15 Things You Should Do Before You Leave Your Job
Not all these will apply to everyone, but it is important to consider at least some of the things discussed here before you are done with the job. Review the list and ensure that you have it covered ahead of time.
Play Your Role in Ensuring the Transition Goes Well
Meet with your supervisor and offer to do anything within your power to help fill the void your departure will create. Offer to train the person that will carry out your duties once you leave. Ask for supervisor input regarding what to prioritize during your final days with your current employer. Your level of professionalism during the remaining period will be remembered when reference checks are made in the future.
Make a List of Your Work Duties
Prepare a list of your monthly assignments so that you are able to document them as perfectly as you can. Share that list with your manager and offer to review it with the person that needs to be informed.
Update Your LinkedIn Profile and Resume
Keep your LinkedIn profile and resume updated to help you quickly move into job search mode in case the need or opportunity ever presents itself. Updating these documents when making a job change is easier since the details will be fresh in your mind.
Write Some Recommendations
You should also compose LinkedIn recommendations for your colleagues, supervisors, and key constituents. People love to receive recommendations, and it can also help you get some of your own.
Save Work Samples
Transfer some non-proprietary examples of your works along with documents that will be helpful in future jobs to your personal email or home computer. Ensure that you have all your personal information on your personal computer. Ensure that you have contact information for the colleagues you plan to stay in touch with.
In some organizations, you will be escorted to your office to box up personal items and your computer access will be cut off once you inform them of your decision to leave, so make sure that you gather this information before submitting your resignation.
Be Humble
You should always resist the temptation to celebrate your good fortune of landing a new job too enthusiastically with your colleagues. You will only alienate your soon-to-be former colleagues and boss.
Say Thank You
Take the time to thank all the people that have helped you be productive in your role. Your modesty and generosity won’t be forgotten. Single people out and express your sincere gratitude for their support. Take time to send goodbye emails to those you have worked with, including clients, co-workers, and vendors.
Keep It Nice and Polite
Avoid bad mouthing management or staff. People have long memories when it comes to criticism, and you never know when future employers will make inquiries about your performance. Even if you hate your boss or job, there’s no point in saying so.
Gather Information on the Ex-Employee Benefits
You need to schedule an appointment with a benefits specialist in the Human Resources department or your manager. Obtain information about implications for retirement plans, a continuation of health coverage, compensation for vacation, severance pay, if applicable, as well as other benefits that will continue even after terminating your employment.
Never Quit Without a Plan
If you plan to quit without a new job, you should first assess your alternatives and explore some options.
Figure Out Your Finances
Meet with a pension representative or financial advisor to gain a clear understanding of options for transporting your pension.
Make a Budget
If you don’t already have a new job lined up, or if you will be earning less than what you are currently making, take time to make a monthly budget. If you will be out of work for a while, estimate how long your savings are likely to last.
Calculate Your Retirement Income
If you plan to retire, calculate your income and expenses with the help of a financial advisor. If you have retirement benefits with your existing employer, you should find out how to roll them over into a new plan if necessary.
Check on Unemployment Benefits
If you have been laid off, you should determine whether you will be eligible for unemployment compensation and calculate how much you can expect to receive.
