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Transition Tips for Departing Executives

Once you announce your intent to leave, relationships and roles shift immediately. You can help yourself and the organization best if you:

• Provide the board with a clear picture of what must be done during the interim period.
• Shift your priorities to short-term actions that you and the board agree will strengthen the organization before your departure.
• Encourage the board to appoint a transition committee and get ready to recruit.
• Avoid hasty recommendations. Encourage the board to undertake a thorough “getting ready” assessment and let the assessment drive the interim strategy.
• Avoid (in most cases) being actively involved in selecting your successor. Discuss your appropriate role with the board and transition committee.
• Encourage the board to get outside help rather than rely on you, especially if you are a founder.
• Accept that you may have a lot of mixed feelings, and talk about them with a mentor or colleague.
• Celebrate your relationships and accomplishments, say goodbye in ways appropriate for you, and be direct if there are ways you would or wouldn’t like to celebrate your years at the organization.

For more ideas and tips for founders, see the Founding Executives page in the Executive Directors section.

"Provide the board a clear picture of what must be done during the interim period.

 Encourage them to develop a solid plan and to get outside help, especially if you're a founder."

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1/16/03