So, you’ve managed to get a new job and you’re leaving your current one. Whether you’re leaving on good terms or negative ones, there is no point in completely burning bridges. You never know when you need to call your colleagues for a favour or ask your former boss for a reference. Here are some things not to do when you leave a job.
Getting Emotional If You’re Being Fired
Don’t beg for your job back if leaving isn’t your choice. Employers don’t want to see someone crying or worrying about how they’ll afford the next month’s rent. That’s not their problem and they don’t want it to seem that way.
Be professional and ask why they have decided to let you go. There may be something that you can do about it or you may find that they’re the ones being unprofessional.
Whatever it is, walk away with your head held high and then plan your next steps.
Being Completely Honest
Yes, they will ask you to do an exit interview but now is not the time to be completely honest.
This is meant to be a confidential interview and chance for you to offer the company constructive criticism but don’t fall for it. It could really damage your chances in the future.
Cashing Out Your Retirement Fund
Yes, you need money, especially if you are laid off but that doesn’t mean now is the time to cash out on that retirement fund.
You will be offered the chance, with fees involved, or you can usually roll it over into another pot. Retirement funds are protected against bankruptcy so keep it there just in case!
Say Anything Bad in Public
You don’t want to be seen as the person who talks bad about a former company. This will not look good for your future employment prospects. Just because you want to, doesn’t mean you need to!
Keep it private. If you really want to get it off your chest, write it in a journal where it will never been seen! You could get yourself in trouble doing it in public by slandering the name.
Waiting to Claim Your Unemployment Benefits
Don’t delay. You can claim as soon as you are made unemployed. Do it quickly so that you are less likely to run out of money and have to use your credit cards and get into debt.
There are different types of benefits so find out which ones you are eligible to claim for.
Not Doing All Your Work
Just because you’re leaving, doesn’t mean you can leave tasks. Try to get as much completed before you leave and have notes added so your colleagues can find their way around your system.
This will help them complete the project in the end and means they are more likely to help you when necessary.
Not Getting the Letter of Recommendation
Always ask your former employee for a letter of recommendation. This is really important because it will help you find a job in the future.
The only time you may not need this is if you are already walking into another job.