Last impression: How quitting on bad terms affects your career
In your work life, sometimes things don't end well. Instances such as getting fired, engaging in conflicts with superiors, resigning abruptly without proper notice, or experiencing diminished performance due to burnout can have a substantial impact on one's professional trajectory. Let us delve into whether leaving a job on bad terms truly impacts your career prospects and discover strategies for effectively managing your resignation.
Toxic workplaces thrive on workers' silence
Toxic work environments can have a powerful effect on workers, as they fear the consequences of voicing their concerns. They worry it will make it difficult to get hired at a new place where their former colleagues work. This fear stops them from speaking up or taking action against toxic conditions. As a result, the workplaces continue with their harmful tactics without necessary improvements.
Drawbacks of leaving on bad terms
Employers often conduct background checks, and if your departure was marked by conflict, it may raise red flags. "You would have possibly done some great work at your previous company despite the toxic culture. However, leaving on negative terms can overshadow your accomplishments because your employer may feel bitter toward you and avoid acknowledging your positive contributions," explains Dr. Rima Dey, a corporate coach.
What is the ideal approach to quitting a job?
"By demonstrating grace despite your negative experiences at the company," answers Dr. Dey. By doing so you remove any justification for them to speak negatively about you. "It also becomes an opportunity for you to showcase that you are different from them. And they may also come to realize that your departure was likely due to certain unaddressed issues," explains Dr. Dey.
Speaking the absolute truth may not necessarily be beneficial
"Saying 100% truth will not help you. It is always a better choice to leave your workplace on good terms," states Dr. Dey. She advises against blaming others and abruptly leaving. "When you decide to leave, avoid blaming others and instead showcase your departure as you are leaving because it will help you elevate your career or positioning in the industry," she recommends.
Prepare yourself beforehand when discussing your resignation
When the time comes for you to leave your current position, it is crucial to prepare yourself by practicing how you'll approach and discuss the matter. "This helps you manage any emotions that may arise during the conversation and ensures that the discussion stays on the right track," explains the corporate coach. The goal is to maintain a constructive tone while discussing your resignation.
Maintain secrecy before resigning
Dr. Dey advises solidifying relationships with co-workers who have supported you in your current company. Even if you have a job offer in hand, she advises, not to disclose this information to others. "You wouldn't want your boss to learn about your departure through a rumor floating in the air. Most of the time these rumors turn out to be true," says Dr. Dey.
Some workers prioritizing well-being are willing to quit jobs
Whistleblowing is a familiar practice at corporate firms, but there have been several incidents where the whistleblower's leaked identity cost them their career. And following such examples workers, with time, gave in to tremendous work pressure and poor treatment to save their careers. However, as attitudes towards mental health evolve, more individuals are willing to quit their jobs and prioritize personal well-being.
Social media is a powerful tool for highlighting company proceedings
Nowadays, many renowned companies are using videos to showcase their employees' experiences and provide insights into their work environment. So, social media has definitely become a great way of pitching what's happening inside the company," says Dr. Dey.
More and more employees are speaking out
Two viral videos caused a stir online: one exposed a bank employee mistreating subordinates during a meeting call, while the other depicted a security guard locking office doors to prevent employees from leaving. These videos highlight employees protesting against inhumane treatment at work. Although many feared facing consequences for speaking out, the ability to anonymously share content has given courage to many individuals.
Employees trying new ways to express their concerns
Platforms such as LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Fishbowl give current and former employees a valuable outlet to express their frustrations regarding toxic work cultures within their companies. These platforms offer a space where individuals can share their experiences in anonymity. This allows employees solace in knowing that their voices can be heard, and it also warns any potential employee before joining the said organization.
