Graceful Exit

By Robin Ogden

Leaving your Job with Your Reputation Intact

Let’s face it, if you have been impacted by the recent downsizing of your company there are many emotions that are probably swimming around inside of you.  Those emotions can range from – “oh well, I saw it coming” to “I’m going to let them know exactly how I feel about this abrupt notification” to “I’ll never say a good word about that company again” and on, and on.  Your internal ‘billboard’, as I like to refer to it, can take you on a nonstop rollercoaster ride of emotions surrounding job loss.

One thing is very important to remember during this time – in order to keep your professional reputation intact, it is important to keep your cool.  When you do begin your new job search you will more than likely want to contact previous managers and/or coworkers regarding networking and references in order to land a new job.  A graceful exit from your company will definitely work in your favor when it comes to your new position and beyond in your future networking.

Yes, losing your job can be one of the toughest experiences to go through and getting professional help through your Company’s EAP (employee assistance program) can be one of the biggest gifts you give yourself.  Be sure to check and see if this is a continued benefit for you and/or utilize it while your program is still eligible. 

You may also have been provided with an outplacement program where you have access to a career consultant – don’t throw away this benefit.  Access all the help available to get you moving forward.  Additionally, there is also some great reading you can do to help you through this tough transition period.

Treat yourself to these benefits and make sure that it’s a graceful exit that comes back to haunt you and not one that will burn a bridge and disable you from being able to use the company as a reference with your next employer.

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About the author:  For over 15 years Robin has taken her entrepreneurial spirit and teamed with executives in rapidly growing startup companies in the Silicon Valley, creating HR teams who helped to build incredibly talented organizations and mold strong collaborative, goal aligned cultures.  Additionally, as a Career Consultant for a Fortune 500 career management firm, Robin has coached and trained hundreds of individuals in their quest for new career opportunities.  Her uncanny way of engaging with people at a personal level and her willingness to explore, learn and uncover allow her to tap into her inventive way of thinking to help her clients discover new opportunities and pathways to success.  

Robin is a co-founder of FiredUP Careers, a career coaching company focused on providing career products and services for professionals who wish to stay aligned with their careers, achieve success and truly dig what they do.

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