Resignation: How to ensure a smooth transition

By Vincent Malunga

One of the most challenging things to do on any body’s career path is taking the decision to resign and implement it. There may be cases where working conditions are so bad that resigning is a very easy decision even without an alternative. But for most people, resignation is about career progression rather than protesting unfavourable conditions. For the latter the decision is not as easy. After all, it involves something you know well and that has proven itself to be working out reasonably well. While leaving promises better things there is also serious risk associated with the potential gains so it is a relatively heavy decision to undertake.

There is a Malawian proverb that roughly posits: The fly observed that the future is good and so is the past! It means do not forsake a good past just because the future looks rosy. The wheel turns. One day we may have to go back where we started. The big lesson from it all is that always leave on the best possible terms you can. Even if your reasons are not pleasant, it is strategic to leave on a positive note. This informs how one should resign. This time we have some tips on how best to handle your resignation.

The following are tips you can follow to ensure a smooth transition:

• Follow the prescribed procedure as in give required notice and officially tender a resignation in writing
• Be courteous and invite your superior to a meeting to first verbally explain that you are tendering your resignation before submitting the letter
• Do not spread rumours about your pending resignation before you have communicated with your superior
• Even if you do not intend taking a counter offer or be persuaded to stay, allow your superior to have his or her say about the matter and reaffirm your decision
• While you do not owe an explanation for leaving, it is sensible to proffer some cogent reasons. It could be the fact that you are looking for growth, or for family reasons, whatever the case might be.
• It is helpful to offer developmental feed back to the organisation to assist it with reducing its attrition rate without pointing accusatory fingers
• Avoid badmouthing the organisation internally or externally. It is a small world and word always gets around. You want it to be positive word when it does get out.
• Do not try to influence colleagues to leave as well. You went there alone and you leave alone. Everyone has to make their own decisions to stay or leave based on their own needs and experiences.
• Express your appreciation for the growth that the organisation has allowed you to achieve during your tenure.
• If you can and are requested to, you can assist with identifying your replacement.
• Leave the door open to the possibility of coming back in future under the right circumstances.

Be sure to attend your farewell party and be the happiest dancer on the dancefloor while sipping your final cocktails!

Vincent Malunga is a Writer and Publicist – Great First Impression

+256 708 791 726

hello@greatfirstimpressioncv.com

www.greatfirstimpressioncv.com