30 Jun DON’T BURN BRIDGES WHEN YOU LEAVE A COMPANY
After the announcement of our company’s acquisition, a sales pro began packing his belongings and would quickly exit the office. He previously worked for Dun & Bradstreet, which acquired our company. Given his previous experience with the acquiring company, where he misbehaved upon leaving after his employment was terminated, he anticipated that he might not be retained and began preparing to leave immediately. (He had also lied on his application and did not disclose this to us.)
Throughout my career, I have worked under various managers and in multiple companies. I worked for managers who were incompetent, lazy, mean, unreasonable, terrible, horrible, or all of the above. Most managers were friendly people, but a few were evil. Regardless of the circumstances of my departure—whether I resigned or was terminated—I aimed to exit professionally without openly expressing negative opinions about my managers or colleagues.
For instance, after facilitating a successful visit for a large physician’s practice prospect to see our electronic medical records (EMR) system at a hospital, I was unexpectedly informed that my employment was terminated by my manager in the airport lounge. Despite feeling surprised and disappointed, I maintained professionalism during the departure process. Yes, the physicians’ practice decided to license the EMR system after the visit. I was never given an explanation.
Leaving a company, particularly involuntarily, can evoke strong emotions and a desire to express dissatisfaction. However, controlling one’s emotions and actions is crucial. We may want to let everyone know how we feel about the company or our manager. We may even want to physically assault them, but we must control our emotions and actions. What is there to gain? Publicly venting frustrations yields no positive outcomes. Engaging in calming activities post-departure is advisable.
Here are seven reasons to avoid burning bridges:
- You will find another job and have fresh opportunities to excel, making it best to move forward quickly. It is essential to be on your best behavior when you leave the company. Prospective employers might contact the company, your former manager, or co-workers for a reference. You don’t want anyone to say you were unprofessional or a “hot head” because of a few moments after your employment. You should maintain a level-headed composure during your exit, as it demonstrates your professionalism. Spiteful behavior or revenge will only cause problems for you; it will not yield any positive results. And it is disrespectful.
- There is a likelihood that you will encounter some of the same people you have worked for or with at another company. This happened to me several times. People often leave companies and remain in the same industry. And you might even return to the same company at some point. I also did that.
- Misbehavior can harm your reputation and negatively impact your future employment prospects. You must maintain strong ethical standards, regardless of whether the company does.
- Emotional damage can occur if you hold onto your anger for too long. Do not retain your bitterness past one or two days. Yes, it hurts, but the anger will consume you, and you will act irrationally. It can even harm your marriage or personal life.
- Holding onto anger can cause emotional distress, potentially requiring professional help. Actions taken under stress might lead to later regret.
- Leaving quietly can help prevent legal and financial issues and may ensure better treatment regarding remaining pay and benefits, as well as any outplacement services offered.
To summarize, whether you resign or face involuntary termination, it is beneficial to manage emotions and depart gracefully. Moving past negative experiences promptly helps in continuing your career and life positively.
(Please note that I also reported to many wonderful, caring, and nurturing managers during my career.)