• Leaving jobs

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    Leaving a job can be challenging, and expert advice can help make the transition smoother and more professional. Here are key insights from trusted experts:

    1. Maintain Good Relationships: Jordan Harbinger suggests writing personal notes or having conversations with each colleague, thanking them specifically for what you learned from them and asking for advice. This approach helps leave a positive impression and may alter how colleagues treat you during your final weeks 1.

    2. Be Transparent and Detailed: It's crucial to be honest and specific when resigning. Gabriel Mizrahi recommends telling your boss how much the job meant to you, what you learned, and why you made the difficult decision to leave. Offering to help with the transition, such as training your replacement, can also smooth out the process 2.

    3. Consider Timing and Communication: Deliver bad news in person or via phone to provide a personal touch. Jordan Harbinger advises doing this to allow immediate questions and reduce the sting of the announcement. Having the next job lined up before resigning can prevent complications 3.

    4. Evaluate Your Reasons for Leaving: Before quitting, Jordan Harbinger recommends evaluating your reasons. Good reasons include pursuing new opportunities or realizing a job is misaligned with your values. Bad reasons could be minor conflicts or external personal issues 3.

    5. Negotiate Extended Time Off: Jillian Johnsrud highlights that companies may be more flexible now than ever. You might negotiate a sabbatical instead of outright quitting, especially given recent disruptions and adaptability requirements 4.

    6. Managing Failure to Fit: If a new job isn't working out, even after transitioning from a toxic one, it's important to communicate openly with those who helped you get there. Jordan Harbinger suggests expressing gratitude and explaining your reasons to maintain relationships and avoid burning bridges 5.

    7. Plan Your Exit Strategically: Understanding whether to leave a job without a backup plan depends on personal circumstances. Gabriel Mizrahi notes that while some experts advocate taking risks without immediate plans, it’s generally advisable to have some direction or temporary goals, like traveling or studying, to ensure productive use of time 6.

    These insights offer practical ways to handle leaving a job thoughtfully and professionally, ensuring you maintain positive relationships and minimize disruption in your career.

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