Do You Have an Exit Strategy?

By Dedra Perlmutter, Senior Career Coach and Human Resources Manager, JVS Careers

Not looking to leave your current position? No need for an exit strategy! FALSE

Whether you are actively looking to make a move or not, everyone should have an exit strategy. What if the day comes when you unexpectedly find yourself looking for employment? Better to be prepared than surprised! Everyone should always be in a passive job search.

So what is a passive job search? It means that even though you are not actively looking for a job, you are prepared if need be. This includes having your resume up to date, your social media accounts up to date and active, continuing to build your professional portfolio, and of course, maintaining contact with your network.

Another piece of your exit strategy should include access to all of your contacts – on your personal devices – not your employer’s. Everyone knows how important networking is, and staying in contact with your connections is key.

Don’t forget about the professional relationships you have with your current employer and colleagues. Remember to keep those relationships positive and active. You never know when they will come in handy for references or letters of recommendation.

If you are ready to turn in your resignation, and maybe “chomping at the bit to tell your boss,” keep a few things in mind:
• If you have accepted another job, make sure it is official before you resign.
• Give the required notice; check the policy manual to find out how long that is.
• Keep it short and simple.
• Leave on a very positive note; no need to “burn any bridges” even if you are disgruntled.

Since being prepared is key to almost everything, make sure you have an exit strategy. Even if you don’t have plans to make a move, unfortunately there might be a time where the decision is made for you. You might as well be ready!

Contact us at JVS Careers to learn more.

Dedra Perlmutter, CPRW, SHRM-CP, PHR, is a Senior Career Coach, Human Resources Manager, and Scholarship Administrator at JVS Careers. Dedra provides extensive knowledge to clients in the areas of job searching, interviewing, networking, personal branding, image and career strategies. With almost 20 years of HR experience, in a variety of industries, Dedra is well-versed in recruiting and employment, and brings with her “insider knowledge” of what employers are looking for in potential employees. By leading workshops and working with clients individually, Dedra is able to serve as a resource for those that are looking to make a career change or to enhance their current career path.

To contact Dedra Perlmutter by phone, please call (513) 745-2904, or email her at [email protected].