Transferring to new job location
I need #career advice! Looking to transfer from my current office to another one we have out of state. Not sure how to tell my manager. What are some tips on how to approach this? We’re close so I don’t want to stress her out by having me leave and her having to find my replacement.
4 answers
Gisèle Roy, MBA, BSIT
Gisèle’s Answer
I saw this note and I wanted to give some advice. But seeing Karen's response I see that she said everything I wanted to say. That is great advice and the only thing I want to add is that you have no reason to feel guilty. It's all part of life and if you current manager is the manager and the friend you describe, it will not be an issue and you will be well supported.
Kim’s Answer
C.V.,
If you tell her far enough in advance, you can offer to train your replacement. It's not like you are leaving the company (quitting), just relocating. Is there a good reason for this? If so, you can also explain that. It's never easy to do this sort of thing, but, you are going to need her support to get the transfer, so, you need to approach this as professionally as possible. If you think you will mess it up in a face to face meeting, you could always write a memo. But, I'd try to tell her in person if at all possible. Memos are cold and distant. . .
Dana’s Answer
Relocating to a new office within the same company does not necessarily mean you have to leave the current position. If your leader is happy with your performance and trusts your work ethic, they might be willing to allow you to work remotely from the different office.
Dana recommends the following next steps:
Karen’s Answer
Go into this conversation thinking very positive. You may be pleasantly surprised when your manager responds in a caring way. Begin by emphasizing how much you have learned from her and from your current experience. Emphasize how important it is to your growth and development to challenge yourself to adapt to new environments,
Acknowledge that you realize your change creates additional work for her in finding a replacement but offer to help in whatever way is possible. Ask how you can make the transition easier for her. And let her know that you value your relationship and will continue to be in contact.
Assuming you get at least a somewhat "happy for you" response, send a little thank you note later that day to express your appreciation for her understanding and support.
No matter what reaction you get, know that you can only control yourself and be happy in the career decision you made. With every good wish!