Breaking up with the boss – MX (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane)
Monday, August 16, 2010
We would all like an emergency escape hatch at work, so when a passenger swore at JetBlue cabin crew member Steven Slater, he fulfilled our dreams when he grabbed two beers, pulled the hatch and slid to safety.
Closer to home, Kristy Fraser-Kirk is claiming $37 million punitive damages against her former bosses at David Jones in a highly publicised sexual harassment case.
Standing up to the boss or dramatically quitting your job can be the stuff of dreams but, failing extraordinary circumstances, how far is too far?
Russo Recruitment general manager Denise Love says quitters should write a letter and think of their track record when they announce their resignation.
''Always step back from being emotional,'' Love says.
''It's a professional letter, not the place to vent your concerns or overly express yourself.''
Love says those wanting to thank their boss for the good times should stick to a succinct list of skills they learned while on the job instead of a gushy ''you're like a parent to me'' tome.
For those who are feeling jilted, she says it's better to request an exit interview than spill it in a letter.
''If an exit interview isn't offered, I think it's definitely appropriate to request one where you can offer constructive advice to senior management.
''It's a time to highlight flaws they may not be aware of, but it must be done in a constructive, positive way.''
Then there's the touchy situation of ''cheating'' on your boss with another.
If you've been wooed to another organisation, Love says it's best to keep the dirty details to yourself.
''It does depend on the situation but, if you're leaving your job to start with a competitor in the same industry, it can definitely be a delicate situation.''
