Reacting when people leave

Be careful how you treat people when they leave.

I have heard so many stories of managers who behave inappropriately after someone on their team has resigned. In some cases, managers can become dismissive, ignoring the person and their contributions during their notice period.

In more extreme cases, managers can become obstinate, openly rude, blaming and critical of the individual, whether behind closed doors or even in front of others. Even long-serving, valued members of a team can be treated appallingly by the leadership team after resigning.

When somebody resigns to take another opportunity that they feel is right for them, it is important to remain professional. It is understandable that a manager can take it personally when someone in their team resigns. Even in the most corporate environments, there is still a personal, human element to the working relationship - so a resignation can stir up messy feelings for even the most hardy, experienced leader.

It is a rejection.

A break-up.

However, it is so important to maintain professional boundaries and treat people with respect.

This is one of many reasons why anyone in a business leadership role needs to work constantly on developing their self-awareness - to avoid reacting and acting impulsively, which can burst any bubble of professionalism that they are otherwise trying to portray.

Of course, other members of the team will see how you treat someone when they resign too. If you are unpleasant towards someone who is about to leave, remember that everyone else in the team is likely to hear about it.

If you can relate to this, either as someone who has been treated badly or someone who struggles when other people resign, you are welcome to get in touch for a private, confidential conversation.