4 Ways to Avoid Burning Bridges When Leaving a Job

It is a common misconception that quitting a job means that you burn all bridges with your former employer. In many cases, it is quite easy to leave your position gracefully such that you remain on good terms with the company and your bosses. Doing so is also important for your reputation, as future employers may frown upon a potential employee who is known for unprofessional behavior. As your career continues to evolve, you can also tap into previous connections as part of your resource network. Au'loni Media Group shares some essential considerations to keep in mind so you can leave your job with the confidence that your relations will still be intact.

1. Notify Your Boss Ahead of Time

Everyone knows that giving two weeks' notice is the social standard when quitting a job. However, one survey shows that as many as 55% of Americans do not warn their employers two weeks ahead of time.

When putting your two weeks in, the most courteous thing to do is to tell your direct boss first. Writing up a formal letter of resignation is another way to add a layer of professionalism and grace to your exit procedure. You should also make sure to perform your duties to the fullest right up until the last day.

2. Express Gratitude

Before leaving work on your last day, find time to thank your boss for the support, leadership, and mentorship they provided. Doing so will assuage any concerns your superiors may have that you are leaving because of any failures or miscommunications on their part.

In a similar vein, you should also thank your other colleagues and coworkers. These individuals can also be valuable contacts with whom you do not want to burn any bridges.

3. Avoid Gossiping

When you know that you are about to leave your job, you might feel as if there are no consequences for finally speaking your mind. However, you can easily burn bridges by saying negative things about your boss that are better left unspoken.

You should also avoid telling different stories about why you are leaving the company. If the reason you give to your friend in the break room differs from what you told your boss, it could cause distrust in the future. Always assume that this sort of gossip will make its way through the entire workplace.

4. Mention You Are Starting a Business

If you are leaving the company in order to start a business of your own, be sure to mention this to your boss. An employer might be more understanding when you explain that you are pursuing entrepreneurship rather than simply leaving to work for a competitor.

Upon launching your new venture, consider establishing the business's structure as a limited liability company. LLCs provide convenient operational flexibility and often entail less paperwork. Be sure to read reviews to find the 7 best LLC services available and avoid the hefty fees of hiring a lawyer for the job.

People who truly care about their future career goals know that burning bridges is one of the worst decisions you can make. Former employers can become valuable resources, especially if you decide to start your own business. When a previous boss might be a future mentor, it becomes obvious that maintaining business relationships is the right choice.

Julia Mitchell, Incredibly passionate about the activities that fill her days, she wants to share her adoration for her favorite lifestyle topics with the world and encourage others to turn their INspiration into OUTspiration.