Do: Give at Least Two Weeks Notice
The workplace might be a dizzily changing place, but some things never change. For example, two weeks notice is still the gold standard when it comes to leaving a job. Your chances of getting a good recommendation are significantly reduced if you don’t give proper notice. More than that, you can kiss goodbye the idea of ever working for that company ever again.
Your employer will need time to hire a replacement, to delegate your work, and to get a new employee up to speed. They might even have you help out with training. Staying in your boss’ good graces is always a good idea. This is the best way to do that on the way out.
Don’t: Phone It In For the Last Two Weeks
It’s entirely possible that your workload might taper off during the last couple of weeks you’re on the job. That’s understandable if it’s a result of closing down projects and putting the finishing touches on your work. You should not, however, get a case of “senioritis,” phoning it in for the last couple of weeks on the job.
This isn’t much different than just not showing up for your last two weeks. Your boss and your team need you to be on point while you walk out the door. Keep giving 110 percent and you’ll have a solid reference you can use anywhere.