How to Support Someone Who Wants to Leave Your Organization

Most of the time, when a team member decides to leave, they don’t tell you. They quietly job hunt, land an offer, and then give their notice—leaving you scrambling to fill the gap. Transition becomes a fire drill. And sometimes, it even leads to hard feelings.

But here’s the thing: they don’t do this to make your life difficult. They do it out of fear—fear of being fired on the spot, fear of burning bridges, fear of the unknown. I’ve even heard a manager say, “Well, if you don’t want to be here, don’t let the door hit you on the way out.”

What a mess.

What if it didn’t have to be that way?

Years ago, I had the incredible privilege of working with Christie Naus, my right-hand Communications Coordinator, for over two and a half years. Early on, I could tell she would eventually outgrow her role at Choose People. So, I made a simple request:

"When you’re ready to transition, let me know—before you start looking for another position."

And she did.

When the time came, she openly shared that she wanted to be part of a larger team, with room to grow and access to full benefits. She hadn’t started looking yet, but she was ready. And because she trusted me with this, I had only one real choice—to help her.

A Transition Without the Chaos

Instead of stress, we had a smooth, collaborative transition. She got the support and encouragement she needed to find her next opportunity. And I got her help in completing key projects and training her replacement.

But here’s the real magic—she found her replacement.

Think about all the time and effort that goes into finding the right hire. Because Christie knew the job inside and out—my management style, our culture, and what the role required—she thought about who would be a great fit. And she found a candidate I likely never would have.

A Radical Question for Leaders

What would it look like if your organization genuinely supported someone who wanted to leave?

Would you…
✔️ Connect them with business colleagues or friends?
✔️ Recommend them on LinkedIn or share their resume?
✔️ Be their wingperson at a networking event?
✔️ Help them find a position where they could truly shine?
✔️ Celebrate their departure with well wishes?

Because here’s the truth: when you support people on the way out, you create a culture where they’re even more committed while they’re in.

So, the next time someone on your team starts thinking about leaving, how will you show up?

‍