How can senior leaders maintain positive workplace relationships during a career transition?

1 Communicate effectively

Communication is key to maintaining positive workplace relationships during a career transition. You need to inform your current stakeholders about your decision, the reasons behind it, and the impact on your projects and responsibilities. You also need to acknowledge their contributions, express your gratitude, and offer your support during the handover. Additionally, you need to update your former stakeholders about your new role, the opportunities and challenges you face, and the value you can bring to them. You also need to keep in touch regularly, share relevant insights, and seek feedback.

2 Manage expectations

Managing expectations is another important aspect of maintaining positive workplace relationships during a career transition. You need to be realistic and transparent about what you can and cannot do in your new role, and how it will affect your availability and involvement with your current and former stakeholders. You also need to set clear boundaries and priorities, and avoid overcommitting or underdelivering. Furthermore, you need to be respectful and professional, and avoid burning bridges or creating conflicts.

3 Leverage your network

Leveraging your network is a valuable way to maintain positive workplace relationships during a career transition. You need to identify and connect with the key stakeholders in your new role, and learn about their goals, needs, and preferences. You also need to build trust and rapport, and demonstrate your competence and credibility. Additionally, you need to maintain and nurture your existing relationships, and offer your help, advice, or referrals when appropriate. You also need to seek and provide opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth.

4 Seek support

Seeking support is a crucial step to maintain positive workplace relationships during a career transition. You need to recognize and address your own emotions, challenges, and needs, and seek help from your mentors, coaches, or peers. You also need to be open and receptive to feedback, guidance, and advice from your current and former stakeholders, and appreciate their perspectives and experiences. Moreover, you need to join and participate in relevant communities, groups, or events, and expand your network and knowledge.

6 Keep learning

Keeping learning is a vital skill to maintain positive workplace relationships during a career transition. You need to embrace and adapt to change, and seek new challenges and opportunities. You also need to update and upgrade your skills, knowledge, and competencies, and stay relevant and competitive. Additionally, you need to learn from your current and former stakeholders, and ask for their feedback, suggestions, and recommendations. You also need to share your learnings and best practices with them, and contribute to their development and growth.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?