Quitting Your Job in a Professional Manner

Quitting Isn’t Easy, No Matter What Prompted Your Decision

How to quit your job? At some point in our professional journeys, most of us will wrestle with the decision to whether to part ways with our current employer. And often, it becomes inevitable. This departure can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from auspicious events like a new job opportunity or life changes such as getting married and moving to another country, to less favorable circumstances such as an unsatisfactory work environment, stagnant growth prospects, or a feeling of burn out. Regardless of the impetus behind the decision, bidding farewell to a job is never devoid of its challenges.

Navigating the complexities of resigning demands a delicate balance between personal integrity and professional courtesy. Even amid frustrations or disappointment that may have precipitated the choice to leave, maintaining a sense of professionalism and refraining from burning bridges is definitely the best approach. Regardless of the

the underlying reasons prompting your decision, the following guidelines can help ensure a transition that is both effective and dignified.

 Reflect on Your Decision

Taking the time to reflect on your decision to resign enables you to consider the broader implications of your choice. Begin by examining your long-term career goals and aspirations. Ask yourself whether your current job is helping you progress toward those goals or if it’s hindering your professional growth. Consider aspects such as skill development, career advancement opportunities, and alignment with your desired career path. If you find that your current role is not conducive to achieving your long-term objectives, it may be a sign that resigning is the right decision. Beyond career aspirations, consider how your job aligns with your personal values and principles. Assess factors such as work-life balance, company values, and the impact of your work on society. If you’d like help in considering how well your current situation fits, try our free Current Fit Assessment.

Additionally, reflect on the potential consequences of resigning, both positive and negative. Consider how leaving your current job may affect your financial stability, professional network, and future opportunities. Evaluate whether the benefits of resigning outweigh the challenges and whether you have a plan in place to mitigate any potential risks or uncertainties.

Secure a New Job, If Possible

Having a firm job offer in hand before resigning from your current position is crucial for a smooth transition financial security. Not only does it provide stability by guaranteeing another source of income, it also gives you negotiating power when discussing terms with your new employer, such as salary and benefits, and it demonstrates professionalism and forethought in your career decisions, which can be essential for maintaining your reputation in the industry.

While it’s generally advisable to have a firm written offer before resigning, there are instances where this may not be feasible. In such cases, it’s essential to weigh the risks and benefits carefully and consider alternative strategies, such as freelance work or temporary employment, to bridge the gap between jobs.

Review Your Current Employers Policies

Familiarizing yourself with your employment contract (if you have one) is essential before resigning from your current job, as it provides clarity on various aspects that may impact your departure. Note that these conditions may be attached to deferred compensation agreements. Reviewing clauses related to notice periods, non-compete agreements, exit procedures, and potential loss of unvested compensation can help you navigate the resignation process smoothly and avoid any potential pitfalls. Understanding your notice period, for instance, ensures that you comply with contractual obligations by providing the required advance notice to your employer, thereby maintaining professionalism and avoiding any legal repercussions. Similarly, being aware of any non-compete agreements (which, at time of writing, are on the verge of being made illegal in the US) can help you assess any restrictions on future employment opportunities within the same industry or geographical area, allowing you to make informed decisions about your career path.

Familiarizing yourself with exit procedures outlined in the contract also enables you to follow the company’s protocols regarding the return of company property, handover of responsibilities, and any other administrative tasks. 

Notify Your Supervisor

How you handle this conversation with your manager or supervisor can have a significant impact on your professional relationships and reputation. It’s important to approach this discussion with clarity, professionalism, and respect.

• Schedule a private in-person meeting to discuss your resignation. This allows for a focused and confidential conversation where you can explain your decision without distractions.
• Be direct and concise about your intention to resign. Clearly state your intended last day of work (in accordance with your company’s notice period policy), expressing gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you’ve had during your time with the company, regardless of any challenges you may have faced. (Note that your employer may choose not to have you work during your notice period, and in some circumstances, is not obligated to pay you for that period if they terminate your employment earlier.)
• Provide a brief explanation for your decision to resign, focusing on positive reasons such as career growth opportunities, rather than dwelling on any negative aspects of the job or workplace.
• During the conversation, remain professional and avoid placing blame or criticizing the company or your colleagues. Instead, focus on expressing appreciation for the support and mentorship you’ve received.
• Be prepared to discuss transition plans and offer assistance in ensuring a smooth handover of your responsibilities. This demonstrates your commitment to supporting the team and leaving on good terms.

Submit a Formal Resignation Letter

Submitting a formal resignation letter is a standard practice when resigning from a job, and it serves as an official record of your decision to leave the company, so your company is likely to require it. Here are some key points to include in your resignation letter: 

• Header: Start with your name, position, contact information, and the date.
• Recipient Information: Address the letter to your supervisor or manager, and include their name, title, and the company’s address.
• Statement of Resignation: Begin the letter with a clear statement of your intention to resign from your position. For example, “I am writing to formally resign from my position as [your position] at [Company Name], effective [last working day].”
• Reason for Resignation: While not always necessary, you may choose to briefly mention your reason for resigning. Keep this part concise and diplomatic, focusing on positive reasons.
• Expression of Gratitude: Express appreciation for the opportunities and experiences you’ve had during your time with the company.
• Offer of Assistance: Reiterate your commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and offer to assist with the handover process.
• Copy to Human Resources: Consider providing a copy of the resignation letter to the Human Resources department for their records.

Prepare for the Transition

By proactively preparing for the transition, you can facilitate a seamless handover and leave on a positive note as you move forward in your career.

• Begin by compiling and organizing any relevant documents and files, ensuring that your successor will have access to all necessary information.
• Offer to train your replacement or provide guidance to a colleague who will be taking over your duties, sharing insights and best practices to help them succeed.
• Inform key stakeholders and team members about your departure, introducing them to your successor and reassuring them that the transition will be handled smoothly.
• Prioritize your remaining tasks and projects, working towards completing them before your departure, and communicate any outstanding tasks or deadlines to your supervisor and team members.
• Schedule meetings to discuss the status of ongoing projects and finalize transition plans, addressing any questions or concerns.
• Take care of administrative tasks related to your departure and bid farewell to your colleagues, expressing appreciation for their support and collaboration.

Tie Up Loose Ends

Begin by identifying any outstanding tasks or projects and prioritizing them based on urgency and importance. Work diligently to complete these tasks or, if necessary, delegate them to a colleague with clear instructions and guidance.

Then, gather any company property in your possession, including equipment, keys, access cards, and documents, and return them to the appropriate department or individual. Ensure that all items are accounted for and properly documented to avoid any misunderstandings or disputes later on.

Addressing administrative matters also involves reviewing your employment contract and company policies to understand the process for final pay, benefits, and other entitlements upon resignation. Coordinate with the Human Resources department or relevant personnel to ensure that your final paycheck, accrued vacation days, and any other benefits are calculated and processed accurately and in a timely manner.

Consider Having an Exit Interview

Because exit interviews are standards only in some companies, consider asking for one, depending on your circumstances and reasons for quitting.

An exit interview is a valuable opportunity to receive feedback that can be helpful for your personal growth and development, as it allows you to identify patterns, strengths, and areas for improvement in your professional journey. Additionally, participating in an exit interview can offer closure and a sense of empowerment as you transition to a new chapter in your career.

An exit interview allows you to express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had and offer well-wishes for the company’s future success as well.

Be Prepared for Negative Reactions

It’s natural for some individuals to react with surprise, disappointment, or even frustration when a valued team member decides to leave. However, by anticipating these potential reactions, you can approach the situation with empathy and understanding.

Remain calm and composed when delivering the news of your resignation, even if you’re met with unexpected reactions. Express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had and reassure your colleagues that your decision is based on personal or professional reasons rather than any dissatisfaction with the company or team.

Listen actively to any concerns or questions raised by your colleagues, and respond with honesty and transparency. Be prepared to address any misunderstandings or provide clarification about your decision, while also respecting the privacy of any sensitive information.

Stay Connected

Maintaining positive relationships with former colleagues and supervisors is not only courteous but also beneficial for your professional network and future opportunities. After leaving your job, make an effort to stay connected with them through platforms like LinkedIn or occasional emails to congratulate them on their achievements or share relevant industry news.

Consider attending company events or networking gatherings where you may have the chance to reconnect with former coworkers. When interacting with them, be genuine, respectful, and supportive, showing interest in their endeavors and offering assistance if needed. Remember that you never know when your paths may cross again, whether it’s through a job opportunity, collaboration on a project, or a professional recommendation.

By maintaining positive relationships with former colleagues and supervisors, you can strengthen your professional network, foster goodwill, and leave a lasting impression of professionalism and integrity.

Conclusion: Do Things Yourself and In Person

Quitting is a gateway to new opportunities; a chance to step into a fresh chapter of your career journey. However, while quitting signifies change and growth, it’s also a process that demands careful navigation, as the manner in which one approaches this transition is crucial. Ideally you want to leave your current firm in a way that keeps the door open for you to return, should that be of mutual interest. Even if you say, “I’m never going back there”, it does happen, and it’s best to leave that door open if possible.

Throughout the process, maintain direct, personal communication. Handling resignations in person rather than through email or other impersonal means demonstrates respect and professionalism. Informing supervisors and colleagues face-to-face fosters transparency and allows for open dialogue, minimizing misunderstandings and ensuring a smoother transition for all parties involved. Amidst the emotions and logistics of quitting, professionalism should remain at the forefront. This entails fulfilling job responsibilities diligently until the last day, offering assistance with the transition, and refraining from speaking negatively about your firm, manager, or colleagues.

As challenging as quitting can be, by adhering to the principles covered above, you can navigate the quitting process with grace and integrity.