The hard work is complete. You’ve considered your short and long-term goals. You’ve mapped out your personal, financial and professional needs to reach your goals on the timeline you’ve created. You’ve even begun the interview process and landed the perfect job.

But now it’s time to change firms. Are you confident that you know how to leave your current job well?

In order to change jobs the right way, there are two very important questions to consider:

How do you wrap things up at your current job?
What do you have to do to prepare for your new job?

When it comes to wrapping up your current position, it’s important not to make sudden moves or changes until you’ve cleared conflicts, completed your background check, and have given notice to the firm’s partners. The world is much smaller than you’d imagine, and it’s important to maintain positive relationships as much as you can. While your current firm is likely sad to lose you, if you handle the situation with poise and kindness, they will wish you well in your new position.

Once it is clear that you will be moving firms, make sure to tie up loose ends and facilitate transitioning work to the associate replacing you. A meeting might be best to review key processes, share core issues, and provide background context on clients and personalities. It is your responsibility to make the transition smooth for whomever is assuming your work.

While you’re finishing up at your current firm, keep in mind that your new employer is your priority and new loyalty. Be mindful of all the small things that come with changing jobs — communication, deadlines, and paperwork. Make sure you complete all necessary documents on time, including on-boarding paperwork, benefits, etc. You want to make a good first impression and this is a great place to start.

If you’re switching practice areas or you’ll have a new focus, you’ll want to brush up on the subject and ensure that you are ready to dive right in on your first day. When you prepare ahead of time, you have an advantage and are able to ask questions as you begin.

My final thought: People are always most important.

Maintaining relationships from your current firm and building new ones at your next firm should be of top priority.

People always remember how you leave. If you leave on a good note, you’ll have better opportunities in the future for references, an extended network, and the possibility of working with them again.

While you may have less time to communicate with old co-workers, it is important to stay in touch as much as possible. Whether that looks like drinks every few months, or messaging on LinkedIn, keeping those relationships fresh will make a lasting impression.

As for your new partners and associates, start getting to know them before your first day. Spend time with them in a social setting and begin forming strong relationships before diving into the work. This helps build positive team dynamics and helps take away some of the stress.

Wherever you’ve been and wherever you’re going, you’ve got this! Consider these questions before your move and you’ll be set for success!

How to Change Jobs the Right Way

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