5. TAKE CARE OF UNFINISHED BUSINESS

After all we just said about what a tightrope act your last two weeks are going to be, you're probably thinking this would be a good time to take advantage of any unused sick days you have left. However, there are certain things you must accomplish before you leave. Most important is that you wrap up any assignments that you presently have. If it's something that can't be completed in your final two weeks, then make sure you have provided sufficient information for whoever comes after you, and detailed instructions for how the new guy should continue.

Another thing you may have to do before you leave is train your replacement. This situation also demands that you be positive and not say anything unnecessary. While you may be leaving a job you couldn't stand, the person replacing you may consider this the job of a lifetime. Let your replacement form his/her own opinions. If a replacement hasn't been found by the time you leave, then be prepared for your soon-to-be-ex-boss to call you for help or information when one is found. Sure, by that point you have no real obligation to help your old company out. But we suggest you do it anyway. Play nice.

Whatever you do, don't blow off your responsibilities and just coast the last two weeks. We know you may be thinking, "What can they do? Fire me?" But it's important to remember that you may end up working with someone from this job at another job someday. Or maybe you'll need a reference from this employer further down the line. So, again, we stress that you suck it up and do what has to be done.