It's only days until you leave your current job and move on to greener pastures. What happens during that transition could make or break your career reputation.

"How you handle that transition, that will be your label," says Nicholas Andrew Depew, author of "Character in Transition — A Guide to Not Burning the Bridge."

Will you be the short-timer, letting your work ethic slip? Will you break rules? Will you forget to say thank you to those who meant so much?

There is so much to think about from legal issues to co-worker relationships to finishing that last project.

We offer five tips for leaving a job — so you'll get that glowing reference if you ever need it.

BREAKING THE NEWS

When to tell the boss you are leaving takes strategy. If she is busy and cranky on Mondays, don't tell her then. Find a low-stress time, perhaps after lunch, to break the news.

When you do, be sure to do it in person (never by e-mail), and take along a thoughtful letter of resignation to present.

Be honest about your reasons for leaving but also be tasteful.

And, if possible, give extra notice. If your company requires two weeks, then give a month's notice, Depew says. Offer immediately to help out with the transition in any way you can.

THE TRANSITION

Helping out can mean offering to stay an extra week or two, if your new job allows it.

"Instead of just moving on, as much as you can, you want to take the focus off of yourself and put it on the company," Depew says.

If you want to finish up a project, work tirelessly to do so. If a new person is hired to replace you, coach him or her on the new responsibilities.

If you are in your final days and all caught up, offer to help co-workers with their workloads. Do some filing or answer the phones.

"Humble yourself a little bit," Depew says. "People will remember this, and this will be your legacy."

DON'T BE A SHORT-TIMER

Of course, this is easier said than done. As the days tick away to your final hours with the company, it can be hard to stay focused.

It's tempting to take the easy road. Don't.

Don't let your work ethic falter. Don't take extra-long lunch breaks. Don't clock out early or arrive late.

Don't log on to the Internet for your personal use. And remember that your e-mail still is being tracked.

It's also important to try to keep contacts with your new employer to a minimum while at your old job. Give your new boss a cell phone number and tell him or her the best times to reach you — on your lunch break or before or after hours.

LEGAL ISSUES

There are plenty of these to consider, according to Accountancy Age Jobs.

First, talk to your employer about future references. Find out if the company is willing to confirm your employment, your position and whether the current employer will talk about your job performance.

Be aware of restraint clauses. Did you sign a noncompetition clause, and, if so, are there companies you won't be able to work for?

Know what's in your pension or 401(k) fund before you leave and that it will be appropriately transferred.

Return all property. Don't leave on a bad note because you accidentally kept a company cell phone.

A GRACIOUS GOODBYE

If co-workers insist on a cake ceremony, an after-work dinner or even a roast, accept. It will offend them if you don't. Just remember, it's almost over and be willing to laugh at any jokes or stories they tell about you.

In return, you should recognize others on your way out. Thank the secretary for her hard work. Offer to take the boss to dinner to show your appreciation. Tell co-workers what you will miss most about them.

Offer to keep in touch. You can even let the boss know you are available for phone calls if your replacement has questions.