Listed below are some points that you should consider when attempting a job change.

Haste Makes Waste

DO NOT quit your present job in a hurry. Always think about big picture and before deciding to take the final plunge.

If you are on the fence (you know when you are), you should talk to a mentor or other trusted advisor about your intended move.

Avoid (over) Familiarity

Avoid discussing your resignation with others at your present workplace. It is natural that if your boss finds out about the intended switch through another person, he or she will probably feel cheated, maybe even resentful.

If nothing seems to work out at your current job, do make sure that you serve notice period according to official company policy. Do not leave impulsively, and complete the projects you have been assigned to execute.

Respect Confidentiality

It is a known fact that every organization has some sort of data privacy policy. You should refrain from taking any confidential data when leaving. It goes without saying that you should also avoid sabotaging or deleting important documents.

Ensure that you do not take any vital data and shred unwanted documents and files. Even if you have bad feelings, make sure your integrity remains intact - leave your job with dignity and grace.

Earn Goodwill

Continue to maintain good relationships with your existing clients. If your relationships with your clientele have been cordial and satisfactory, management will be happy to take you back (if the situation arises) on hearing clients speak positively of your abilities.

Having said that, it is important to make your clients aware of your job switch.

The Final Goodbye

It speaks volumes for you as a person to send a thank you note to your clients before you leave. Write a very professional letter of resignation and follow the format prescribed by the companys human resource department. Remember that your letter will play a very important role in your return to the company, if need be. Highlight your key accomplishments during your tenure with the company in the letter, without sounding too pompous.

Make sure that you communicate your appreciation for your boss and colleagues. Make sure that you let management know that you will be more than willing to support them to find a suitable replacement and in the final hand-over phase, especially in the case of pending projects.

It is essential when you attempt a job switch to leave on a good note. The goodwill you attract at your current workplace will go a long way with you; on your resume, through security checks and even with the offer you are chasing.

Remember that it is necessary to pay attention to finer details before you move on. Your employer and colleagues could be your future references on your resume.