I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and that your New Year is off to a great start.  

I can graciously report that mine has been going well. I have now been at my new job for almost two months and the transition has been a lot smoother than anticipated, so that is a blessing.  

I say all of this because since beginning my new job, I have been reminded (often it seems) of how important it is to NOT BURN BRIDGES! Working in sales is not for the faint of heart, but it definitely helps when you have past bosses who continue to support you and your career.  

I have worked quite a few jobs (some all at once), but there are a few things I have always practiced when I am moving onto a new opportunity – give notice, open communication, offer assistance during the transition and stay connected. 

Giving at least a two-week notice and being communicative is business etiquette 101. Yes, it may seem scary, but I have never once had a boss be rude or discouraging when I have come to them with news that I am moving onto a bigger opportunity. Almost every time, they expressed gratitude for my contributions to the company and wished me well. Unless there is some kind of animosity, every leader is going to be grateful that you gave them notice and kept an open line of communication.  

Another thing I like to do is keep in touch even after the departure. Whether it is just a quick text or dropping in to say “hello.” 

Doing these small gestures helps in maintaining a positive relationship which inadvertently not only benefits you professionally, but personally, as well. I have a handful of past bosses that I know I could call if I ever needed anything and truly consider them a friend.  

On the professional side of this, it can significantly benefit your future career by allowing you to preserve potential opportunities and access to a network of contacts. The people you meet today could be valuable connections tomorrow whether it is for a reference, a job opportunity, collaborations or just personal support.  

I am abundantly blessed when it comes to this. I have bosses from over a decade back that still support me in all my endeavors. I use the term “boss,” but really, they are great leaders and role models for me. And a great leader will be proud that you are moving onto bigger and better things – trust me. 

Instead of burning bridges, let’s consciously BUILD them instead! Burning bridges may be easier, quicker and it may give you a short-lived endorphin rush after you tell the “man” to “take this job and shove it.” But building bridges is so much better and allows you to expand your influence and leave a lasting legacy.  

Be a builder, not a burner!

(Paige Gurgainers is a mother of three girls, and a digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal.)