7 ways to leave your management job without burning bridges

There will come a time when you move on from your current role as the scarcity of talent means top-notch managers are always in high demand.

The opportunity to leave may have come unexpectedly or you have finally got the exit you have been craving as you have simply had enough.

Either way, when it comes to leaving, the skill is to do it professionally.

If there have been issues, it doesn’t matter what has gone on in the past. You should be thinking about keeping your soon-to-be past employer onside. You may be going, but they will remain part of your future career plans as they are very likely to be your next reference for any future employment.

You also need to think about your actions when it comes to your current work colleagues. Whether they work for you or in another department, you need to leave a positive impression even if you think you may never see them again. Our careers can go in many ways and so leaving on good terms and is advisable. You never know if your paths will cross, so leaving on a good note is important.

This might sound like common sense, but there are steps you can take to ensure a professional exit that your employer will appreciate and that will also benefit you.

1.              Give proper notice

As a manager, there is the likelihood that you will have to serve a longer notice period than the standard month, as replacing you won’t be easy. You might be itching to get away and the thought of another three or even six months might be unthinkable. However, stick with it as quitting early leaves your company in a predicament, which they and your past colleagues that are covering your duties would thank you for.

2.              Document your job

The chances of you sitting down with your successor and being able to pass on everything you do is very unlikely. Make the transition as easy as possible for your current employer, by creating a comprehensive document of your day-to-day activities and main responsibilities that will enable the business to operate as smooth as possible.

Items to note include:

• Regular reports 
• Passwords
• Clients
• Scheduled meetings
• Procedures

3.              Train others

Aside from preparing transition documents, if you can pass on your expertise and knowledge to a work colleague before you go, then this also makes for a smooth transition. Assisting others before you leave will ensure you are remembered positively.

4.              Work to the end

We can all be guilty of thinking, I won’t be here much longer, so we become lax in our approach. It doesn’t matter if you put in extra hours while in the job if you start to take long lunches, come in late or leave early and generally are less productive. This will be noticed and is not a positive way to leave.

5.              Be a resource

Just because you have left, it doesn’t mean you can’t still be of use to your former employer. There is the possibility that questions may arise after you have left and a willingness to assist, even though you are no longer working there, it not only shows you’re still a team player, but it can also help keep the door open should you ever look to return.

6.              Remain professional

Don’t fall into the trap of commenting about your past employer or colleagues, especially to your network in the industry. It is very easy to do, especially if you pop something on social media, but you just don’t know who knows who. Instead, connect with your former employers and colleagues on channels like LinkedIn and keep everything positive and professional.

7.              Stay in touch

The chances are you are not just colleagues but good friends with the people you work with. You don’t have to leave them behind especially in today’s world of easy communication. Aside from a quick catch up now again, keeping in touch enables you to call on them if you need some advice. Staying in touch also helps in the new job doesn’t go to plan, as ‘boomerang rehires’ – employees who leave and then return – happens to almost 15% of workers according to LinkedIn.

 If you are looking to enhance your career and seeking a management or leadership role in the sector, then talk to us and let our expertise help you secure that new position.