Exiting with Grace

Exiting with grace from a company to which you have given your resignation leaves a lasting impression. Resignations result from either running to or running away from an opportunity or situation. Surveys over the years continue to prove that the number one reason employees leave a company is lack of appreciation. It is rarely because of money. Most employees gain $2,000 in salary by changing jobs. However, there are opportunities that are just too good to pass up, and you have to change positions in order to experience the professional growth. Working the resignation period can be very challenging, as mixed emotions occur.

If you are running toward an opportunity, you may be sad about leaving your current status and comfort zone, questioning whether you have made the right decision. At the same time, you may be excited about the new opportunity that awaits you. People flock to you, attempting to drain your brain with all the knowledge regarding your responsibilities. Individuals may begin to treat you differently. They may become indifferent to you, or may even show some anger or jealousy.

The other scenario is that you are running away from your current work situation: a job you hate, with an unrealistic and demanding boss, and a miserable work environment filled with backstabbing peers. You have waited a long time for another opportunity to leave, any opportunity to take you out of this negative workplace. And finally, here is the chance to make your exit and have the company realize what they will be missing. The resignation period can be agony. While you are excited to leave, you still have to do your job in an ungrateful situation. The temptation is to leave things undone, to not tell others where you are with your current projects. If you do not tell, no one will know and then the company will really realize what they have lost. Admit it: this is the thought …the temptation. It would serve them right!

Regardless of the scenario, you have a responsibility to exit with grace. OK, so the company doesn’t deserve it; but you are the one who has to lay your head down at night. It is your reputation and your professionalism that are important. You may never again be in contact with anyone from the company you are leaving, but you will know in your heart that you did your best till the end—if you choose to exit with grace. (Remember, this is a choice!)

Accomplishing an exit with grace takes patience and perseverance. The goal is to focus on your current responsibilities and do the job to the best of your abilities. During the resignation period, plan 30, 60, and 90 days in advance for the current projects under your responsibility. What are the steps to ensure success? Map out recommendations to make the transition as smooth as possible. Do not wait for the company to figure this out, or leave your work unfinished. This is your opportunity to leave a lasting legacy, a lasting impression of the utmost professionalism.

This legacy of professionalism may never be realized by the company (I doubt it), but you will know. You will have the satisfaction of leaving your responsibilities in order, making the right choices, rising above negative situations, and always doing your best, therefore building a career in which you can be proud. Yes, exiting with grace from a company to which you have given your resignation leaves a lasting impression. The impression will be yours …do any others really count?