How to Successfully Resign and Leave on Good Terms

Goodbyes are difficult. Any time you end something, you risk leaving someone else in the lurch. It’s true for relationships and it’s especially pertinent when it comes to business arrangements. This dynamic turns resigning from a company into a challenging situation. It takes some finesse to leave on good terms. 

However, the task isn’t impossible. You can resign a position and leave good feelings behind you. Here are a few steps you should take to make your exit as smooth and painless as possible: 

Be Upfront and Be Prepared to Talk Details  

No one wants a confrontation, or to face a tense situation. This natural instinct will make you want to minimize communication about your pending departure. However, you shouldn’t try to duck a conversation.  

Be upfront about your resignation, and take the time to answer any follow-up questions your supervisors have. At the same time, follow any processes that the company might have in place, like delivering a formal letter of resignation. Also, be prepared for an exit interview, and treat the endeavor seriously. It will create significant goodwill going out the door. 

Give as Much Notice as Possible  

A departure can cause significant chaos – a clear way to spark hard feelings on your way out. Do what you can to minimize this damage. As much as possible, try to facilitate a smooth transition. 

This process starts with giving notice. Two weeks generally serves as the standard period for most jobs. Of course, this isn’t always possible. In any case, give as much time as you can, so the company can adequately prepare for your absence. 

Work Diligently Until Your Last Day 

Remember high school? Those last days before graduation, when you barely showed up for class? Don’t relive that senioritis as you get ready to depart your job. 

Instead, give your soon–to–be–former employer your best efforts on your way out. Wrap up any projects you can finish, and maintain the highest standards once your tenure ends. 

Offer to Train Your Replacement  

Work with your team in order to get your replacement ready to fill your shoes. You might not have a permanent replacement ready (after all, the firm will likely take a little time to hire someone to fill your position). However, someone will be covering your former responsibilities in the interim. Make sure they understand every aspect of the job. That way, the first day without you doesn’t become a disaster. 

Be Nice to Everyone 

Don’t view your departure as an opportunity to air your pent-up frustration. Whatever you thought of the job while you were there, the experience will soon be behind you. Look to the future and leave any bad feelings in the past. 

 As part of this process, cement relationships with your coworkers and supervisors. Collect names, emails, phone numbers, and any other contact information. Once you are gone, stay in touch with your former teammates. This provides an excellent opportunity to network and to promote good feelings, even though you have moved on. 

Turn to SmartTalent to Help You Find Your Next Position

Pushing your career forward sometimes means switching jobs. When you do this, it’s important to know that you are moving on to better things. Working with a strong recruiting partner, like SmartTalent, ensures that you find the best positions for your skills and experience. 

Contact SmartTalent today to learn more.