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The way you handle yourself in your last months at a job is key to maintaining a glowing professional reputation. Years of outstanding performance can be muddied by a messy resignation process.

Here are 5 tips to help you make sure you’re remembered fondly by your employer and your peers once you’ve gone to pastures new.

1. Timing is everything. One month may be standard but you know your 6 years of hands on experience will be hard to replace. Give fair notice for your job role, and do what you can to help replace yourself (with someone great!) This may go against your instincts, but ultimately will reflect well on you.

2. Keep Calm and Carry On. When you hand in your notice, keep your cool. Book a meeting, and plan what you're going to say beforehand. Don't flirt with counter offers if you have no intention of staying. Remember to be grateful for the opportunity you’ve had. Whether you’re sad or relieved to leave; either way you’re leaving! Don’t leave a bad taste in your employer’s mouth. Then carry on working as hard as you ever did. Don’t slack off and leave the business in jeopardy.

3. Collaborative, not destructive. Don’t blab to your entire office before you’ve agreed a communication plan with your boss. Help in the handover process and train the new person well. Share all the little secrets; whether it’s the best way to get your stern client talking or the little trick you have to do with your keyboard to get the 'K' to work.

4. A great finale. Make sure to tie up all loose ends for any projects you are working on. Keep striving to hit your PB and think up innovative ideas in meetings. Give yourself time for proper goodbyes and say nice things (even give a Linkedin recommendation or two!) This is a sure fire way to ensure you're remembered fondly.

5. Be an ambassador after you are gone. Keep all doors open for the future. You may need a reference or an opportunity later on. Don’t ruin it with a cheap shot at a colleague or your boss during your notice period.

Whether you can’t wait to get out the door or you’re dragging your heels, it is crucial to behave to the same standard you held when you walked in on your first day. Another 12 months and your circumstances could be completely different. Keep all doors open, and good luck in your new job!

 

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