So, you’ve found that next career challenge, and you’re ready to go!  That’s exciting. Now for the next step to tell your current team and manager that you’re leaving and to do it on good terms. [gulp]. 

The world moves around by people taking on new opportunities and changing Company’s. The moving on itself, most of the time is met with support and encouragement for a new opportunity. Its the WAY we leave an organisation though, that, when not handled professionally, can be the thing that comes back to bite us. 

As an accredited and recognised leadership coach supporting successful people from Perth to Sydney to New York, I have been witness to some admirable processes of leaving and others that are best described as disastrous.

With over 15 years in Human Resources, I’ve also seen a thing or two about what NOT to do when you leave a Company.  

Thinking strategically and considering your long-term career goals is ESSENTIAL. 

I am here to help you with the THREE KEY REASONS why it is important to offboard gracefully.

How do you leave your organisation gracefully?

Let's dive in and explore the importance of leaving an organisation with class and professionalism, setting yourself up for future success.

  1. Maintain Professionalism During the Notice Period: Once you have made the decision to move on, it is so important to remain professional during your notice period. Avoid completely checking out or leaving your responsibilities unfinished. By showing respect for your peers, colleagues, and the organisation as a whole, you demonstrate your commitment to your own future career. Neglecting your responsibilities can have long-term consequences, such as damaging your professional reputation, brand and limiting opportunities that may pop-up for you in the future.
  2. Preserve Relationships and Avoid Burning Bridges: The world may be vast, but it is also small and professional networks are often separated by one person. When you depart an organisation, it is crucial not to burn bridges by abandoning your responsibilities or making it evident that you no longer wish to be there. The relationships you have built and the impressions you leave behind can significantly impact your future prospects. People talk, and negative feedback about your unprofessional departure could reach potential employers, colleagues or suppliers, hindering your chances of successful future opportunities. Leaving on good terms and maintaining positive connections can open doors for collaboration and support in the future. Remember: there are formal reference checks where you’re in control of who people speak to. And then there are the informal reference checks that happen behind closed doors.
  3. Provide Constructive Feedback: When departing an organisation, you may have the opportunity to provide feedback during an exit interview or in other conversations. It is important to be honest about your experiences and share suggestions for improvement, always. However, there is a BIG difference between constructive feedback and destructive criticism. By offering feedback in a respectful and constructive manner, focusing on areas for growth or suggestions for enhancing the work environment, you demonstrate professionalism and integrity. Spreading venom or toxicity in a way that isn’t helpful to anyone, isn’t the way to go and can often end up leaving you looking immature and unprofessional. 

Your last impressions are as important as those you made at the beginning.

Your career is a long game, so how you depart an organisation or team matters. By leaving with professionalism and class, you ensure a positive impression is left and valuable connections maintained. Remaining committed to your responsibilities during the notice period, preserving relationships, and providing constructive feedback contribute to your success. 

If you’re ready to move on, power to you! New opportunities are what make the world go around. But remember, do it in a way that you will look back at and feel proud of and not regret. 

Ready to take that next step in your career? Reach out to me - I can help you work out what it is, OR we can get you new job ready in 4 weeks! Let’s talk!