Got a job but lookin? You aren’t alone. According to the department of labor, a record 4M people this past April quit their jobs for new opportunities. The Great Resignation is officially upon us. Dun Dun Duuuun. 

U.S. workers are leaving their jobs for more money, more flexibility, more happiness. But before you go dancing in the streets….heed this warning: 

Don’t leave before you leave.

Play To The Whistle

One day, long before pandemics I was in a room where our COO gave this piece of career caution: “Don’t leave before you leave.” 

Meaning, don’t check out while you’re looking for a new gig. Don’t ease up because you’re no longer into it. Play until you hear the whistle. 

Why is this such good advice? 

3 Reasons To Stay Bought-In To The Bitter End

Reason #1: Things look different at the top

Have you maximized your growth potential in your current role? To the victor go the spoils. If you’re middle of the pack, become the top guy or gal on your team, before you leave. 

The view is different from the top of the mountain. You might find that different opportunities come your way when you’re the go-to person. If you get to the top and there’s still nothing there, use that experience to get a better job somewhere else. 

Reason #2: Breadcrumbs

You never know how a new gig is going to work out. You just don’t. In 1-2 years down the road, what if you want to come back? If you check out 3-6 months before you leave how will you be remembered? Be a class act until your final day. Want a surprise?! You’ll actually be more valuable to the company if you ever do return. 

A good friend of mine recently returned to his former employer after a 2-year stint at a Fortune 50 company. Know what they gave him? 

A promotion. 

Reason #3: Karma

A little more squishy, but by golly this one is real. You still care about the folks you work with right? When you check out, who is picking up the extra workload? Who is counting on you? Whether it’s a high-five or a work project, no one wants to be left hanging. 

Wrapping Up

Turns out I’m one of the 4M. I started my new gig on April 15th. After I gave my notice, I spent the next 4 weeks (which in hindsight I don’t recommend) helping to interview for my replacement. I worked evenings and weekends. I wanted to put every last finishing touch I could to leave things better than I found them. 

Will that extra effort ever pay off? No clue.  

But at least I took my old COO’s advice. I hope you do too.