Paralegals: Don't Burn Bridges

By: Laura McDonald
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:23:42
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There’s a new job on the horizon. You get to leave your old job. You know, the one with the boss you can’t stand. The really mean one. The one you’d love to give a piece of your mind. Matter of fact, you think you’ll do just that…before you leave….

It’s perfectly fine to act that one out in fantasy, as many times as delights you. But heed this advice – don’t do it in reality! And here’s why.

Life has a funny way of tossing curve balls our way. That very same ex-boss with whom you shared your parting piece of mind? Suddenly, he’s opposing counsel on a new case your new attorney boss just accepted. Even worse, he could be your attorney’s co-counsel on a case!

Perish the thought, but what if for some unforeseen reason, your new job doesn’t work out? Now you’re scrambling to interview elsewhere. You need a recent recommendation. It’s going to be rather awkward to ask the one who vividly recalls you spouting off as you waltzed out the door.

One certainly doesn’t have to lie when leaving an unpleasant position. “Thank you, Mr. Smith, it’s been great working with you. I couldn’t wait to get to work every day. I’ll miss you.” That’s really piling it on, isn’t it? If that were true, why are you leaving?

If questioned as to why you’re leaving, choose a politically correct comment, such as: “I think my skills are better suited to the new position,” or “The benefits are simply too good to pass up.” Then, go the extra mile. Offer to train your replacement. Ensure the workload you’re leaving is manageable – complete tasks that may be difficult for the new employee to assume. Leave detailed notes regarding ongoing assignments, and an updated list of any deadlines or to-do’s for both your boss and your replacement.

The best way to leave a job, even a job for the boss you really won’t miss, is with style and grace. Never burn bridges. You may have to cross them again!

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Laura McDonald is a paralegal, employed by Michael L. Hawkins & Associates, P.L.L.C. She is a member of NFPA (National Federation of Paralegal Associations). Laura is experienced in the areas of personal injury, civil litigation, family, environmental and corporate law, estate planning and bankruptcy.

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