What to Do When a Co-Worker Puts in Two Weeks Notice- The Muse

What to Do When a Co-Worker Puts in Two Weeks Notice- The MuseWhat to Do When a Co-Worker Puts in Two Weeks NoticeFor a variety of reasons, people leave their jobs. This is undoubtedly a big deal in their lives. However a departure doesnt just affect that person, but also those left behind, too. If the person leaving is your friend, you may be really sad. Who will you grab Thai food with on Thursdays? Who will listen to you rant about your worst client and then give you really good advice? (And even if you two never saw eye-to-eye, therbeiell be a vacancy in your department, and thatll affect you, too.)Regardless, theres mora to it than writing well-wishes in a going away card and raising a glass at her farewell happy hour. Here are six smart things you should do when a colleague gives her two weeks notice.1. Check in With Your BossIf someones departure will impact your workload, its good to know how so you can be prepared. For example, if he wont be replaced right away, you may be a sked to take on extra work. Or, if the position is going to be reimagined and split across departments, that could affect your role, too.So, set a meeting and ask your babo what you can expect in the coming weeks (or months). Then ask to hash out a game plan together, so you can both be on the same page during the transition period. Of course, your manager will appreciate it a lot more if you frame this as a desire to be supportive while things are in flux, rather than a need to know exactly how many nights you may be asked to work a little later.2. Learn His SkillsIs your colleague leaving a role youve been eyeing? If so, ask him to impart some of that coveted knowledge before he goes. Again, sell it to your manager as a desire to help keep bases covered. (Bonus If the companys waiting to sto off the hiring process, youll be a very attractive candidate for the role when it opens up.)And if your co-workers already training a replacement? Ask if you can sit in on the sessions. Hey, y oull still be building out your skill set- for free.3. Ask for NotesFrom a top clients favorite wine choice to hacks for your companys most complicated software program, your colleague likely has her own trade secrets. Ask if shell share this info with you before she leaves. Preface any conversation with a compliment, It always impresses me that you consistently convince Company B to renew its contract early- what do you think youre doing differently than the rest of us?While any guides shes written along the way will be useful, odds are your boss already asked her to save those to the shared drive. So, I recommend asking for all the unofficial tips that made her so successful, including anything quirky that she felt silly putting down in writing. For example, Michelle loves her dog more than anyone, so asking how Mr. Kibbles is doing is a surefire way to get on her good side.4. Do Your Own Version of an Exit InterviewOf course, theres some feedback your co-worker would probably rat her share outside the office walls. Invite her to coffee or lunch and ask her impression on the company, why shes leaving, and what advice and guidance she may be able to offer you. Of course, you cant do this with someone youve never said more than Good morning to. But if its a colleague you know, this is the time when shell probably be willing to share her insights.Just remember that you still work at the company. So even if she starts talking about how she secretly always hated another member of your team or how your boss voice is so annoying, dont join in. Redirect by telling her youd love to hear what strategies she used to be successful in her position and what (positive) advice shed give to someone starting on the team tomorrow. 5. ConnectNowadays, one of the best way to keep tabs on a former colleague is LinkedIn. So, send a connection request before he get distracts with his new gig.If you worked together closely, be sure to ask for a LinkedIn recommendation as well. (Bonus points for good LinkedIn etiquette if you offer to write one for him, too.) Unlike his first few months at his new position, he probably does have the time now to complete requests like this.Related Your 5-Minute Guide to Writing an Amazing LinkedIn RecommendationDepending on how close you are, its probably also a good idea to swap personal email addresses or follow each other on social media. While LinkedIns the professional way to keep in touch, you may find email, tweeting articles and back forth, and even Instagram tagging to be a more natural, less buttoned-up way to say hi throughout the coming years. 6. Show Your AppreciationDont overlook saying a heartfelt goodbye. If you enjoyed working with someone- if he inspired you or taught you something- let him know. Showing appreciation does wonders for work relationships. Even though you wont be working together, your paths may cross again someday- and if youre in the same city and professional association- that day could be, like , tomorrow. Ending on a positive note, and then not letting the connection grow entirely cold, could make a big difference when it comes time for you to look for a new role.Even though a colleagues departure can be sad (or stressful), if you follow these six steps youll be able to make the most of this situation. Photo of work conversation courtesy of Shutterstock.