Career Change

How To Break Up With Your Boss Without Burning Bridges

How To Break Up With Your Boss Without Burning Bridges

All good things must come to an end. This is especially true for today’s job seekers. The age of golden watches and working for the same company for 30 or 40 years is behind us. Instead, we jump around. Related:5 Things To Avoid When Breaking Up With Your Boss According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average worker stays at each of his or her jobs for 4.4 years. Over the last few years, confidence in the US jobs markets has slowly improved, and more Americans feel they can find a better job. There are also more employment choices than ever before, including new fields like renewable energy and mobile technology. And the younger generation refuses to play by the rules. In a quest to find their purpose, Generation Y is turning away from large and profitable corporations to find their passion. There are countless reasons why now is the right time to leave your job, but say good-bye gracefully. Always remember the golden rule of leaving any employer: Don’t burn bridges. Here are a few strategies on how to break up with your boss, the right way.


Plan Your Promotion

Bigger and better things lie ahead, but it’s more than simply knowing what’s next. You need a roadmap to get you there. That’s why I created a FREE ebook to help you plan your exit Before You Quit Your Job. It’s important you set your resignation in motion by working backwards. If you see yourself at the next level of your career, what steps will take you there? Plan accordingly.

Hire Your Replacement

You matter, and your company will never be the same without you. While you can’t stay, you can leave behind a legacy that includes training a replacement. Take the time to write a job description and begin screening candidates. Create a jumpstart document that includes internal resources, key contacts and best practices for excelling on day one. Most importantly, act as an advisor and mentor. You have a wealth knowledge that might surprise even you. You will not have enough time to share everything and experience is the best teacher, but you can cut the learning curve. Schools in session and you’re the teacher. What lessons will you prepare?

Close Up Shop

Two weeks notice is customary, but it’s never enough time. Depending on the time of year, you could be spread especially thin. The end of the year and each of each quarter are the busiest times for most businesses, and they just happen to be the period of time when most people transition roles. Regardless of when you leave, finish your outstanding work. No one knows your sphere of influence like you do, and it would prove impossible for most people to pick up where you left off. Don’t assume that your work no longer bears any significance. Quickly complete any open projects, and leave instructions for anything you can’t finish.

Exit Honestly

Constructive feedback is crucial to improving company culture and individual performance. In most instances, you will have the chance to share your experiences in an exit interview. Without talking badly about the company or sharing how you really feel about certain people, be candid. Honest feedback is a sign that you still care about the future of your employer. Prepare observations beforehand, and include examples and suggestions for improvement. Up and until the very end, it’s important to show you’re still acting in the company’s best interest. Few things matter more than a simple ‘thank you.’ Take the time to to say farewell to your boss and colleagues, and offer your gratitude for the experience. What’s around the corner is new and exciting, and you will be ready. The first step is creating an achievable action plan based on a number of considerations, from family to finances. That’s why I created a FREE ebook to help you plan your exit Before You Quit Your Job. Let the planning begin! This post was originally published on an earlier date.

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