Whatever the reason for your change of job, it is far better to leave on a positive note than with animosity. Try to leave your employer and colleagues happy when you quit your job by:-

Working your notice.

Giving the required notice, which may be anything from a week to a month. Your employer needs time to successfully fill your role. It will be hard on your colleagues if you just leave them in the lurch. Show a little thought and consideration and the bonus is that this will also give you time to tie up any loose ends with your old, or your new, job.

Giving your job 100%.

When you are working your notice, however hard it may be, try to still do your job to the best of your capabilities. If you have been a really good worker why sully your reputation at the end. You are still be getting paid, aren't you?.

Keeping your opinions to yourself.

Don't keep sharing comparisions between your current place of work and your future one, with your employer and colleagues. This is not fair on your employer or your colleagues.

Helping to train your successor, if necessary.

Assist with any training of new workers which you are asked to do. It may be that your replacement actually starts a little time before you leave. You can really leave on a high if you play ball here. Finish any outstanding tasks before you leave your job. Any which you cannot finish should be passed on to the appropriate person with full details of the state of play. Some people actually withhold information in the hope that their successor will fail but this should not be an option. Leave as much information behind as possible, about your work, which will help your successor. Give them the fighting chance of success that they deserve and that you would expect in their position..

Leaving everything spic and span.

Clear your locker and work area, especially if it is a desk, leaving everything spic and span. You do not live like a pig at home and neither should you at work.

Returning what is not yours anymore.

Return any uniform clothes, keys and work items promptly and in good condition. If you do not you may lose some of your final salary.

Saying Goodbye

Say pleasant and friendly goodbyes, wishing everyone well, as after all you never know where any of you may meet again. Your old colleague could become your boss in the future or you may even contemplate returning to your old place of employment. It is better to leave on a smile than a growl.

Accepting your leaving gifts gracefully and offer your thanks.

If you receive leaving gifts and cards do not forget to send thank-you cards to the givers. After all this is really common courtesy. Accept any such gifts and cards in good spirits as they show that your working efforts were appreciated.

Overall

If you leave your job after giving your employer good service, and doing the above, they will have positive memories of you. Who knows when you may want a reference from your old employer, a job back at your old company or who those people you used to work with may know. Imagine leaving your job negatively only to find out that your new employer was best friends with the old employer who you left in the lurch. Need I say more..

Learn more about this author, Ethel Smith.
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