respect and appreciate you more for keeping a low profile during this time.
Don’t post your gripes on social media.
As much as possible, keep them close to your chest – your thoughts are your own business and no one else’s. You may share photos of your farewell party and those taken with close colleagues, but don’t post anything negative about your company or the people working there.
Don’t act like you’re on a holiday.
You might find yourself with a lighter workload during your final weeks, but don’t slack off. Continue with the same level or degree of productivity as when you first arrived. Ask your boss and t eam members what you can do to help out. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness and team spirit.
Don’t boast about your new job.
You might be bursting to talk about all the generous perks and cool benefits of your new job, but resist you must. Keep the office energy warm and positive to minimize the disruption during the transition period.
Don’t leave on bad terms.
Word can get around quickly in any industry. Focus on the big picture and future possibilities. Let bygones be bygones. A graceful exit at work requires that you shake hands and leave on a positive note.
Don’t forget the goodbyes.
Make sure you have time for a round of proper farewells with all those you’ve worked with during your stay. Express your appreciation of their support and guidance, apologize for all the times you were difficult, and exchange contact details. In short, observe the niceties. You’ll feel better for it.
Don’t get too emotional.
You might feel like tearing up, and this is okay to an extent, but don’t go overboard. In particular, don’t get angry! Keep your demeanor professional and positive. Let your last day be one that you’ll be remembered for in a good way.
Also read: Resignation Due To Mental Health? 5 Signs It’s Time To Leave Your Job
Don’t poison the well.
Don’t complain to other employees about the company and your boss/coworkers. You may have legitimate grievances, but you’re leaving already so just focus on making the transition in as professional a manner as possible.
Don’t burn bridges.
Unless you absolutely have to, don’t burn your bridges. It’s better to leave the door open for future possibilities to work together again, because you never know what surprises life may bring.
Now that you’ve gone over our list of things to consider before resigning, prepare to make that graceful exit at work and explore new opportunities. Find your new dream job on Jobstreet. #LetsGetToWork by creating or updating your profile.
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