Why how you quit as important as how you start a job

I recently decided that I would leave my job and pursue an opportunity with another employer. Throughout my 15 year career, I’ve gone through eleven significant job transitions where at least one of the following is true:

1. The employer changes
2. There is a substantial change in your management structure
3. Your scope of responsibility changes
4. The industry you are working within changes
5. The functional area you are working within changes

In this post, I’ll discuss my experience managing my departure from my past employer. Topics that are related but won’t be covered here are: negotiating your next offer, how to think about when to quit your job, and the importance of practice & creating your work.

Our social networks are the lifeblood for getting things done within companies. Co-workers form bonds, expectations of one another, and views about strengths and weaknesses. These impressions and channels of communication are the substrates for productivity. Skillfully managing transitions that change parts or all this delicate system is vital for success. Here are the reasons why departure transitions are essential:

At my previous employer, I was a member of a four-person product team and a senior member of the company’s product staff. I was highly respected within the company and responsible for a high impact position at a fast-growing business line. I knew my departure would affect my team and my manager, whom I respected. Here are the things I did to make sure I left in good graces:

One question that I wrestled with every time I contemplated leaving my job is whether to tell my manager I am departing BEFORE I have found my next opportunity.

Quitting a job is a crucial moment of transition. Build a great career on the foundation of strong relationships. Don’t change the quality of work because of a decision to quit. Tell your leadership early, structure your transition, and frame your departure to the broader team.

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