Managing Made Simple

How to respond when an employee says they're thinking of leaving

June 2 · 16 min · Season 1 · Episode 236 · 7.9 MB
0:00-16:21

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When a top performer tells you they may leave in 6–12 months, don’t stop investing—use advance notice as a strategic opportunity. Lia Garvin explains why notice can be a gift, what to say in the moment, and practical steps to protect team performance, plan a smooth transition, and assess retention options. Actionable phrases, timelines, and manager actions you can use immediately to reduce disruption and retain talent.

In this episode you will learn:

  • Why writing someone off the moment they give you advance notice often makes them leave sooner, not later
  • The Sit-Down: what this re-engagement conversation looks like and how to have it
  • How to respond when you suspect the conversation is really about wanting more money or a promotion
  • What team systems need to be in place so no single person's exit ever creates a crisis
  • How to handle a raise or promotion offer that comes with conditions without agreeing to something you'll resent

Resources mentioned:

  • Snippets web app for team visibility: liagarvin.com/snippets
  • Work with Lia: liagarvin.com/contact

Download my FREE guide to making hard conversations with your team easier at liagarvin.com/convo

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Get all the details at: www.liagarvin.com
Contact: liagarvin.com/contact
Email: hello@liagarvin.com

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© 2026 Lia Garvin / Managing Made Simple