3 Things to Do When Leaving a Job So You Stay Rehireable

Your career will be comprised of a myriad of experiences across different organizations. Leaving a job can feel like saying goodbye. But, you always want to do whatever you can to leave on good terms. You never know when you might to return to that company for a new opportunity in the future.

The relationship between an employer and an employee (or a gig economy worker) is exactly that: a relationship. It that requires effort on both sides to be successful. If you’re leaving a job but want to keep the door open, here’s what you should keep in mind.

Start With Gratitude

If you’re leaving a job on good terms, the most important thing you can do is thank them for the opportunity of working there in the first place.

Take the initiative and let them know what an invaluable experience this has been for you personally. Even if you had been in that position for very long, you probably still acquired skills or learned lessons you will take with you. Don’t be afraid to come right out and share this information with people . You’d be surprised on what a big impact it can make when they think back on you in the future.

Take the time to thank your direct supervisors, but also your coworkers and teammates. You never know if they’ll be the key to finding your next great job.

Give Context to Why You Need to Leave a Job

Don’t just put in your two weeks’ notice and call it a day. Briefly explain why you’re leaving and why this was such an important decision to make. Maybe you’re trying to further your career or you want to explore some type of new interest. Perhaps you got an incredible opportunity with a new company that is just too good to pass up. Regardless of the reason, explain why you’re leaving and make it clear that there are no hard feelings on your end.

If you’re leaving for growth or a better opportunity, it shows that you are a worker with ambition. It could also give the employer an opportunity to make a counter offer to keep you.

Express Your Own Hopes As You Part Ways

Another key aspect of ending a job while keeping the door open: come right out and mention that you’d love the chance to work together again in the future. This puts the idea in their mind right away, letting them know that you don’t necessarily see this as an ending. This increases the chances that they won’t see it as one, either.

If you’re able to accomplish all of this, you’ll have done more than just leave the door open on your way out of a company. You’ll make someone excited about the potential of working with you again, which is an excellent position to be in as time marches on. 

About the Author: Stephen Lilley earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio. Over the last decade as a professional writer he has written more than 15,000 unique pieces of content in areas ranging from entertainment to technology to finance, real estate and more.