Don’t Leave Your Job Until You Do This

Gathering Data

If you’re facing a layoff or transitioning to a new career, it’s tempting to focus solely on what’s next. But before you walk out the door, make sure you take the time to gather essential data from your current job. The details you collect now will help you craft a stronger, results-driven résumé that sets you apart in your job search.

Here’s what you need to capture before you leave:

1. Project Details and Contributions

Think about the key projects you’ve worked on. What were your responsibilities? What role did you play in achieving the final results? Try to quantify your impact wherever possible.

Numbers speak volumes on a résumé, and you’re more likely to recall these details now than months down the road.

2. Performance Reviews and Feedback

Your past performance evaluations often contain valuable language about your strengths, achievements, and areas where you excel. Look for recurring themes in feedback from managers, peers, and clients. Did you consistently exceed expectations in problem-solving, leadership, or customer service? Use this information to highlight your skills on your résumé and LinkedIn profile.

3. Key Metrics and Results

Employers love data-driven results. Before leaving, take note of any performance metrics that showcase your success. Did you increase revenue, reduce costs, streamline processes, or improve customer satisfaction? Specific metrics make your résumé more compelling and credible.

4. Emails and Testimonials

Praise from colleagues, supervisors, or clients can be useful when updating your résumé or LinkedIn recommendations. Save emails or performance notes that highlight your contributions, work ethic, or leadership. These can serve as inspiration for how to frame your accomplishments and may also be helpful in securing future references.

5. Certifications and Training Records

If you’ve completed any professional development, training courses, or earned certifications, be sure to gather documentation. Having these records easily accessible will help you showcase your qualifications when applying for jobs.

6. A Copy of Your Job Description

Your original job description provides a solid foundation for describing your role. However, it likely doesn’t capture everything you’ve done. Compare it to your actual experience and note additional responsibilities you took on, especially if they demonstrate growth or leadership.

Once you leave your job, accessing this information can be difficult, especially if company policies restrict former employees from retrieving documents. By taking the time now to gather data on your achievements, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother transition and a more impactful job search. Don’t wait until you’re updating your résumé—act now to ensure you have the details you need to showcase your experience effectively.