Should You Burn That Bridge?
There’s a saying we’ve all heard at least once that's been around since the days of ancient Rome: “Never burn your bridges, you may need to cross them again.”
If it’s true enough to still be relevant since ancient times, why are people now saying it’s okay to burn bridges in the work place?
Our advice? No matter the situation, you should never burn those bridges. Here’s why:
It’s a small world: In the business world, everyone knows everyone. Many companies contact former employers for a reference check before making a hiring decision. There’s also the possibility of an old colleague switching companies – you never know who you might run into down the road.
Maintaining good relationships is always a good practice since it’s impossible to know who will end up where years from now.
Future employment: You may not have gotten the job somewhere, but you never know if someone who worked there as a hiring manager is now working at the new company you’re applying at. Make sure they remember you for all the right reasons, not the wrong ones.
Never say never: Before you say, “I’ll never work here (again),” and leave on bad terms, consider the possibility of what might happen if there's a change in ownership or management, or a new position opens up.
This also includes maintaining good relationships before you’re ever hired on too. Blowing off an interview or “ghosting” the company thinking you’ll “never apply there again” is documented and can hinder your chance at future employment.
No matter the situation, it’s always in your best interest to be as professional as possible. If you can’t make an interview or change your mind about the position, just call the company and let them know.
When leaving your current position, take all the appropriate steps and leave as diplomatically as possible. Even if you’re leaving for your own wellbeing due to factors out of your control, such as escaping a toxic environment, it’s still best to leave on good terms – no matter how much you might want to burn that bridge.
It may not seem like it matters in the heat of the moment, but down the road it might be vital to your career. Will you be able to cross the bridge successfully or will that bridge be gone?