Career: Should You Let Your Employer Know You're Looking?

I've only changed organizations once in my career so I am by no means an expert on this topic but I think it's an important question to ask yourself when you begin to explore other career opportunities. I've heard stories of an employee having their resume posted on Monster only to come to work the following day to be let go because they were "looking" elsewhere. This type of scenario begs the question of whether or not it's a good practice to let your employer know you may not be happy.

If you read my last post, you'll know that I resigned from my job and honestly, since I've done that, I think it's not a bad thing to let your Manager know you're not happy. Now it definitely depends on your position. Often to protect company information and property, you very well could be walked out so it's important to prepare for the worst case scenario. Most importantly is that you go about it in an incredibly professional way. Below are my tips to prepare yourself for that conversation.

1. Dissect your reasons for wanting to leave the company

They are going to ask you why so be prepared with your answer. Make sure you can communicate it clearly and confidently. Also be prepared to answer some follow up questions.

2. Be prepared for a counter offer

Some companies will counter offer if you put in your notice for another job, especially if they want to keep you. Handling a counter offer well will depend on how well you've thought about the reasons you want to leave. If it's strictly due to money, give the counter offer a solid thought.

3. Don't ever burn bridges

You always want to be able to use past employers as a reference so don't make any moves that would hurt a connection. This includes sharing some of the real reasons why you want to leave with your co-workers. Word travels fast in every organization and bad press could shorten your notice.

4. Be confident

Go into the conversation with the confidence that you are making the right decision. Wear a power suit that day, have a typed up resignation letter ready in the event they try to talk you out of it. Believe in yourself that you are making the right decision.