Many people aspire to change jobs at the dawn of a new year, and such changes are more frequent than one might think.
According to a 2018 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average person changes jobs between 10 and 15 times during their career. In addition, many workers spend five years or less at each position.
When leaving a job, it is important professionals exhibit a certain measure of grace and etiquette. Leaving a job with dignity and mutual respect can benefit professionals in the short- and long-term.
Make sure your boss or immediate supervisor learns of your plans to leave the job first. Do not gossip or suggest to coworkers that you’re ready to leave – it’s unprofessional if a supervisor hears of your impending departure from others.
Even if it is time to move on, ensure your current employer has plenty of time to interview potential replacements and train someone to take your place. While two weeks notice is the standard, if you have held a professional position for some time, extend the courtesy to three. This ensures an easy transition for all involved, and can show your employer that you have the company’s best interests in mind.
Ensure you’ve checked your current employer’s company’s policies, as there may be strict rules in place and protocol to follow, especially if you will be leaving to work for a direct competitor.
Though it can be tempting to slack off when another job awaits, according to Monster.com – which stated it can be human nature to do less when long-term accountability is removed – you never know when you might need a referral or even a new job. Leaving a bitter taste in the mouth of your employer at the end of your work history can put a black mark on your employee record.
Take coworkers feelings into consideration and be open and honest, but do not gloat that you are leaving the company and they are not. If anyone has strong feelings about your departure, accept their point of view and do not react outwardly. Take things in stride as much as possible.
Leaving a job doesn't have to feel like a dirty secret, as long as you engage in the process in a thoughtful way.
