Updated July 2008
After the stressful process of looking for a new job while you’re still employed, accepting an offer is a huge relief. At last, you’re free! You probably can’t wait to share your good fortune with the world and tell your boss where she can shove that evil assignment she gave you last week. You might think that since you’re leaving, you don’t have to worry what people think of you anymore. This is not the case. Unless you want to erase everything you’ve accomplished since you first accepted this job, your departure must be as strategic and deliberate as your arrival.
This starts with your resignation. Under no circumstances should you let on that you’re leaving before you have a signed agreement and official start date from your new employer. If you jump the gun and blab to everyone and your job offer falls through, your best case scenario is that you’ve got egg on your face. The worst case, of course, is that your boss is insulted enough to fire you. Here are some other suggestions for making a smooth exit:
Tell your supervisor first. You want her/him to hear the news from you, not from someone else in your department.
Give two weeks notice. Stay for the full period unless the company requests that you leave sooner.
Be modest. Don’t alienate your colleagues by bragging or chattering incessantly about your awesome new gig.
Don’t insult anyone or anything. Whether it’s true or not, show that you regret leaving such wonderful people behind.
Stay on top of your responsibilities. Remember that you’re accountable for your work until 5 p.m. on your last day.
Continue to adhere to office protocol. You worked hard for that corporate persona, so leave them with a lasting impression of professionalism.
Review the employee handbook. Understand what you’re entitled to regarding benefits and compensation for unused sick or vacation days.
Organize your files. Make it easy for your colleagues to find materials so that they can transition your workload seamlessly and won’t need to call you at your new job.
