Jonathan R. Taylor, specializes in helping people in every stage of their lives to find more meaning and purpose in their work. He believes that to find that purpose and meaning, a person's interests, skills, passions, and goals must integrate seamlessly with their work. To get more great advice, subscribe to Jonathan's newsletter at www.careercalling.com!

The Resignation Meeting During your resignation meeting, you should be prepared for any kind of reaction, ranging from congratulatory handshakes to guilt trips to out-and-out confrontational anger. Your plan is to maintain composure, be courteous and professional at all times. Here are a few points to keep in mind: •Think ahead what you are going to say and stay with it - don't get derailed. Your manager might want more details but at this stage you want to keep it to point. •Focus on positives no matter how satisfying it may seem to "unload." Only discuss positives regarding company, co-workers and job. Resist speaking anything negative - it simply will not do any good and it may come back to haunt you. •Stay on track. If you are given a counter offer, simply say, "I am not here to get a counter offer - I have an opportunity that I can't pass up." •End your meeting on a good note and show that you will be fully cooperative with everyone until your last day and hand over your resignation letter enclosed in an envelope. Leaving On A Positive Note Don't underestimate importance of your performance during your last few weeks. It's tempting to relax and release but this is not a good idea as your professional reputation is at stake. Here are a few points to think about: •Remain focused. Continue to give it your very best effort right up until last minute you're there. •Your co-workers will be curious about why you are leaving. Tell them exactly what you told company. Assume that anything you say will get back, and negative comments you make can be used to make your co-workers look loyal while making you look like a liar. •Ensure that you’ve completed any outstanding tasks and participated in smooth handover of any unfinished work with accompanying documentation. Keep your manager informed that you are actively participating in this process and that you are being as co-operative as possible. •Maintain a positive attitude about company you are leaving and resist gloating about your next job. Your colleagues will remember your professionalism. •Spend some time to speak to all of your colleagues and associates. Thank them for their support and their contribution to your time. Get their contact information because they will be helpful to your future personal and career development. •If you have an exit interview, avoid any negative comments or criticisms. If you did have problems, be objective and brief in your statements and maintain your professionalism and composure.