Making a graceful exit

**privateeye** · 27 February 2006, 20:09

Originally posted by MovingOn

My contract is finishing in a month and I'm planning to move abroad thereafter. My concern is how to let the client know that I won't be seeking renewal (assuming one will be on offer!), in terms of how and when. I'm also hoping to use them as a future reference.

Add to the mix that I also am hoping to see the contract to the end, telling them too early might mean they show me the door sooner than I expect.

For me this is a tough call and I'd appreciate suggestions!

Simpler than you think, you are not leaving because you don't like them just that you want to try your hand abroad. I would say to them what your plans are and that you thought it would be better to tell them sooner so they can make plans now for any handover as you don't want to see them get into any difficulties. You want to prepare them now rather than leave it too late

**MovingOn** · 27 February 2006, 21:26

Thanks for replying!

Hopefully then my client will take the gesture in good faith and keep me on whilst they seek a replacement (assuming one is needed). When is it best to raise the subject 3 or 4 weeks before end of contract ?

**malvolio** · 27 February 2006, 21:58

A more elegant solution might be for you to find the replacement yourself and get them all lined up and fully briefed, so when you go there is continuity of supply. Don't talk to the client yet, talk to your agent. When you have something to offer, then talk to the client.

**MovingOn** · 28 February 2006, 07:22

Appreciate your advice on finding a replacement, though my client is very particular on hiring so I know this wouldn't work for them - but I will raise the issue with my agent as soon as I've informed the client.

**MarillionFan** · 28 February 2006, 08:11

Normal process on a contract is to wait until they come and talk to you.

**BlasterBates** · 28 February 2006, 08:26

abroad....

b.b.b.but what about the shop.

**Mordac** · 28 February 2006, 10:15

Originally posted by MarillionFan

Normal process on a contract is to wait until they come and talk to you.

Normal process on a contract is to try and last longer than 3 days.

Mind you, if experience is measured by the number of contracts per year, you're probably better qualified than anyone else to advise.

**errorista** · 28 February 2006, 22:04

Im not sure that you should tell the agent anything . . keep it need to know

I would speak with the client as the agent may supply a really cheap replacement, this may not bode well for your future reference.

dont you know anyone good that you can recommend?

also, if you tell the agent that you are off abroad then ill wager it does nothing for the speedy delivery of your last payment

2c

error

Making a graceful exit