Don’t look back in anger after walk-out

10:50am Monday 7th July 2008

AFTER MP David Davis' shock resignation, a UK recruitment website has urged employers to watch for signs their staff may be considering "doing a Davis" and throw in the towel.

Mr Davis now joins the league of high-profile walk-outs throughout history, from celebrities to sports personalities, and politicians.

In politics, David Davis resigned in protest over the Commons' decision on the 42-days detention debate and Richard Nixon resigned from his position as US President in 1974 following the Watergate scandal.

Michael Heseltine abruptly ended an interview when questions over the Westland helicopter scandal became too much to handle - he resigned shortly afterwards in equally dramatic fashion.

Sport has had its fair share of walk-outs including when Kevin Keegan shocked fans when he walked out as Newcastle manager in 1997, before staging a dramatic comeback earlier this year.

Footballer Sol Campbell walked off the pitch at half time and later quit Arsenal, while Roy Keane threw in the towel half way through the Republic of Ireland's 2002 World Cup campaign.

Celebrities, too, are renowned for their moments. Noel Gallagher has built a reputation as a serial walker-out, following countless stroppy exits throughout his career.

While the Bee Gees' appearance on Clive Anderson's show became notorious after a bust-up with the presenter.

Joe Slavin, of fish4jobs, said: "In every walk of life there is a temptation to give in to frustration, or make a bold statement in the heat of the moment. But the spin-off from walking out on a job can be even more damaging in the long term, and it is always best to leave on good terms, no matter what the circumstances between you and your employer."

To help, here are some helpful hints:

* Count to ten! Never make a big decision in the heat of the moment

* Talk to a trusted friend or colleague. Many issues take on a new light with a different perspective

* Try reasoning. Have you tried making your point in a controlled and logical way?

* Sleep on it. There is no better way of taking a breather and giving problems time to work through

* Consider the consequences. Do you have a fallback plan? And, should your actions be contested, are you prepared to defend your beliefs or complaints?