Subject: Transitioning to a New Opportunity
Hi everyone,
I’m currently employed as a retail small business banker at a major bank in the US, where I’ve dedicated 13 years to my role. After realizing that my career growth wasn’t a priority for the institution, I began exploring new opportunities. A smaller bank responded quickly and offered me a position as a Business Banker II, along with a 50% salary increase.
I’m excited to share that I’ve accepted the offer and received clearance for my background check, making it official. Today, I requested a meeting with my manager to submit my two-week notice.
Historically, I’ve seen bankers before me leave for competitors and receive a two-week payout upon handing in their keys immediately. That’s what I was anticipating. However, my manager informed me that they no longer follow that practice, and I will need to serve my two-week notice.
As I prepare to head back to work tomorrow, I’m contemplating whether to reach out to my long-term clients and introduce them to the superior business banking services at my new employer. I’ve consulted with several industry professionals and confirmed that this action isn’t illegal. While it feels somewhat unethical, I’m focused on making this career transition successful.
I’d appreciate any thoughts or insights on this situation. Thanks!
One response
It’s understandable to feel frustrated and undervalued after many years of service, especially when you’ve found an opportunity that aligns better with your career growth. However, when considering contacting your long-term clients to inform them about your new role, there are a few important factors to keep in mind.
Professional Ethics: Maintaining professionalism is crucial, even when you’re leaving a company that hasn’t met your expectations. It may feel tempting to reach out to clients, but doing so could be seen as a breach of trust. Many people in the industry value integrity and professionalism, and how you handle this transition can impact your reputation in the long run.
Non-Solicitation Agreements: Depending on your contract, you might have signed a non-solicitation agreement that prohibits contacting your clients after leaving. Breaching this agreement could lead to legal repercussions and might jeopardize your new role at the smaller bank.
Potential Backlash: There’s always a risk involved in trying to take clients with you. While your intention might be to help them with better services, your current employer could perceive it as sabotaging their business. This could lead to negative consequences for you, both legally and professionally.
Long-term Relationships: Consider how you want to maintain your relationships in the industry. Leaving on good terms can open doors for future opportunities, collaborations, or even returning to your current bank if circumstances change. You never know when you may cross paths with former colleagues or clients again.
Ultimately, while the temptation to reach out to your clients is understandable given your circumstances, weighing the potential risks and ethical implications is essential. It might be more beneficial to focus on excelling in your new role and building relationships with new clients, rather than putting your current reputation at risk. Best of luck in your new position!