by Angela Copeland | Aug 3, 2015 | Advice, Newsletter
There’s probably been once or twice when you’ve thought of saying, “I quit!” and walking out of work. Or, better yet — just not going back again tomorrow. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could forget about your current job and just start over?
Unfortunately, it’s just not that easy. As much as you may hate to admit it, your current job will influence your next job and your job after that. Leaving a workplace is an art form.
In some cases, it may be fairly easy. But, in others, it can be very tricky. You’ll find that some of your coworkers treat your departure much like a breakup. There may be drama, and it’s possible there are people you’re close with now who you’ll never see again.
Keep it quiet
At times, looking for a job can feel like no big deal. You may think, “Everyone’s looking, right? What is there to hide?” But, think again. Telling your work buddy or cube-mate about your plans could get you into hot water. In many states, your employer can fire you for no reason. If your boss believes you’ve become disloyal to the company (because you’re searching for a new job), don’t expect to stay around for long. In fact, you could be fired the same day. Losing your job unexpectedly not only creates bad blood between you and your company — it takes away your power.
Tell your boss in person
When you have a new job offer, tell your boss about your new plans. But, wait until it’s in writing and signed. Keep in mind that this change could come as a surprise to your boss. Take the time to tell them first, and do it in person. Don’t let them hear rumors from other departments — and definitely don’t send an e-mail. Even if you don’t care for your boss, tell them in person.
Don’t give too much notice
This may sound counter-intuitive, but I don’t recommend giving an overly long period of notice. If you look closely, you’ll find that many top executives only give the required two weeks notice when they shift to a new company. Generally speaking, transitioning your work to someone new takes two to three weeks. Beyond that, you’ll find you will continue to work your normal job up to the two or three week mark. For example, if you give two months, chances are good that the transition won’t actually happen until the end. But, in that long period of notice, people will begin behaving differently. Knowing you’re leaving soon, they may act out toward you or try to take out their frustrations on you. It’s not a guaranteed outcome, but it’s definitely a possibility when you give more notice than what’s needed.
Do a great job — every single day
Your reputation is the most important thing you have career wise. The last few weeks of your employment with a company is not the time to slack off. Don’t leave your coworkers and old boss left to wonder if they really knew you or your work. Force yourself to show up on time, stay all day, and do your best work ever. Work hard to transition your projects to someone new. Your efforts will not go unnoticed.
Keep your negative thoughts to yourself
Often (or lets be honest — almost always), you leave a job because you’re not happy. If you were, you’d stay there. Makes sense, right? So, by the time you’ve found a new job, you may be ready to really tell it like it is. On top of that, once your coworkers know you’re leaving, a crazy thing starts to happen. Everyone starts to show up in your office. They want to know your gossip. They want to tell you their gossip. They want your help leaving their job. They want to tell you how unhappy they are. It’s amazing how much dirt you can learn in just the last few weeks with the company. But, be careful. Spreading rumors or talking trash about your employer is never helpful.
Think twice about exit interviews
Yep, you read that right. Exit interviews are often provided by Human Resources as an optional way to leave feedback about your experience. It’s presented as a positive thing, and many employees love participating. It gives them a chance to feel heard. But, beware of the potential trap. If you’re leaving because you dislike your boss, this is not the time to air your dirty laundry. First of all, your company probably already knows about your boss — and hey, the boss still works there. What good will your negative comments really do in the long run? What they may do however is burn a bridge between you and a former boss.
Don’t burn bridges
Even if you got your new job without the help of your current company, you will need them again at some point. Even if someone isn’t your favorite, keep the door open for future possibilities. Do your best not to write people off on your way out. And, realize that they may also be really unhappy at their jobs. Leaving the door open creates future opportunities you never even thought of.
I hope these tips have helped you. Visit CopelandCoaching.com to find more tips to improve your job search. If I can be of assistance to you, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.
Also, be sure to subscribe to my Copeland Coaching Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Stitcher where I discuss career advice every Tuesday! If you’ve already heard the podcast and enjoy it, please consider leaving a review in Apple Podcasts or Stitcher.
Happy hunting!
Angela Copeland
@CopelandCoach
by Angela Copeland | Aug 3, 2015 | Job Posting
The American Cancer Society is seeking a Senior Director of Community Engagement in Memphis, TN.
Leads the integration of community engagement, health systems, and corporate and distinguished partner activities for an assigned geography centered around a major metropolitan area. Accountable for mission and income targets through relationship management and engagement of locally based corporations, small health systems, volunteer leadership groups and other community-based assets. Ensures goal achievement through the effective leadership and management of diverse staff, and the engagement and mobilization of volunteers.
To learn more, or to apply online, visit the American Cancer Society job posting here.
by Angela Copeland | Aug 2, 2015 | Job Posting
Tatcha is seeking a Director of Social Media in San Francisco, CA.
In this role, you will join the digital marketing team to lead social media and community management initiatives, including leading the social strategy to support marketing activities and drive company growth. Position Tatcha as a leader in the social media space through creative campaigns, concepts and integrations with key social channels. Creating and executing on a social media content calendar that will engage, grow and convert our followers while building TATCHA as a prestige beauty brand.
To learn more, or to apply online, visit the Tatcha website here.
by Angela Copeland | Aug 1, 2015 | Job Posting
Hilton is seeking a Manager, Brand Culture & Internal Communications in Memphis, TN.
The Manager of Brand Culture and Internal Communications will be responsible for assisting the Director and other members of management with developing and coordinating the culture and internal messaging delivery for the Hilton Garden Inn brand. The Team Member will be responsible for assisting in the deployment of all culture and communications to internal and external audiences. This will include Hilton Garden Inn General Managers, Sales Managers and Hotel Team Members; Hilton Garden Inn Owners, Franchisees and Management Company representatives; and Hilton Garden Inn Brand Team Members as well as other Hilton Worldwide Team Members.
To learn more, or to apply online, visit the Hilton website here.
by Angela Copeland | Jul 31, 2015 | Job Posting
Smith & Nephew is seeking an Associate Global Product Manager in Memphis, TN.
Assists with ongoing management and growth of Alternate Therapies products worldwide. Assists in the development and implementation of the marketing plan objectives through Smith & Nephew internal personnel and externally through Smith & Nephew global distribution network.
To learn more, or to apply online, visit the Smith & Nephew job posting here.
by Angela Copeland | Jul 31, 2015 | Advice, Media
My latest Memphis Daily News column is out, “How To Say Thank You.”
One important component to any job search is the art of saying thank you. It may seem cliché, but saying thanks never gets old. Expressing thanks shows your appreciation for others and nurtures your connections for future interactions.
There are two easy ways to send a thank you. One is via email and the other is in a handwritten note. Email alone works in some casual situations, but handwritten notes are still important in interviews. In fact, when you send a thank you card, it’s often the first one the interviewer has gotten in a while. Being different allows you to stand out in a positive way.
To read my entire article, and to learn the best way to write and send your thank you notes, visit the Memphis Daily News website here.
by Angela Copeland | Jul 31, 2015 | Job Posting
NVIDIA is seeking a Director of Marketing in Santa Clara, CA.
As a key member of NVIDIA Global Marketing team, the Director of Marketing is responsible for leading and creating campaigns and supporting initiatives to help the NVIDIA GeForce team achieve brand building and revenue goals. You will be the global marketing champion for the business unit’s (BU) campaign and product launches and act as the conduit between the BU, Corporate Marketing, PR, Sales and external customers and partners. The successful candidate must be a highly driven and experienced marketing professional with a track record of building innovative digital marketing programs for new and/or established consumer brands.
To learn more, or to apply online, visit the NVIDIA website here.
by Angela Copeland | Jul 30, 2015 | Job Posting
Tiffany & Co. is seeking a Director, Global Customer Analytics in New York, NY.
The Director of Global Customer Analytics will be responsible for establishing & leading the Customer Analytics framework, identifying strategic and new applications of customer analytics/reporting/insights for the business and for managing the process for mining and applying database customer insights. S/he will report into the Marketing Group Director, Global CRM Strategies & Programs and partner with global and regional Marketing, Retail & IT teams to leverage customer data and insights to drive best-in-class marketing and retail strategies & programs.
To learn more, or to apply online, visit the Tiffany & Co. job posting here.
by Angela Copeland | Jul 30, 2015 | Job Posting
The Memphis Grizzlies are seeking a Coordinator, Promotions & Event Presentation in Memphis, TN.
The Promotions Coordinator is responsible for the implementation and management of all cross-platform promotions and area marketing initiatives in support of the Memphis Grizzlies and FedExForum. The Coordinator will maintain relationships and handle day-to-day partner interactions to further the goal of growing the Grizzlies brand, fan base throughout the region, and positive consumer behaviour for both the Grizzlies and FedExForum.
To learn more, or to apply online, visit the Memphis Grizzlies job posting here.
by Angela Copeland | Jul 29, 2015 | Job Posting
Nike is seeking a North America Basketball Brand Marketing Specialist in Beaverton, OR.
As the North America Basketball Brand Marketing Specialist, you will work to inspire and enable the next generation of basketball players. You will assist in the creation and execution of Category and seasonal initiatives for Nike Basketball that drive brand strength, fuel consumer demand and strengthen the connection with consumers. You will be the voice of the Nike Basketball consumer and protector of the Brand. You will maintain a close relationship with key consumer groups and work closely with Sports Marketing, Digital Marketing, Retail Marketing, Entertainment Marketing and Territory Marketing teams to identify influencers and stay current on market trends.
To learn more, or to apply online, visit the Nike website here.
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