9. Make a Smooth Exit and Start Strong

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.

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.

• 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.