Before beginning a job search, carefully consider whether you really want to quit your current job. Jobs at other companies may seem like they are more desirable than your own but that may not be the reality. Find out as much information as possible about the organizations you are applying with to determine whether a move would be advantageous.

The cardinal rule to remember when changing jobs is to wait until you find another job before quitting your current job. Not only does keeping your present job ensure continued income, it also reduces the likelihood of developing difficult to explain gaps in your work history. As excited as you may be about your employment prospects, keep things quiet until the details are certain and you’ve shared the news with your supervisor. You don’t want to risk the information leaking to your boss before you’ve had a chance to explain the situation.

Once you’ve been formally offered another position, it’s time to sit down with your supervisor and share the news. In addition to meeting with supervisors in person, write a letter of resignation including the reason for your departure, your last day of employment and your appreciation for the opportunities the company has provided you. For most employees, two weeks notice is sufficient; however, more senior-level employees should offer up to one month of notice.

During your last few weeks, make sure you work just as hard as you always have at maintaining your professional reputation. You don’t want to negate years of image-building in the last two weeks of employment by slacking off and being  negative. Resist the temptation to brag to co-workers about how much better your new job will be than your current one. Those you leave behind won’t appreciate having their employer or situation criticized. And maintaining your professional relationships is an integral part of future career success.

In my next column, I'll suggest how to approach your exit interview. 

To contact Faris Alami, call 248-688-5353, Ext 2 or email him at faris.alami@myISMinc.com.