Leaving a job is never easy; especially when you’re leaving under stressful circumstances.
No matter how emotional, bitter, or annoyed you are feeling, most things are best left unsaid. Here are some tips on what NOT to say on your last day.
“My new job is WAY better.”
We all know you’ll be getting many more perks at your new job, but telling everyone on your last day of work is very unprofessional. What reason could you possibly have for rubbing that information in everyone’s face? Realistically, none, so do yourself a solid and maintain a respectable relationship with your coworkers, and past job. You never know when it’ll come in handy as you continue to engage with the workforce.
“Hey, Paige, why don’t you think about quitting too?”
Saying this out loud is not only disruptive but disrespectful. Just because you don’t enjoy your job anymore doesn’t necessarily mean that your colleagues feel the same way. Even when trying to take the cream of the crop with you to your new job, it works out best to simply wait it out and make your plans known after some time.
“I can’t believe how much I hated this job…”
Whenever you hand in a two-weeks notice, you should focus on finishing off your last couple of weeks in a very positive light, Keep things as drama-free as you possibly can. Although constructive criticism can be great, keep in mind that you shouldn’t end your relationships with coworkers on a sour note, because who knows, perhaps you’ll run into them at your next job interview someday? An interview where they might be the one sitting behind the desk, potentially hiring you! Stay on the high road and steer clear of intense criticisms of individuals or companies. Come on, you know you’re better than this.
“This place is a disaster waiting to happen!”
Do not make your co-workers feel bad about the job you’re quitting. It’s still the job they’re going to work for after you’re gone. Not only will it offend them, but you’ll also make them feel useless after your gone because they’ll be the only ones left to keep the disaster from happening.
“We should stay in touch!”
A lot of people have the tendency to say this when they’re leaving a job, and even more so, to co-workers they never bothered to get to know beforehand. Even though you might think it’s to say, it just makes you come across as insincere. Only offer to keep in touch with those who you genuinely would like to continue to keep in contact.
“I won’t be available for the next couple of weeks.”
After you quit a job, there are going to be some loose ends that need to be tied up by the person replacing you. Demonstrating interest in helping out, just in case something comes up, after you’ve quit is a respectable action to consider. Make the right offer while setting boundaries, and you and your ex-employer will come out winners.
Final Thoughts
You may feel like wrecking havoc in the office on your way out of the door as you look fondly upon a better chapter of being employed. However, the truth is that some jobs are super small, and word travels super fast. Try to keep your working relationships intact for as long as you can, it really is the best thing you can do for the sake of the future of your career!