I think a lot of times it’s not money that’s the primary motivation factor; it’s the passion for your job and the professional and personal satisfaction that you get out of doing what you do that motivates you. –Martin Yan
Moving from one job to another is a natural progression in anyone’s career – so hopefully you’re always moving up, and not sideways or backwards. Whichever direction you find yourself heading in your working life, it’s best to do so gracefully, especially when it comes to quitting your job. No matter how unhappy you may be, hot-headed behavior will only land you in hot water; whether on the spot or further down the line.
The phrase “burning your bridges” has never been more apt than when it relates to your career. Don’t do it. You never know when you might come into contact with a previous employer, or need a positive reference from your old boss.
Here are a few pointers as to how to quit your job gracefully:
1. Be Honest
It might sound like the last thing you want to do, but keep your managers or superiors in the loop with regards to your future plans. Let them know that you’re unhappy for whatever reasons and that you’re considering a move further afield; they might even be able to help you find a job via their network of business contacts. If you’ve already found another position, let your boss know about it in person before you send your letter of resignation to make it official – it’s common courtesy.
2. Give Sufficient Notice
It costs a lot of money to replace a former employee. From time spent sourcing and interviewing new candidates to the potential loss of services that make a company reliant on freelancers or contractors. Do the right thing and give your boss enough notice so that he or she has sufficient time to find your replacement before you leave. You should also leave enough time to train the new employee and do a proper handover.
3. Don’t Slack Off
Once you’ve made the decision to leave and you’ve found another role, don’t use this as an opportunity to slack off and surf your favorite sites. You still have an obligation to fulfill and you’re required perform to a certain standard. Make sure you continue this level of performance right up until the day you leave.
4. Don’t Bad-mouth Your Colleagues
It’s almost certain that negative commentary will find its way back to the person in question. Watch what you say and keep it tidy. The old adage always applies: if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.
5. Be Prepared for the Counter-offer
Something that you may not have taken into consideration is the fact that your company might fight to keep you and a counter-offer may be presented to you in a bid to make you stay. Take the offer and mull it over for a day or two before making a final decision. You can always take the counter-offer to your new company and ask them match it or offer something even better. It’s not meant to be used as leverage, but essentially it is a tool that can be used to your advantage.
6. Ask for a Reference
Don’t leave without asking your manager for a recommendation letter. Even if you don’t need it now, you may need it in the future and your current manager might not be reachable then.
Post updated by Magda Torres