Resignation Checklist

Posted on February 26, 2015 by Stacy Harshman, One of Thousands of Career Coaches on Noomii.

When presented with a job offer, we are often so excited that we don’t take time to plan our exit strategy. As a result, important items may be missed in the process. Don’t let that happen to you. Below are items to consider when contemplating your resignation.

Planning to leave
___ Allow proper time for your notice. Most employee handbooks will specify the time period that your employer requires. Two to four weeks notice is the most common.
___ Write your resignation letter to hand to your manager. It is best not to email it. Make the letter short and to the point. You are not required to provide details on why you are leaving. The letter is more a courtesy to your employer, so you can simply write that you are leaving the position to pursue other opportunities. It is a good idea to have a copy of your letter to give to HR.
___ Wrap up as much of your projects as you can. Leave a status report of everything you were not able to finish.
___ Find out what your company’s reference checking policy is. Some organizations require your written permission to give references.
___Know what unused vacation (PTO) that you are owed.
___ In some instances, an employer will ask you to leave as soon as you give your resignation. Before you resign, consider removing all personal items and files from your computer so you aren’t caught off-guard.

After giving your resignation
___ Although it may be tempting to slack off in your last days, remain a productive member of the team up until the day you leave.
___ Thank key management and co-workers for their support.
___ Be careful in exit interviews to maintain a good relationship even if you are dissatisfied with the company. Sweeping changes aren’t likely to result from your comments. Negative remarks could be shared, resulting in damaged relationships.
___Request your performance reviews if you don’t already have them.
___Before walking out the door for the last time, be sure you have contact information for everyone that you want to keep part of your network.

After you leave
___Stay in contact with your former supervisors and co-workers. Research reveals that the average length of a job is 4.3 years. You need to maintain your network for future job search efforts.
___If you have a 401(k) or other qualified plan (like a pension), consider your options. You may want to roll them over to an IRA. An IRA provides you with more investment options than is currently allowed under a company-sponsored plan. Also, your former employer may charge you higher fees to maintain the money than you would with an IRA.

Stacy Harshman, founder of Your Fulfilling Life, brings her experience as a recruiter for a Fortune 500 corporation to her work as a career coach. In addition to helping people discover their passions, she also provides clients with insight into the mind of a recruiter, unlocking the secrets of what employers look for in potential employees. Stacy offers individual and group coaching in person and by phone to those seeking positive change in their professional lives.
Get your free audio of Four Essential Steps For A Successful Career Change on www.YourFulfillingLife.com