"Good" Goodbyes and New Hellos

As adults, we have all left a job or witnessed a coworker leaving our place of work. Whether it be from choice to move on to a new career or being told you have to leave, it will certainly get you farther in life if you choose the high road when exiting. As emotions are pouring out, and sadness overtakes you as you leave behind friends, treasured co-workers, and a paycheck, it’s in one’s best interest to hold back any rants or negative emotions (but that's not to say you shouldn’t feel them). Instead hold your head up high as you leap into the unknown.

Here are a few tips to try to follow on your last day of employment, regardless of what lead you to the departure:

• Vent Elsewhere: it is likely that you will feel the need to air your frustrations and fears, but lean on your friends and family, instead of airing dirty laundry around the office water cooler. When asked by co-workers the reason behind your departure, simply state that you are pursuing a career in another direction, or that you felt this new opportunity is a better fit for your personal and professional objectives. Keep statements vague, concise, and positive in nature. You will not only be viewed as mature, but your (former) colleagues and management will remember that you didn’t burn any bridges upon leaving. And you never know if that boss, coworker, or leader could be a future colleague, boss, or client.
•  Power is Knowledge, so Gain Power in Your Exit Interview: The exit interview is the perfect environment to gain a better understanding about your working relationships and what others think of your work habits. You may choose to provide some negative feedback, but in doing so, ensure that the information is constructive, and not merely vindictive in nature. Utilize the time to ask specific questions about what your strengths were, and what areas you could use to improve upon. This information is invaluable, especially if your organization didn’t perform regular employee reviews or feedback sessions. Focus on what you can gain for the future, instead of rehashing heartfelt emotions or past grudges. 

• See the Work Through: While it may be easy to mentally check out after deciding to leave your current job, it’s important to remember what that job provided you with before this point (a paycheck, steady work, career fulfillment, etc.). Tie up as many loose ends as possible; properly inform clients of your departure and inform them who to contact after you are gone; and try to organize the remaining work for the next person to take over your responsibilities. You never know who your next boss will be, and they are sure to remember that you worked through to the end.

 For more information on exiting a company, or for tips on maintaining engagement levels at your new job, contact TNS about their new hire surveys to see how employee feedback can help your organization.