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# 9. Make a Smooth Exit and Start Strong
- URL: https://www.mattrutherford.co.uk/make-a-smooth-exit-and-start-strong/
- Published: 2025-09-28T16:54:41.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-13T12:57:36.000Z
- Author: Matt
- Tags: jobhunt playbook

You’ve signed the contract, now it’s time to wrap up your old role well and set yourself up for success in the new one!

A clean exit protects relationships and reputation while a strong start builds trust and momentum.

This guide takes you through both stages.

## Give Professional Notice

Leave on good terms by being clear and respectful.

- **Check** your contract for notice period and handover requirements.
- Tell your manager **first**, ideally in person or on a call.
- **Confirm** in writing with a short, professional resignation letter.
- Offer **flexibility** on start date if you can.

A straightforward process signals reliability and maturity.

## Agree a Handover Plan

Help your team and manager by creating a clear plan.

- **List** ongoing projects, key contacts, and deadlines.
- **Document** passwords, tools, and key procedures.
- **Schedule** short handover meetings with whoever is taking over.

A smooth handover reduces stress for colleagues and reflects well on you.

## Communicate the News Thoughtfully

Decide how and when to share your departure. If you are a manager or leader, then check what the protocol at your company is - I prefer to be able to tell my team directly. 

- **Align** with your manager on timing and wording for team announcements.
- **Prepare** a short, positive message for wider contacts.
- **Thank** key partners and clients directly.

This keeps the focus on gratitude rather than gossip.

## Finish Strong

Avoid coasting in your final weeks.

- **Deliver** on current commitments.
- Tie up **loose** ends and update documentation.
- Stay **engaged** and positive.

**People remember your last days as clearly as your first.**

## Maintain Relationships

The colleagues you leave today may become future allies.

- **Add** key contacts on LinkedIn.
- Send **personal** thank-you notes to mentors and teammates.
- Keep **professional** contact details for potential references.

**Goodwill from a strong exit can lead to referrals and collaborations later.**

## Take a Short Reset

If possible, leave a small gap before the new job.

- Use a few days to rest, reflect, or travel.
- Review lessons from the old role and hopes for the new one.
- Reset your schedule and energy.

**Even a long weekend can help you start fresh.**

## Prepare for Day One

A good start begins before you walk through the door.

- **Revisit** the job description and interview notes.
- **Read** up on the company’s latest news and strategy.
- **Plan** travel or log-in details so nothing catches you off guard.

Confidence on day one sets the tone for the weeks ahead.

## Set 90-Day Goals

Create a simple plan for your first three months.

- **Learn**: meet key stakeholders, understand systems and culture.
- **Deliver**: pick early wins that show impact.
- **Build** **relationships**: schedule coffee chats or virtual check-ins.

Share the plan with your manager to align expectations.

## Seek Feedback Early

Don’t wait for formal reviews.

- Ask your **manager** for a quick check-in after two to three weeks.
- Request **input** on priorities and working style.
- Adjust **quickly** based on feedback.

This shows initiative and openness to learning.

## Keep Your Network Warm

Your previous network remains valuable.

- **Update** your LinkedIn headline and experience once you start.
- Send a **friendly** note to key contacts about the new role.
- Stay in **touch** with mentors and ex-colleagues.

A living network supports future moves and opportunities.

## 💪🏼 Exercise

Prepare for a fresh start

Set aside an hour to prepare both exit and entry:

1. Draft your resignation letter and handover checklist.
2. Outline a personal 90-day plan for the new role.
3. Identify five key relationships to nurture during the transition.

You’ll leave with clarity and enter the new job with purpose.

## 💡 Key Takeaways

- A professional exit protects your reputation and relationships.
- A clear 90-day plan accelerates impact in the new role.
- Early feedback and steady networking keep your career momentum strong.

**Finish well, start strong.**

The way you close one chapter often shapes how confidently you begin the next.