Should You Tell Colleagues About Your Exit Strategy?

In an earlier post, I told you how I concealed my exit plan from my colleagues. In retrospect, I’m not sure it was the best strategy.

But what about the other end of the spectrum, when your boss tells you he’s dissatisfied and is hoping to move on within a few years?

This happened to a friend of mine recently, and I asked how she felt about it. I suspected she might feel disillusioned, disappointed or nervous, but I was wrong. Instead she said,

“I’m honored that he respects me enough to tell me in advance. It’s helpful for me to know what may happen in the future.”

So when should you tell your colleagues about your exit strategy?

(We’re starting to compile a list…)

• When your departure affects their chances for advancement (this will give them time to build respect with other members of your organization)
• When you absolutely trust them not to talk about it
• When you are hoping to recruit them into your new organization

What do you think? Please share your thoughts and experience!

Or, record your vote on our poll on Facebook.