Do you need to declare independence from your current job?

I was in Philadelphia recently for a conference and had the opportunity to go on a walking tour of many of the landmarks.  I also purchased some gifts for my children, including a copy of the Declaration of Independence.  It was my first time in Philadelphia, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.  Bringing that document home got me thinking about how candidates "declare independence" all the time through their job searches and career choices.

In the course of this declaration I have seen people do it many different ways - a few good and many not so good.  Far too often people think only of the future and fail to hold the present or the past in regard during their decision-making process.  Here is why all three are critical to the process being successful:

Past - if you fail to think back on where you have been in your career, you will bring no lessons with you to a new employer.  Just because you are looking to leave a job does not mean you cannot bring valuable knowledge, experience, or ideas with you.  You may have had a bad boss, undesirable colleagues, a bad commute, poor office working conditions, or a number of other things.  But you probably wouldn't have worked there at all if there weren't some good points.  Embrace those things and only leave the bad behind when you make a job move or interview for a new career option.

Present - the biggest part of living in the present is handling the final stages of the interview process and eventually resignation with dignity and respect.  I have recently guided a few candidates through precarious acceptances and subsequent resignations.  There were a lot of moving parts in each instance and fortunately the candidates were able to look at the bigger picture and stay in the moment.  Whether it be a bitter boss or an uneducated colleague, be certain to remain positive and professional when asked why you are leaving.  Do not say anything that may make you feel great for ten minutes, but ultimately you will regret.

Future - although this may seem like the easy part and full of excitement, there are a few tips to make the transition to a new job even easier.  First of all, stay in touch with your new employer.  If you don't start for 2-3 weeks, check in at least once or twice to ensure everything is handled administratively.  It also gives you a chance to reinforce the idea that you are excited about the move.  This leaves no doubt in your new employer's mind that you are committed to the move and looking forward to your first day.

In conclusion it is always good to know that you're not doing this on your own.  Just as our forefathers knew they would need support to send our country down a good path, a candidate looking to make a career move should always depend upon others to guide you to a good decision.  Maybe a mentor, a business coach, a family member, or a friendly recruiter (insert shameless plug) is what you need to get you through the journey successfully.