Why you should never burn bridges

In an increasingly competitive job market, never has the old adage, "It's not what you know, it's who you know," been more important.

If you've worked in a particular location, industry, or at a company long enough, you'll discover that everybody knows everybody else.  That means you should never burn bridges.

Let's get real here.  Many people lose their jobs for whatever reason, whether it's being fired, laid off, or even a company restructuring.  Still, no matter much it might hurt to be let go, you can't afford to leave the company on bad terms.  

As much as you can't stand your fellow co-workers or boss, telling them to simply "get lost", or "I don't need you", can only hurt your career.  In fact, the so-called "difficult people" we must learn to deal with on the job could hold the key to getting your next job. Also, it doesn't hurt to connect with co-workers that might mentor you, and help shape your career.

So, the bottom line is this:  Whatever happens with your career, always be on good terms with everyone you meet.  And again, never burn bridges.

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