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Member Benefit

How to Deal With An Employee's Resignation

Published Tue May 31 2022

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As the Great Resignation rolls on, one or more of your employees will likely be leaving. After all, over four million people quit their jobs in the first quarter of 2022, and it‘s estimated that 44 percent of employees are currently searching for new positions. So how should a leader respond when an employee does resign? Obviously, it‘s important to not take it personally, not be critical of their new position, or try and guilt them into staying, but what should you do now? First, notice your first reactions. Are you surprised? Hurt? Angry? Upset? Name your emotions and be as specific as you can. Negative emotional responses are often a tapestry of nuance, and understanding what you‘re feeling will help you take the best next steps. After you‘ve dealt with your emotions, be curious about the decision. Where are they going and why? Why would this be a better opportunity for them? What could you have done differently to make them stay? When these questions are presented sincerely, an employee‘s departure could be a growth opportunity for your organization.

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