How to Quit Your Job Gracefully
Making the decision to quit a job is almost never easy. Deciding to quit your job is a personal decision often based on your career path and career objectives. However, actually quitting a job is never easy. Follow these 7 steps with help you quit your job with grace:
- Follow protocol
Speak to your manager face-to-face and give two- to three-weeks’ notice. This shows respect is advised unless your employer suggest you leave immediately. Often positions that include personal or confidential information end immediately at the company’s request. This is usually for security reasons only.
- Pack your things during off hours
Come in after hours to pack your desk and box up your personal items. The goal here is to not disrupt your coworkers.
- Be happy but not excessively happy
Keeping others in mind, don’t rub it in people’s faces that you’re leaving. Whether you’re departing for a higher-paying job or an entrepreneurial venture try not to show your glee.
- Continue to work
It is easy to feel like you can slack off once you give your two weeks’ notice. However, continue to attend meetings and maintain. Additionally, focus your work time on tying up loose ends and transitioning responsibilities to colleagues.
- Prepare a transition document
Often managers will request you create a transition document. This document should outline the projects you’ve been working on, key information and important contacts to pass along to your team or the person assuming your duties. This transition document is a great way to transition out of a role without burning bridges.
- Express your gratitude
No matter what the circumstances are of your exit from the company, thank your manager and colleagues for the years of collaboration, hard work, and achievements. Being appreciative when you exit a position will back off in the long run.
- Don’t linger
While it may be awkward to leave, you must stick by your decision to quit. Therefore, say your goodbyes and leave. Your former team needs to get back to work and you need to move on to your next role.
