You just got a new job – congrats! However, it can be difficult to transition between companies, especially if the role or company culture is completely different. While getting adjusted may seem daunting at first, there are some ways to make it easier. Consider these tips to smoothly transition into your new job.
1. Give a solid amount of time for notice
If you plan to leave your job voluntarily because you have found another one, it's important to give a fair notice. The more time you give your boss before you leave the company, the better. That way, he can find a suitable replacement for your position without getting stressed. If you give more than two weeks notice before you leave, you can also offer to help train the new person. It will also help you cope with the transition better, instead of you quickly hopping from one job to the other. Lastly, it gives you ample time to tie up all projects that you're working on so you don't leave any messes behind for the next person. Instead, the only thing you leave the company with is a great impression, which will help you in the future when you're looking for a recommendation.
2. Leave behind a detailed list of daily duties
When a new person comes in to fill your role, he or she may not know the first thing to do. He or she could have the experience that meets the position requirements, but that's very different than what goes on each day. As a favor to him or her and your boss, leave a list that walks through your daily tasks. Give handy tips for possible problems he or she may run into and how to get out of them. By providing him or her with this information, you're making it easier on your colleagues and company, who will be irked if the new guy doesn't figure everything out right away.
3. Consider doing an exit interview
Some companies require this type of interview, while others do not. Regardless, you may want to ask for one. This way, you can really give your true opinion on the company practices and offer any advice you have on how they could solve a few issues. While opening your boss's eyes to these issues after you leave may not benefit you, it will help plenty of others. Most of the time, bosses also appreciate the candid words that employees have to say when they leave. It also helps you make peace with the position you're leaving behind.
4. Give contact information
In those final weeks, you'll try to handle any last problems that come your way. After that, you are free to go. However, your replacement may have a lot of questions about the job and issues that arise in their first days in the position. Leaving contact information behind will help you directly offer advice to them and possibly clear up any questions your boss has about final projects and work. More so, it leaves an impression of reliability with your boss, which he'll appreciate.