It’s a scenario no manager wants to face: your star employee hands in their resignation. Panic sets in. Deadlines loom. The urge to quickly fill the gap is overwhelming. But wait – there’s a strategic way to handle this.
If you’re upset because you think that you are the cause of the employee leaving… take a breath! There are many reasons employees leave, including lack of growth, inadequate compensation, poor leadership, unfulfilling work, and unsustainable workloads to name a few.
Let’s explore 12 steps to take when your best employee quits, and how to turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth:
- Press Pause: Take a moment. Thank them for their honesty. Schedule a follow-up meeting.
- Make a List: Understand their role and ongoing projects. Identify immediate reassignment needs.
- Have a Discussion: Talk through your list with the employee. Stay open and avoid guilt-tripping.
- Consider a Counteroffer: Assess if the situation is fixable. But remember, this doesn’t always work.
- Inform Your Team: Break the news thoughtfully. Rumors can harm morale.
- Redistribute Workload: Can your current team absorb the extra work? If not, consider temporary staffing.
- Keep Talking: Maintain a collegial atmosphere during the notice period. Ensure a smooth transition.
- Look to the Future: What skills does your team now need? Consider restructuring for better coverage.
- Celebrate the Departure: If appropriate, acknowledge their contribution and wish them well.
- Conduct an Exit Interview: Gain insights for improvement. Be open to feedback.
- Stay in Touch: Offer to write recommendations. Good relationships can lead to future collaborations.
- Be Open to Rehires: Sometimes, former employees return with new skills and perspectives.
Turning Challenge into Opportunity
Losing a top performer isn’t just a loss; it’s an opportunity to reassess and grow. It’s a chance to bring in fresh talent, perhaps with different skills that can take your team in a new direction. It’s also a moment to reflect on your team’s dynamics and what changes could prevent future resignations.
What To Do Next
The departure of a key employee is tough but manageable. By understanding the reasons behind resignations, handling the immediate aftermath thoughtfully, and using the opportunity to reassess and strengthen your team, you can navigate this challenge successfully.
Need a worker to fill the gap in your team? MGR Workforce is a leading temp staffing agency in North America. We can help you find a replacement worker quickly. Chat with our team today so we can send a worker out to your business right away.