Conquer the Two Week Jitters

So you've found a company who believes you will be an integral part of their institution. A company that values your talents and is excited to have you on board. You're psyched to feel important again, but how will you ever get through the last two weeks at the old job? To someone eager to jump right into a new position, two weeks' notice is simply a formality and in some cases, a favor. Check out tips for keeping your head in the game for the longest two weeks ever.

Loyalty

Try to keep in mind that even if your current company doesn't tell you they love you anymore, they've still been a part of your life for a while. They've undoubtedly bought you lunch at one time or another, and they've also probably given you a raise or a bonus. Granted, you've worked for every penny, but it's still important to give a little back. They need every bit of those two weeks to find a replacement, and train them to take your position. It's not an easy task, and you may be recruited to help. Jump right in. After all, you're out of there soon enough.

It's likely that if you've been with a company for any length of time that you've probably made a friend or two. They are likely in the same department, but even if they aren't, it's important to remember who will have to clean up your mess after you leave. Do your best to tie up loose ends before you go as to avoid a chaotic mess for your former employer and co-workers. They will appreciate it.

The big picture

When you decide to leave a company, it's important to think about the big picture. Of course this means maintaining a relationship with your former employer as to not burn any bridges you've built. Staying focused on work until the very end of your very last day shows commitment. Continue working as hard as you would any other day. You never know when you might have to come crawling back, so stay in good graces. Staying committed to the very end will show the company that you are proessional, no matter what.

Lists

Create lists of things to cover with your replacement. Once you feel you have a complete list, run it by your boss for approval and to see if they have anything to add. Make it as complete as possible even if you're limited in time. It's extremely important to cover material as comprehensively as possible before you leave. Also, identify who the correct person would be for your replacement to ask questions on any given task. You won't be there to direct them and it's an impossible expectation for them to remember everything.

Don't be afraid to ask

Though it's a constant struggle between caring about your job and having one foot out the door, don't be afraid to ask what else can be done. In most cases, your company or your department is going to suffer to some extent when you leave. Two weeks is not enough time to effectively train someone to do your job, so make sure you're asking what else can be done. Corresponding with other people within your company or department is a great way to prevent any future issues that may come up once you're gone. If possible, include your replacement in such discussions.

Seeing the light at the end of the tunnel can be quite a distraction, but you will reach the end of the tunnel whether it feels like it or not. You'll often leave your old job wondering what else you could have done to better prepare your replacement. There simply is no easy solution to the two week jitters, but you can definitely show you're company appreciation by staying focused and continuing to do a great job until the last minute of the last day.