Executive Retail Recruitment 
Chatting to clients this week, I’ve heard a couple of pretty awful resignation stories! So here are some tips to help you leave on a professional note:
- Give your employer a chance
If you’re great at what you do – your employer won’t want to lose you. If you’re leaving for reasons like lack of career progression, more money or tricky working hours, before you start your job hunt – consider checking in with them as to future opportunities, a pay rise or flexibility. (Later, when you resign they’ll appreciate that you gave them the chance to keep you)
- Resign in person – don’t be tempted to text or email a resignation
Resign in person if possible or over the phone or skype if you work remotely. Follow your resignation with a formal resignation letter or email. (It’s a respect thing!)
- Write a good resignation letter
Thank your employer for the opportunity to have worked with them and make sure the dates of your departure are accurate
- Give a fair notice period and prepare a great handover
Plan a great handover, offer to train your colleagues or a new person. Tie up loose ends wherever possible and ensure that people taking on your responsibilities or projects are well informed. (Nobody wants to be left with a mess!)
- Don’t’ be thrown off guard when they give you reasons to stay!
Be prepared for a counter offer – don’t be surprised if your company offer you all sorts of reasons to stay – more money, a promotion, a guilt trip. They probably will – it happens all the time. Before you resign be clear on your reasons for leaving.
- Agree on when and what to tell your team and customers
Talk to your manager about next steps – timing and consistency are key! In the best interests of the business – agree on when, who and what you will tell your colleagues and clients.
- Stay professional to the very end! – you’ll need a reference
Most future employers will require a reference from the role you are in. Make sure you leave a good impression and stay in touch from time to time. (It’s a really small market, people talk, the truth always emerges)
- Be mindful of what you say after you leave
There is a difference between speaking honestly and professionally about your reasons for leaving and venting. No matter how tempting – don’t get on a rant and speak badly of your last employer.
- Get social!
Remember to update your LinkedIn and other social platform profiles.
I have worked with Jodi off & on for 10 years now and have always been impressed at the time and care Jodi takes to get to know her clients and their current needs. I have lost count of the number of great people Jodi has sent my way and know I can rely on her to find excellent people!
Melissa Quirk GM People and Culture, Overland|Merchant 1948
Jodi would have to be the best recruitment specialist that I have worked with, always finding not only the best candidates but the best culture fit, in what was a challenging labor market in New Zealand. Jodi operates with great integrity, honesty and is a true professional.
Libby Sanderson Retail Director, Adidas Group
Jodi is a highly professional business woman who always delivered fantastic results. She is consistent in her delivery of service and has a deep understanding of recruitment in NZ.
Kerry Lila General Manager, Hallensteins Brothers
We have worked with Jodi over the last 7 years – Jodi took time to understand our business and our needs to ensure she presented the right candidates, efficiently and effectively every time!
Jacqui Coombes Director HR&NZ, Bunnings Australia and New Zealand