How to Resign From Your Job the Right Way
Most of us will resign from at least one job during our careers. Whether you’ve accepted an offer for a better job, decided to switch to a different industry, or realized you want a change of pace after reevaluating your career during the pandemic, resigning from a job is a normal part of leveling up your career. In fact, in July 2021 alone, a whopping 4 million Americans resigned from their jobs.
There’s not much advice out there about how to resign from a job professionally, so it’s understandable if you’re nervous about resigning, especially if you genuinely like your supervisor and the people you work with. While you know moving on to a new position is the right move for your career, a part of you may be nervous about hurting your boss’s feelings and ruining the professional relationships you’ve built up.
Here are 5 tips to help you quit your job professionally without sacrificing all the great relationships you’ve nurtured at your current job.
1. Start searching for another job
Ideally, you’ll have a new position lined up before you resign from your job. It takes an average of 5 months to land a new position, so start looking as soon as possible if you’re toying with the idea of quitting your current job.
While we recommend already having another job lined up before quitting your current job, there are times when exceptions can be made. If your job is negatively impacting your health and life outside of work or you suspect something illegal or unethical is going on in the workplace, quitting as soon as possible is a good idea.
Before you begin your search for your new job, reach out to your network and let them know you’re looking for a new job. At the same time, actively seek out new people to add to your network who can help you reach the next step of your career.
Instead of applying to every open position you see, take the time to figure out what you’re looking for from your next job. Consider the type of work you’d like to do, the kind of company culture you’re looking for, and whether you’d like to work in an office or remotely.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, update your professional documents. We recommend working with a professional résumé writer who can fully convey your skills, qualifications, and everything else you’d bring to the table in your next position. Plan to spend anywhere from $200 to $1,000 on professionally written career documents. Although the cost may seem steep, working with a professional can shave time off your job search by helping you land more interviews and job offers.
2. Set up a face-to-face meeting with your boss
Once you’ve landed another job offer or decided to re-enter the job market, it’s time to schedule a meeting with your boss.
Check your contract or handbook for your company’s expected resignation period, and set the meeting up within those time constraints. Usually, companies require two weeks’ notice, but some may require a month’s notice or longer.
Once you’ve set up the meeting with your boss, tell them that you’re resigning face-to-face during the meeting. Make sure your boss is the first person you tell about your resignation to avoid them finding out from a coworker that you’re leaving your position.
During the meeting, remember to be as courteous as possible and avoid speaking negatively of your boss, your coworkers, and the company. Be gracious and thank your boss for the experience and opportunities your current job brought to you. Look confident in your decision to resign from your position, and tell your boss you’re willing to finish up ongoing projects and train your replacement during your remaining time at the company.
3. Follow up with a letter
Although you should tell your boss about your resignation during an in-person meeting, it’s always a good idea to write a resignation letter, too.
Be sure to state your last day of work and to take the opportunity to thank your boss for everything in the letter. You can give the letter to your boss during your face-to-face meeting.
4. Stay courteous and professional during your last days
While you may be tempted to slack off since you’ll be leaving your position soon, make sure you stay professional during your last days at the company.
Be kind to your coworkers and your boss, and do the tasks you’re assigned. If you’re wrapping up loose ends and finishing up projects, make sure to finish strong and with an impressive finished product.
If you are asked to help train your replacement, train them to the best of your ability. Answer their questions, offer helpful advice, and refrain from complaining about the position in front of them.
5. Secure recommendations
Ask for recommendations from your coworkers and your boss before you go.
If you already have a job lined up this may not seem necessary, but it’s always good to have a few people from each of your past jobs that you can turn to for recommendations in the future.
After you’ve officially left your position, keep in touch with your former colleagues. Doing so can help you maintain a solid network of professionals who you can reach out to for recommendations and mentorship.
Wrapping Up
With these tips, you’ll be able to confidently resign from your position without damaging your professional relationships. Leaving your position professionally and on a positive note puts you in a great headspace for your next position and can help you feel more confident as you take on your new role.
Want to make sure your professional documents are up to snuff before you start applying for new positions?
Reach out to us!
Our professional, experienced staff can craft résumés, cover letters, and more that highlight your skills, strengths, and qualifications to show hiring managers you’re the perfect person for the position.