Making a career move is a big decision and not one to be taken lightly. If you are ready to start looking for a new role, ensure you are moving for the right reasons. We have all heard the term ‘the grass is greener’ well, it is true for jobs too! Take time to evaluate your current role, what you enjoy and what are the reasons you are looking to leave. Is it something that could potentially be offered in your current organisation and you just haven’t asked? Or is it something that simply can’t be changed like location? If it is possible, talk it through with a friend, family member, or someone who can be a good sounding board and bring different viewpoints for your consideration.

Once you are sure you are ready to move, now is the time to start planning! Firstly, ascertain the non-negotiables required from your new role. This might be salary, location, career advancement, management style etc., Also, what are the highly desirable items that would make the next role your dream job. In today’s employment market, opportunities move fast, so before applying or reaching out to an agency have a clear picture of what your next role looks like. Otherwise, there is the danger of being swept up in the momentum, making poor decisions and ultimately ending up in the wrong job.

Resigning, this is the big one! Don’t be tempted to talk to anyone in the office about resigning before you have spoken to your manager. Even a trusted confidant could let something slip and if that gets back to your boss prior to you speaking to them, it can sour a good relationship and exit. Pick an appropriate time to let your manager know and ideally, if possible, do so face-to-face. If suitable, give the reasons behind your resignation as well. Provide a written resignation and the correct notice as per your contract. Express your gratitude for the opportunity and offer to help with the transition.

Now start creating a handover document (if you haven’t started already!). Make it a clear, comprehensive overview of everything you do, even the smallest of tasks that might come as second nature to you. Include step-by-step guides to all your processes and procedures, all passwords and login’s as well as a list of all the regular tasks, weekly and monthly.

Put yourself in the shoes of the new person and imagine you have no prior knowledge of the role. Is everything included? No acronyms, assumptions etc? If possible, have a colleague review the handover notes, looking for any gaps etc,. Inevitably something will be spotted and that’s a good thing! A thorough handover doc takes time but will be one of the key factors in a professional exit. Don’t underestimate how long these notes take!

After you have resigned, don’t take your foot off the peddle! In fact, do more! Even if you have been with the business for a long time and have done a stellar job, that memory will quickly fade if you only half-heartedly work your notice. Finally, when you start your new role, don’t underestimate the change! No matter the role or level, a new role takes time to adjust. Sometimes, it can take 6 to 12-months until you feel like you ‘belong’. So be prepared! Be ready to learn, accept training and guidance and most importantly, have fun and grasp the opportunity with both hands!