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We all know the age old cliché of ‘nothing personal; it’s just business.’  And while it can often be incredibly disillusioning and disappointing to be told this, whether we like it or not, it is the unavoidable reality of many professional relationships.  So if you want to succeed in the professional world, it is best to always keep this axiom in mind when making important decisions about your career––especially when they involve leaving your job.

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People decide to quit their jobs for many reasons.  Perhaps you hate your boss and are unhappy with the working environment.  Maybe you have been offered a better position elsewhere.  Or maybe it just seems like the perfect time to finally take that extended trip you have been fantasizing about for years.  Whatever the reason––personal or otherwise––it is always best to handle the situation in the most dispassionate and businesslike manner possible, no matter how disgruntled or upset you may be.  You never know what might happen in the future, and it is important not to destroy opportunities that you may some day unexpectedly need.

This means taking measures to ensure that the company you leave is not negatively impacted by your departure.   Here’s how:

Give Plenty of Notice

Depending on your particular position, the amount of advance warning you will need to give will vary.  But consider how long it will likely take to find and train a replacement, and you should have a fairly good idea.  On the other hand, it is always possible that your boss will tell you to just pack up your office by the end of the day, so be sure to also take into account your standing at the company.  The minimum is 2 weeks, but for most high-level positions, it is best to give several months notice.

Tie Up Loose Ends

While the repercussions of leaving unfinished projects may not seem to be your problem, they will undoubtedly become problems for the company you leave.  So if you want to depart on a positive note and keep doors open for the future, be sure to attend to all of your responsibilities before taking off.  Even if this involves extra work and hassle, it will be well worth the effort for maintaining your reputation as a responsible employee.

Be Available to Train Your Replacement

Make the transition as smooth and painless as possible for your coworkers and bosses.  Teach your replacement what they will need to know, and be sure that they are adequately prepared to fill your shoes.

As much as you may want to tell your reviled employer where he can go and what sorts of unpleasant things he should eat as you head for the door on your last day, DON’T.  You never know what connections he may have nor what firms he might some day work for.  It pays to avoid making enemies and to always maintain a respectable reputation in your field.  So be considerate when you leave your next job.  You will be making a valuable investment for your future.

Leaving your job can be tough for a number of reasons.

Thanks to Legalweekjobs for sending us these tips.