How to Remain on Good Terms With a Former Employer
People leave jobs for a variety of reasons: They need a change in career, they're relocating to another city, they have more or less available time to work, or they just can't get along with someone in their office. Regardless of why you choose to resign from a position, one fact is clear: Unless you're moving to Yemen to work in a completely different field, it's probably a good idea to make the split as amicable as possible.
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Instructions
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Evaluate why you want to leave your current job as soon as you get the bug. This will help you establish whether your feelings stem from outside factors (familial obligations, a need for change) or if you're unhappy because your current gig isn't giving you something you want (a higher salary, more responsibilities, freedom, respect).
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Hone in on exactly why you want to change jobs. By organizing your exact train of thought, you'll be able to properly explain to your boss your reasons for resigning (as well as relay your mind set to prospective new employers).
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Once you've decided to resign, ask your boss if you can have a few minutes of his time, then explain the reasons why you've chosen to leave. If you can, offer to stay on a bit past the normal two weeks. This shows that you really care about your job, the company and your co-workers, and gives the impression that you have a good work ethic.
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Once you've given your notice, take on a light-hearted yet professional attitude toward your co-workers and bosses. When others ask why you've quit, you can tell them your reason(s); or, if it's due to something that's transpired within the company, simply state that you're looking for a new, challenging opportunity. It also helps if you maintain an enthusiastic attitude toward your career path, without outwardly expressing enthusiasm for leaving the company.
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Invite your boss to lunch or coffee before you leave. This gives her the opportunity to ask any last-minute questions that may not come up (or be appropriate) during the exit interview. It also gives you the chance to ask her for any business advice, feedback on your performance or even professional contacts she may think are relevant to your chosen field.
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Stop by your boss' office on your last day (or the last day he'll be in the office before your departure). Shake his hand, tell him what a pleasure it was working with him, and wish him and the firm all the best.
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Write your boss an e-mail a week or two weeks after your resignation to say hi, give her your updated contact information and express your desire to stay in touch with her.
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Follow up with your former boss via e-mail every now and then. Try to make plans to do lunch at least twice a year.
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Tips & Warnings
We've all had bosses who are utterly impossible to deal with, let alone please. Even if it's impossible to maintain a positive relationship with your former boss, you can still leave your company on good terms. Before you leave for the day, send out a short e-mail or drop by on your way out just to say that you enjoyed working with him and are appreciative of everything he taught you.
Given the knowledge that an employee has just quit, many co-workers will want to engage in a "bashing session" in which they can air all their grievances about the job, their co-workers and their/your boss. Try to avoid this, as gossiping can mar any positive progress you've made toward establishing a good relationship with your former boss.
Resources
- Photo Credit radwin.com
