Leaving a position can be terrible for everyone involved if handled poorly. I had a great experience in 2004 when I left a yearly contract position to take a similar position elsewhere. Not only did my supervisor at the time write me a glowing recommendation, but he actually helped me find the new position, even though he was very happy with the work I'd done for him.
There are several ways a boss can benefit from sending a good employee to a better job.
In my case, my employer knew that I was a limited resource within his business. I had a yearly contract and he knew that I was looking for permanent work. Though my employer wanted to hire and pay me more, he didn’t have the resources to do so.
Likewise, he knew that I would continue to be an asset for his organization if he made the transition as smooth as possible. Because he helped me get a better position, I felt indebted to him and wanted to return the favor.
Helping me to find a new job was a good networking opportunity for my boss as well. When he discovered the new job, he was aware that the offer came from people he knew professionally. He knew that sending them a great candidate for that position would help his business relationship.
I was able to aid to him in other ways once I left by finding new recruits for him and suggesting business opportunities.
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Should you do the same?
If you have the opportunity to help one of your employees with a career move, take it. The employee is not a permanent asset and if you help him move on with a positive experience, you'll benefit later as a result.
A week ago I received an email from someone who I mentored almost a decade ago. He'd discovered my writings online and wanted to thank me for my efforts. He also passed along a few items of great professional use to me, including a lead on potentially hiring an assistant.
Your employees are your greatest asset, but they won’t always be your employees. Do what you can to ensure that even when they’re not your employees, they’re still your assets.
Image credit: NovriWahyuPerdana
