You’ve landed a new career opportunity, and it’s time to let your current company know you are leaving. If you are like most professionals, knowing how to quit your job can feel more challenging than job searching. The logistics, from the best time to break the news to telling your favorite colleague, can really throw people for a loop. So, how do you quit your job the right way?
Whether you are looking for more growth or simply taking advantage of “The Great Resignation” to find something better, the way you resign matters. Here’s how to break the news in the most professional way possible:
If you want to know how to quit your job, you first need to understand that giving your formal resignation is critical. While job opportunities might feel plentiful in today’s candidate-driven job market, the most unprofessional thing you can do is walk off the job without telling anyone. Not only is this disrespectful to your employer, but it can damage your industry reputation in the long run. Read also: Looking For A Job? Ghosting + Other Unprofessional Mistakes To Avoid
When resigning from your job, it’s important to break the news to your supervisor first. And, when you do, this conversation should happen in person and behind closed doors. Gossip can move quickly throughout the office, and you certainly don’t want your director to find out that you are leaving from anyone other than you
If you aren’t sure how to quit your job, your natural inclination might be to put it off. But, don’t wait until the last possible minute! Common courtesy suggests that you should give at least two weeks’ notice in order to tie up loose ends and help with the transition plan. Depending on your availability and why you are leaving, you may want to extend this. That is, however, entirely up to you!
If you are a highly valued employee, your supervisor might try to do everything in their power to change your mind. This “peace offering” may come in the form of a counter offer for higher compensation, a promotion, or more vacation time. While it may be tempting to accept this offer and stick with what you know, it’s important to consider the reason(s) why you decided to leave in the first place. Chances are, a counter offer will not address your concerns in the long run. [Infographic]: Should You Take A Counter Offer?
Review your employment contract and any documents you signed when you were originally hired. There might be vital information pertaining what you can and cannot do upon leaving the company, so you want to ensure you are honoring that agreement. At the same time, avoid poaching current clients, customers, or former colleagues until you’ve settled into your new role and some time has passed.
You should be just as committed to the company in your final days as you were when you were a new hire. To leave at the top of your game, ensure all your files are in order and you are still producing quality work. The goal is to ensure you are making things as easy for your team and your successor as possible.
If you’re given an exit interview, be sure that you are honest about your experience at the organization. Now that you’re on your way out, remember that you could help improve the experience of the coworkers you’re leaving behind. When speaking about your own experience, try to offer solutions as to how the organization could have kept you more satisfied at work. Just be sure to keep it professional and avoid being dramatic.
Show your appreciation for your experience at the company by thanking your colleagues. This act of gratitude will leave your former supervisor, employees, and coworkers feeling good about their interactions with you—making it easier to tap into this network for future job and networking opportunities.
