In the UK, notice periods can range from one month to three months depending on the industry, but just because you are leaving, does not mean you can let yourself go.
Mark Wilson, career expert and managing director of Sharp Consultancy, a specialist financial recruiter explains “Although you will probably want to wind down in your last few weeks, I would recommend that you do not do this. You need to ensure that your professional reputation is kept in tact; you never know when you might need a reference or even bump into former colleagues again as you climb the career ladder.”
Tip Two: Tell it straight….
Telling your boss you are leaving can be very daunting, especially if you have had a good working relationship. You must not lose sight of the reasons why you are leaving.
Tearmh France has recently been appointed Account Manager at the Manchester office of the Golley Slater Group. Tearmh, 25, moved from another PR agency after serving a one month notice period. “I think there is always a certain amount of fear you go through when you know you have to tell your boss you’re leaving. I was very close to my boss and felt in some way that I was letting him down. I just had to remember that moving was the right thing for me.”
Tip Three: Be prepared….
Mark Wilson says “You have to be prepared for the reaction from your employer and remain professional, composed and polite at all times. Do all you can to establish a friendly tone and leave a good impression. State that you are leaving because your new employment offers you more opportunities for advancement and that your decision is the result of careful consideration.”
Tip Four: The here and now….
France says “I really tried hard to stay focused on my work, but it is very difficult. I couldn’t help thinking that in a few weeks my priorities would be completely different. I was also very conscious that I couldn’t get excited about my new job, even though all I wanted to do was celebrate!”
Mark Wilson says “It is tempting to want to talk about your new job, but it is best to resist this temptation, and concentrate on your current tasks and responsibilities. Whatever happens do not put your present company down; remember your colleagues are still going to be working there.”
Tip Five: Exit in style….
In addition to the standard handover notes and meetings, some employers will now ask that employees attend an exit interview with the manager. If this happens to you, cooperate entirely and conduct yourself in a professional manner.
Mark Wilson offers his advice. “The best piece of advice for an exit interview is to try to concentrate on the accomplishments and positive learning experiences you have encountered whilst employed there.”
It is tough, but once you have completed the notice period, reputation in tact, you can look forward to your future career, and maybe buy that suit to congratulate yourself!
Date: 31/1/2006
