Should I put my foot down?
A few weeks back, I quit my job after being transparent with my team. I offered to stay on part-time (4 hours a day) to help with the transition since I’d been managing complex projects solo. I thought it was a fair gesture, but the company shot it down, no interest in consulting or structured support. Fine, I moved on to a new full time role.
But now my old coworkers hit me up every couple of days during my work hours asking where files are, how to fix code I used to manage, or troubleshooting stuff they can’t figure out. At first, I was polite and answered a few questions, thinking it’d be temporary. But it’s become a regular thing, draining my focus when I’m trying to settle into my new job.
But like I offered to help properly and they said no. This isn’t my responsibility anymore. I’m tempted to email my old HR and ask them to tell the team to stop unless they want to arrange formal consulting. Thoughts? Should I charge them for it?
Leaving a job can be a refreshing new start, but sometimes the ties to your old workplace linger unexpectedly, especially when former coworkers continue to seek your help. It’s common for colleagues to reach out for guidance on files, code fixes, or troubleshooting — particularly if you were handling complex projects solo. However, ongoing unsolicited requests can disrupt your work-life balance and focus, especially if you have moved on to a demanding new role. It's important to recognize your limits and establish clear boundaries. Since you initially offered to assist part-time but your previous employer declined, you are within your rights to decline informal favors now. Communicating assertively and professionally is key — consider sending a polite but firm message indicating that you've transitioned fully and that future support should be routed through official consulting channels if needed. You might also request that the HR department reinforce this boundary to the team. Charging for your help is definitely reasonable if further assistance is sought, especially if it involves significant time and expertise. This formalizes your role and preserves your time for your current commitments. Transparency about this from the outset helps set expectations and prevents misunderstandings. Remember that protecting your new job and well-being should be your priority. It’s okay to put your foot down when repeated requests interfere with your focus or personal time. By setting these boundaries early and clearly, you foster healthier professional relationships and avoid burnout. Many professionals face similar challenges, and taking control of this situation reflects maturity and respect for your own career growth. In summary, while it can feel uncomfortable to refuse former colleagues, establishing limits on support after departure helps maintain your productivity and peace of mind. Your experience managing complex projects solo gave your team much value, but now your commitment belongs to your new role. Setting boundaries does not make you difficult—it makes you professional and self-respecting.
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