​Making the decision to leave a job that no longer fulfils you is a significant milestone and often a step in the right direction for your overall well-being. By handling your resignation professionally and maintaining positive relationships, you can ensure a seamless transition and pave the way for future opportunities.

New Zealand is a small place where often everyone knows everyone, and a negative exit can have lasting impacts on your career trajectory. As expert legal recruiters, we often support our candidates through the resignation process. Here are some key strategies to include in your exit plan:

1. Resign in person

• Whenever possible, resign in person (as opposed to over email) with a calm and prepared plan. If in person isn't possible because e.g. your manager is on leave, then a phone call is the next best option. Focus on the positives and your future while expressing gratitude for what your current role has offered.

2. Formalise your resignation in writing

• Provide a written resignation with key dates, ensuring you adhere to the required notice period.

3. Maintain professionalism during your notice period

• Remain diligent during your notice period and handover. Set up your successor for success as best as possible.

4. Engage with your managers and team members post-departure

• Ongoing engagement with your former managers and team members is crucial. Remember, New Zealand is a small place.

In a talent-short market, employers often make significant efforts to retain their team members, including counteroffers. If you find yourself in this situation, keep in mind the reasons you initially sought a new job and stay committed to your new opportunity.

As expert legal recruiters, we can assist you in approaching this transition smoothly by providing insights into the job market, identifying suitable opportunities and offering advice on navigating the resignation process. We can also manage sensitive communications with potential employers, ensuring a smooth and strategic transition.

Contact a member of the CoLegal team to discuss your next Legal opportunity.