Top Tips for Smooth Transitions

Transitions can be a little daunting whether you are the transitioner or the transitionee...whether the transition is temporary or permanent.  Transitions can happen when you are leaving a job, going on maternity leave, or just changing responsibilities.  For the sake of this blog, let's focus on the example of transitioning a project to a coworker.  But, I believe these same high level tips can help with many of life's transitions.

First, organize yourself.  I know, go figure.  But, seriously, don't try to do this off the cuff.  You will likely create more work and frustration for everyone involved.  Take a good look at the project directories and files and make sure that they make sense.  I realize not everyone sorts their sock drawer the same way, but if you are going to have to 'over explain' it to your successor, then you probably need to do a little work. 

Once you are in good shape and ready, setup a call or meeting to to a 'talk through' of the materials, process, key information, contacts, etc.  Allow time for questions and go with an agenda of key topics in mind.  It might even be helpful to get a list of questions ahead of time if the person you are transitioning to had enough familiarity to know what to ask prior to the meeting.

Next, if at all possible, have a 'walk through'.  If there is a process and the opportunity presents itself, have them shadow you, or you shadow them in a walk through.  This is the most effective way for everything you said to cement into their mind. 

Lastly, while I have no doubt that your talk through will be riveting and keep their full attention the entire time, they will not remember every word you said.  I know, shocking, since you no doubt remembered every word when it was transitioned to you. :)  Write it down.  Document where the key files are located, who the key contacts are, and an FAQ of things you think they will need to come back and reference.

Then get ready, because if you are transitioning something onto someone's plate, there is little doubt that someone is waiting to transition something onto yours!  Let's hope they prepare as well as you did!