- What to Do After Submitting a Resignation Letter
- Things to Do Before Leaving a Job After Resigning
- Building Strong Relationships Before You Leave
- Preparing for Your Career Transition
- Checklist: Essential Steps Before Leaving Your Job
- Key Takeaways
Resigning from a job is a significant career decision that marks the start of a new chapter. However, before you close this door, there are several crucial steps to ensure a smooth transition, maintain your professional relationships, and prepare for the future.
This article outlines what to do after submitting your resignation letter and the key tasks to complete before your last working day.
What to Do After Submitting a Resignation Letter
Once you’ve formally submitted your resignation, it’s essential to handle the transition period with care and professionalism. Here’s how:
1. Confirm Your Resignation Timeline
- Clarify Notice Period: Double-check your employment contract for the notice period requirements.
- Set a Last Working Day: Confirm this date with your employer and ensure it's documented.
2. Communicate Professionally
- Discuss Transition Plans: Schedule a meeting with your manager to outline the transition process.
- Inform Your Team: Share your departure news with colleagues professionally to avoid speculation.
3. Plan Your Handover
- Document Processes: Prepare detailed notes or guides on ongoing tasks.
- Identify Successors: Offer recommendations for team members who can take over your responsibilities.
4. Stay Focused on Your Work
- Avoid slacking off during the notice period. Continue delivering quality work to leave a lasting positive impression.
Things to Do Before Leaving a Job After Resigning
Before you walk out the door on your last day, take these essential steps to wrap things up responsibly.
1. Organize Your Personal Documents
- Back-Up Files: Save personal files from your work computer to a secure location.
- Collect Pay Stubs and Contracts: Download copies of your pay slips and employment agreements for future reference.
2. Finish Pending Tasks
- Complete Projects: Wrap up any projects or tasks to avoid burdening your team.
- Update Reports: Provide your manager or successor with updated reports and task lists.
3. Return Company Property
- Check Inventory: Create a checklist of items like laptops, ID badges, keys, and credit cards.
- Return on Time: Hand over these items before your last day to avoid complications.
Building Strong Relationships Before You Leave
Leaving a job doesn’t mean severing ties. Maintaining professional relationships can be instrumental for your career growth and future opportunities. Here are some essential steps to take:
1. Express Gratitude
- Thank Your Manager: Personally thank your supervisor for their guidance and support.
- Acknowledge Colleagues: Show appreciation to coworkers who collaborated with you during your tenure.
Read Resignation Letter Samples
2. Write Farewell Messages
- Draft Personalized Notes: Send emails or cards to express your gratitude and share your contact information.
- Share Positive Memories: Reflect on enjoyable projects or moments to leave a lasting impression.
3. Request References
- Identify Suitable Referees: Approach colleagues or supervisors who are familiar with your work.
- Ask Politely: Request recommendations for your LinkedIn profile or future job applications.
4. Network for the Future
- Connect on LinkedIn: Add your colleagues and supervisors to expand your professional network.
- Stay in Touch: Periodically check in with key contacts to nurture relationships.
Preparing for Your Career Transition
Once you’ve taken care of your departure, focus on setting the stage for your next professional chapter.
1. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
- Add Achievements: Highlight accomplishments and skills gained in your current role.
- Tailor Your Profile: Align your online presence with your career goals.
2. Plan for Your Next Role
- Reflect on Your Experience: Identify what you enjoyed or didn’t like about your previous job to guide your next steps.
- Research Opportunities: Explore roles, industries, or companies that align with your ambitions.
3. Manage Financials
- Settle Accounts: Ensure your final paycheck includes all dues, such as bonuses or accrued leave.
- Review Benefits: Transfer retirement funds, if applicable, or set up alternative accounts.
4. Prepare for a Smooth Transition
- Keep Key Contacts: Note contact details of HR or finance teams for future queries.
- Leave on a High Note: Conclude your last day with professionalism and positivity.
Read How to Prepare for Resignation Meeting
Checklist: Essential Steps Before Leaving Your Job
To ensure nothing slips through the cracks, use this checklist to manage your final days at work effectively:
Before Your Last Day
- ✅ Confirm your last working day and complete the required notice period.
- ✅ Document and hand over all ongoing projects and responsibilities.
- ✅ Save personal files and collect important documents like contracts and pay stubs.
- ✅ Return company property such as laptops, access cards, and office keys.
On Your Last Day
- ✅ Send farewell emails to colleagues and supervisors.
- ✅ Share your contact information for future networking.
- ✅ Review final paychecks to ensure all dues are cleared.
- ✅ Thank your team and exit gracefully with a positive attitude.
Read Temporary Job Resignation
Key Takeaways
Resigning from a job is not just about leaving—it’s about doing so with integrity and professionalism. Here's a recap of the key points:
- Communicate Clearly: Keep your resignation and transition plans transparent with your manager and team.
- Be Organized: Tidy up loose ends by completing tasks, handing over projects, and returning company property.
- Nurture Relationships: Maintain strong professional connections by expressing gratitude and networking effectively.
- Plan Ahead: Use your transition period to prepare for your next role by updating your resume, researching opportunities, and managing financials.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll leave a positive legacy at your current workplace while paving the way for future career success.
Final Thoughts
Exiting a job can be challenging, but handling it responsibly ensures a smooth transition for you and your employer. Whether it’s managing handovers, networking, or preparing for your next role, every step counts toward a graceful departure.
FAQs
What not to do after resigning from a job?
Avoid burning bridges by being unprofessional or speaking negatively about your employer. Don’t slack off during your notice period; instead, complete your responsibilities and assist with the transition. Refrain from taking company property or confidential information. Lastly, resist the urge to disengage from colleagues—maintain good relationships for future networking opportunities.
What is the next step after resignation?
After resigning, focus on transitioning smoothly. Complete pending tasks, document processes, and hand over responsibilities. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your experience. Plan for your next role by researching opportunities and preparing for interviews. Maintain professional relationships with colleagues and ensure your financial and personal documents are in order before your last day.
Can I leave immediately after resignation?
Leaving immediately after resignation depends on your employment contract and company policies. Most companies require you to serve a notice period to ensure a smooth transition. If you must leave urgently, communicate with your employer, explain your situation, and request a waiver of the notice period. Maintaining professionalism during this discussion is key to preserving goodwill.
What to save before leaving a company?
Before leaving, save personal files, employment contracts, performance reviews, pay stubs, and tax documents. Keep contact details of colleagues and HR for future references. If applicable, note important information like benefits, retirement accounts, and non-compete clauses. Avoid taking proprietary data or confidential company files, as this could breach ethical and legal guidelines.