Dear ENH,

First and foremost, congratulations on the new role! It’s important to recognize that change is inevitable. Extremely rarely will someone retire at the company they first started working at. It just doesn’t happen. We change, and our needs change. Sometimes it takes leaving a company to fulfil those needs.

Anyway, here are a few pointers to help you finish strong!

Complete your tasks as scheduled

I’m sure you have a timetable for when the contract will officially end. Most offices will give you at least two weeks, and some will give you up to a month. Use this time to complete all of your tasks on time. To finish strong, you must finish better than you began, so complete your work.

Hand over gracefully

Suppose a replacement is on the way; hand over your responsibilities adeptly. Train the new hire, show them the books, passcodes, and even the tricks that made you more efficient. Anyone watching, as well as the new hire, will be eternally grateful if you do this. You will ensure that the office does not stall while you are away, which is a noble thing to do.

Hand over everything that belongs to your employer

Return everything that belonged to the company. You may not return every item, but electronics such as phones, laptops, storage devices, and other vital items must be given back. Badges and keys should also be returned. Make sure you do it voluntarily, rather than waiting to be summoned several times.

Prepare your co-workers early

I understand that keeping it to yourself may seem like a good idea, but why should you? You can focus on the positive aspects of your departure – leadership opportunity, a shorter commute, the chance to work on an exciting project – not the negatives of your current company. So, to that end, inform your co-workers that you will be leaving for greener pastures soon. This gets them ready for the final departure.

Professionally keep in touch if you’d like. Connect with them on LinkedIn to follow each other’s career journeys! 

Leave your workstation clean and neat

Whatever state your desk was in when you first arrived at the company, leave it cleaner and more organized.

Arrange the tabletop and drawers, taking out any personal effects such as mugs, combs, oils, and other items.

Leave all of the files neatly arranged so that the person stepping in can find things more easily. This is how you finish strong after resigning.

Sincerely,
Jenny