With the rise of the gig economy, more people are turning to independent contractor jobs for their flexibility and autonomy in lieu of the typical 9-to-5 with steady pay stubs. Unfortunately for those of us who enjoy or need the consistency that a typical salary position brings, this means that you may end up losing your “work bestie” at some point. But, don’t panic: these tips will help you learn how to navigate your grief and other less-than-fun things that come when your work buddy turns in their notice.
Handling the Work
Nobody wants to lose a work buddy, especially when they are trustworthy and reliable. You don’t get to choose when people leave. However, you can minimize the impact of their departure with these recommendations.
1. Cross-Train Potential Successors
To prepare for a partner’s departure, consider cross-training each other on key tasks and responsibilities. This can help ensure that you’re both familiar with each other’s work and can cover for each other if necessary. Look at other team members and identify potential successors within your organization.
Then, have your work buddy document their work processes and procedures so it is easier for a new partner to step in and take over those responsibilities. Make sure these documents are accessible to anyone who may need them, especially if multiple team members are cross-training.
2. Develop a Transition Plan
Develop a detailed transition plan that outlines crucial responsibilities, timelines, and communication strategies. Make sure to involve your partner in the planning process to ensure that the plan is comprehensive and realistic.
Determine a realistic timeline for the transition process, including any key deadlines or milestones that need to be met. Decide which tasks and responsibilities need to be transferred to you or to a new partner. Make sure to clarify any unclear or overlapping responsibilities. Make sure to communicate the transition plan with any stakeholders who may be affected by the change, such as clients or colleagues.
By planning for succession in advance, you can minimize the impact of your partner’s departure and ensure that your work continues smoothly. A transition plan can help ensure that the work continues smoothly after your partner’s departure. By setting clear expectations and timelines, communicating effectively with stakeholders, and providing support and training, you can help ensure a successful transition.
Maintaining Relationships After Departure
After your partner’s departure, it’s important to maintain a positive relationship with them. Even if they left for one of the best independent contractor jobs and will never work with you again, that doesn’t mean you can’t still be friends outside of the workplace.
To maintain this relationship, you have to be willing to put in the work. Schedule regular check-ins with your former partner to stay in touch and maintain the relationship. Also, invite them to attend networking opportunities with you so you can both stay connected and informed about developments in your field.
Most importantly, continue to offer your support and advice to your former partner, where appropriate, even if you’re no longer working together.
By maintaining positive relationships with your former partners, you can continue to benefit from their insights and expertise, even if you’re no longer working together. Additionally, maintaining these relationships can lead to future opportunities for collaboration or referrals.
Take Care of Yourself
Losing your work buddy can create a lot of stress. Although you may feel obligated to channel that into work and try to take on what your coworker was doing in addition to your own workload, this isn’t the best idea. Instead, you need to take care of yourself during this time of loss.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, maintaining work-life balance, and eating the way you should be. This will help maintain healthy stress levels so you don’t burn out.
Losing your “work bestie” is never fun. However, if you’re willing to hammer out a transition plan, stay in touch with them, and take care of yourself, it can become a growth opportunity for everyone involved.
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