Integrity "Notice"d

In the kingdom of Akbar, lived a very skilled architect - Karmakar who had designed and constructed mansions for many many years. His employer Vishwakarma was very pleased with his work as Karmakar had erected some of the most beautiful mansions which even Akbar had appreciated.

However one day Karmakar decided to call it a day (put in his papers) and informed Vishwakarma about his intent. A dejected Vishwakarma tried to reason it out, but Karmakar had made up his mind (So often bosses just don't sense the pulse of a dis-engaged employee).?Having reconciled, Vishwakarma proposed he continue for a few more months (notice period) to wrap up ongoing work(and HOTO to the new joinee). He made an un-usual?request and asked Karmakar to make one last home (villa), which he wished is Karmakar's best ever creation. (It's always a risk to put a employee on notice period on a new project). It was no big deal in terms of efforts, skills or time for Karmakar - he after some thought agreed. As days passed Karmakar fell a trap to the usual dilemmas of a "parting" employee. ("Why should I put so much effort when I am anyway about to leave" "What am I getting out of this" ). In the process Karmakar's integrity went for a toss. He created a shoddy design, used cheap , easily available material, didn't impose his high degree of personal quality standards on the team and got the mansion ready as desired. Then can his final working day (the usual mushy farewell speech). Vishwakarma lauded the contributions of Karmakar, spoke of his commitment and quality of workmanship. And to the surprise of all and also that of Karmakar, he said " As a token of my appreciation, this mansion you build so lovelingly is now yours to spend the rest of your life".

Karmakar's heart sank and was ashamed for his own work ethics and personal integrity. What happened to Karmakars reputation post that was not known.

But the point is this "Karma"kar moment comes in some or other form in our lives. These are moments which can define you.??So folks in notice period, may need to consider the following (some of which is relevant even in normal working life)

1. Set clear and aligned expectations on your deliverables in this period.?Transfer your knowledge graciously

2. Do not compromise on your work ethics irrespective of your situation. Maintain the same level of productivity?

3. Your attitude in these times creates you in every ones mind?even after you leave

4. Don't burn the bridges. Earned good will always comes back to help you

5. Seek feedback as you leave and feed these learnings to be a better professional?