Ask Heather: Moving on from your first job

Have a question about finding, landing or succeeding at internships or entry-level jobs? E-mail them to entrylevelexaminer@gmail.com to be included in an upcoming “Ask Heather.”

Q: As arduous as it can be to find an entry-level job in this difficult economic climate, it is hard for some of us to imagine moving on from our first job to the next golden opportunity. Can you discuss some of the etiquette that goes along with moving from one organization to another? Do we give out our personal or professional business cards? How and when do we alert our current HR department and supervisor? When and how do we ask for letters of recommendation? Are there any faux pas that young professionals often make in this process?

A: These are fantastic questions, and I’m sure some that many have been wondering. As always, my answer to a lot of your questions is “it depends”—on your boss, the organization, etc.

Let’s discuss etiquette first. It is customary to “move on” in writing. Make sure you have one letter ready for your supervisor and one for HR (if your organization has a human resources department). No matter your reason for leaving, be courteous and grateful for all you’ve learned and the people you’ve met in your letter. Set up a specific meeting time to deliver this news (and the letter) to your boss. Don’t just walk in there.

Also, arrange to meet with HR immediately after your appointment with your boss. They might have some paperwork for you to fill out, want to schedule an exit interview, etc.

You also ask about timing. Again, typically employees give two weeks notice, but depending on your organization, you might be asked to leave immediately—be prepared for that. Regardless, I recommend giving a full two weeks notice, out of politeness if nothing else.

Ask for letters of recommendation as soon as possible, although perhaps not right after you drop the news, depending on the individual’s reaction. These letters take some time to craft, so you want to respect that. If your company ends up asking you to leave that very same day, you might end up having to e-mail the individual(s) from whom you seek reference letters.

Definitely leave your colleagues your personal contact information, and network with them often after you leave. You don’t want to lose these connections!

I’ve left both jobs at which I was extremely happy and extremely unhappy. Leaving is never easy. There are many faux pas you can make along the way, particularly in the delivery of your news and controlling your emotions. No matter what is said to you along the way, keep your emotions in check and be as polite as possible. Don’t burn any bridges!