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How to Leave Your Job Without Burning Bridges: A Career Transition Plan That Keeps Doors Open

Dec 11, 2025

Thinking of leaving your job doesn't have to be a dramatic exit. Learn how to approach your boss with professionalism and gratitude. Discover practical ways to ensure a smooth transition and keep relationships intact. Hear personal stories illustrating the importance of leaving on good terms. Scott emphasizes shifting the mindset from burning bridges to building partnerships. Get tips on planning conversations, proposing transition actions, and navigating emotional reactions. It's all about moving on while leaving your team better off!

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ANECDOTE

Generous Notice And Transition Time

Scott Anthony Barlow gave two months' notice at Target and sometimes six months in later roles while training replacements.
He negotiated flexible hours (Thursdays until noon) to work on transitions and protect the team.

INSIGHT

Reframe Leaving As Bridge-Building

Reframe leaving as setting others up to succeed rather than avoiding burned bridges.
Aim to make the team and organization better off after you leave.

ANECDOTE

Long Tenure, Crushing Burnout

Michael spent 18 years at Sony, rising to VP of worldwide distribution finance before burning out.
His doctor warned his health would collapse if he didn't change jobs, yet he still felt indispensable.

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When you start thinking about leaving your job, it's easy to imagine extremes — a dramatic mic-drop exit or the fear that your team will see you as disloyal. 🙃

But a career transition doesn't have to be messy or bridge-burning. You can move into work that fits better while leaving your role, team, and reputation in great shape — think bridge-building, not bridge-burning.

Scott breaks down exactly how to approach your boss once you know it's time to make a change: how to plan the meeting, what to say (and what not to), and how to create a smooth handoff that protects relationships and future opportunities. You'll also hear real examples of people who left well — and how that decision paid off long after they moved on.

Leaving a job can be a win for everyone involved. It all comes down to how intentionally you cross that bridge — and yes, leave the lighter fluid at home. 🔥🚫

What you'll learn:

A step-by-step approach to resigning professionally so you protect your reputation and keep doors open.
How to plan and lead the conversation with your boss, including what to say and how to frame your next move.
Practical ways to create a smooth transition plan that supports your team and leaves your role in great shape.
Why a well-handled exit can deepen trust and turn coworkers into long-term allies.
How to move toward a better-fit, more fulfilling job while staying respectful and relationship-focused.

Our book, Happen To Your Career: An Unconventional Approach To Career Change and Meaningful Work, is now available on audiobook! Visit happentoyourcareer.com/audible to order it now! Visit happentoyourcareer.com/book for more information or buy the print or ebook here!

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