No matter how much you like your colleagues or the company for which you work, there is always a certain uneasiness about quitting a job. However, resigning from your job does not mean you have to end your relationship with your former boss and colleagues. What’s more, in order to leave a job on a high note, it’s crucial to have an effective exit strategy in place before you hand in your notice. Exiting on bad terms can damage your reputation and jeopardize your next career move.
Learn how you can quit your job on the best terms, in as professional a manner as possible – and without burning bridges.
1. Never Walk Out on a Job Without Proper Notice
Ensure you give at least two-weeks’ notice to your boss – and to no one else. What’s more, if you can stay on a little longer to complete unfinished tasks, it leaves a good impression. Giving your notice on a Friday afternoon works best – everyone has time to absorb and accept the news.
Most companies will be happy to accommodate you if you need a few more days to close the old job before joining. Allow your supervisor to decide how to share the news with other team members.
2. Avoid Bad-Mouthing Your Current Job
Spend your time working until your last day and avoid gossiping with your colleagues. Don’t engage your current – soon-to-be-former colleagues – in deliberations or unnecessary discussions regarding your departure. Avoid making off-color remarks and derogatory comments on social media.
3. Document Your Duties and Responsibilities
It’s unlikely the boss will hire someone new during the notice period. Documenting your day-to-day responsibilities helps your replacement as your boss may not be familiar with everything that you do on a daily basis.
Ensure you document passwords, regular reports, project processes and statuses and client lists and contacts in order to ensure your soon-to-be former company can continue operations in a smooth transition.
4. Quit With Grace and Dignity to Retain Important Relationships
Leaving a job with respect shows appreciation for your former employer’s investment in you in terms of time, training and professional development. Even if you leave the job in a bad situation, keep things positive and low-key rather than creating a scene. Behaving gracefully gets people on your side and preserves relationships. Quitting your job with etiquette and poise not only helps you make a successful transition, it also keeps you open to future opportunities.
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