Leaving an executive job can bring about a wide range of emotions. It’s a significant life decision that comes with added complexity for executives. I have personally gone through this experience, and it has taught me invaluable lessons. So, let’s dispel the confusion and discuss career advice about leaving executive jobs.
You’ve poured your heart and soul into building your career and reaching the top rungs of leadership. It’s natural to feel both excited about new opportunities and uncertain about stepping away from the familiar. However, sometimes, leaving executive jobs is necessary for your career success. Let’s explore some tips on smoothly transitioning into a new career path.
Table Of Contents:
- Knowing When It’s Time to Leave Executive Jobs
- Leaving Gracefully
- FAQs about Leaving Executive Jobs
- Conclusion
Knowing When It’s Time to Leave Executive Jobs
Let’s be honest. You didn’t climb the corporate ladder to be miserable. If you’re reading this, a part of you is searching for that nudge, that reassurance that it’s okay to consider leaving executive jobs. You might be seeking more than just a new job, but a whole new work environment.
One clear indicator it might be time to leave your executive leadership job is a persistent decline in your learning rate. Frustrating situations are par for the course, but if you’re no longer extracting valuable lessons, it might be a sign to start thinking about your options. This could be a good time to work with an executive outplacement or career coaching service.
Burnout Isn’t a Badge of Honor
Ever find yourself constantly drained by work? Everyone has tough days and weeks. But if you’re journaling your daily energy level and it consistently trends downward over a quarter, pay attention. It might be time to start giving your two weeks’ notice.
As career strategist Erin Kennedy says, you must listen to yourself. Over her 25+ years in the career field, she’s helped thousands. Her company, Professional Resume Services, Inc., even helps executives polish their resumes to prepare for new roles.
Selling a Dream You Don’t Believe In
This one’s a biggie. If you struggle to authentically convince top-tier talent to join your team, that’s a red flag. Remember when you were the one eager to dive in? Losing that spark impacts your effectiveness.
Leaving Gracefully
Unlike rage-quitting, a graceful exit leaving executive jobs requires tact and planning after a signed offer letter. Here’s how to navigate the transition smoothly. A smooth transition from your current company can ensure future success. You can leave your current role while making a good impression and not burning bridges.
Have the Talk
Go into the conversation with your CEO with clarity and respect. This isn’t an ambush, so give your boss plenty of notice. Express gratitude for the journey and be upfront about your timeline and what you’re looking for next.
You might be surprised by the counteroffer or even receive a compensation package to stay. However, as Executive Connexions reminds us, stand firm in your decision even if a counteroffer arises.
Plan Your Exit Like a Pro
Leaving an executive role isn’t just about packing your desk. Strategic planning requires minimizing disruption and setting your team up for long-term success. Review your stock options, rollover your 401k, and any other loose ends with your compensation package. In the words of Will Larson, author of An Elegant Puzzle, “The most common mistake outgoing executives make is trying too hard to help when leaving executive jobs.”
Transitioning from leader to follower isn’t easy. It sometimes means supporting plans you disagree with for the good of the team. Use your remaining time wisely. Create detailed handover documents, delegate responsibilities, and provide support during your replacement’s onboarding. Aim to make the transition as seamless as possible.
Navigating the Resume Gap
Many worry that a short stint in an executive role can hurt their resume. My own experience and discussions with recruiters have taught me otherwise. If something is genuinely amiss (think financial fraud uncovered within months), it’s generally understood. Transparency is critical when interviewing for new jobs.
| Scenario | Impact on Resume |
|---|---|
| Leaving before 3 Months | Omit from resume |
| Staying for 2+ Years | Minimal impact |
| Company Acquired | Tenure is less critical; focus on your narrative |
| Recruited for New Role | Tenure is less significant |
It is important to remember that you want to be upfront and honest in an interview for an executive job. However, use good judgment and not speak negatively about a previous employer. If you are working with an executive search firm, be open with them about your situation. They will help you present yourself as the best possible candidate.
Leaving Your Executive Job on Your Terms
Now for some personal career advice insights. After navigating the ups and downs of various executive roles, I realized prioritizing my energy and seeking continuous growth is paramount. While stability on paper matters, it’s equally crucial to acknowledge the risk of burning out.
Stepping back and allowing yourself time to rest and reflect might be the very thing that propels your career forward in the long run. Start thinking about your working arrangements and whether you desire more work-life balance in your next role. Use this time to hone in on what you want in your working life and your next career move.
The process of leaving your executive job doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety. By understanding the nuances involved, approaching it with clarity, and focusing on a graceful exit, you set yourself up for continued success, whatever your next chapter. Update your LinkedIn profile and start networking. There are a lot of hidden jobs out there that might be a great deal for you.
FAQs about Leaving Executive Jobs
Can You Quit an Executive Position?
Yes, you can quit any current job. However, remember that higher positions often come with greater responsibility during the transition phase. It’s crucial to leave gracefully and support your team and company during the transition. This could involve helping with current projects.
Honor your notice period, prepare detailed handovers, and, if feasible, help train your successor. A smooth handover shows professionalism and respect, setting you up for positive recommendations for future roles. Leaving an executive job does not have to mean burning bridges. Have an honest discussion with your direct reports and the rest of the management team to make the transition go smoothly.
How Much Notice Should an Executive Give When Resigning?
Refer to your employment contract, which outlines your required notice period. Typically, executives provide at least four weeks, but a more extended period may be needed for a smoother transition. As noted by Rutherford Search, honoring this period maintains positive relationships with employers, potentially impacting future endeavors.
Negotiating your departure timeline openly ensures alignment between personal and organizational needs, setting a positive precedent for future collaborations. Express gratitude for your time at the company you’re leaving, and don’t be afraid to ask for help with your transition.
What to Do When Executives Start Leaving?
If you’re noticing an exodus of executives, especially if multiple individuals move toward the same industries or competitors, there might be underlying issues within the company or leadership. As Will Larson points out in “The Engineering Executive’s Primer,” this might create what he terms a “values oasis” where one department might have differing values from the company.
A “values oasis” may seem comfortable. Still, if it creates issues for the executive during their exit, their loyalty should be with their team and build the organization for future success beyond their tenure. Pay attention to how your company handles these executive career change departures. It may also be a sign for you to start searching for a new opportunity.
How to Transition Out of an Executive Role?
Transitioning gracefully from an executive position requires more than a standard resignation letter. It involves transparency about career moves, openness with your team, and adhering to confidentiality agreements. As Forbes emphasizes, integrity is shown by being the same person you were when entering a job as you are when leaving it.
Leaving on good terms opens doors for the future. Aim for clear communication, empathy towards those staying, and consistent personal branding throughout your departure. Try to be helpful to the person who is replacing you. This will help solidify a good relationship even after you are gone. Help where you can without disrupting your new work schedule.
Conclusion
Leaving executive jobs is never simple. Yet, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming by being prepared with the right exit package and thoughtful in your job search approach.
Subscribe to my LEAN 360 newsletter to learn more about startup insights.
