The time is now. This time, you tell yourself, you’re going to do it. Maybe you’ve deliberated over it for months, pacing around your room. Maybe you just read our previous article and decided that it’s the right time. Whatever it may be, you’re finally going to quit your job.
It could feel like a flood of relief when you hand in your resignation, but without a plan in place, you could easily wind up feeling lost and out of control a few weeks later. At all costs, avoid quitting without an offer in hand or a concrete plan. It’s always better to be prepared and explore the job market thoroughly before deciding to move on. Your market value would instantly dip otherwise, and your potential employer would hold some leverage over you – he or she could try to negotiate your salary to your disadvantage.
If you’re confident and ready to turn your papers in, congratulations! It’s a difficult decision to make, and we at Kool Kanya wish you the very best! However, no matter how you feel about your company, it’s important to remember that it is better to avoid burning bridges and take your leave with grace and dignity. Read on to find out how to quit your job the right way.
1. Don’t be afraid
There have been many employees in your company who have quit before, and there will be many more to follow even after you. You don’t have to be afraid of any repercussions because it’s completely normal to look out for your own professional interests.
2. Always give notice
The notice period may vary from company to company but the general precedent is at least two weeks. Even if you dislike your manager, there’s no need to cause them any unwanted stress. This will give them enough time to accommodate your absence and fill up your position.
3. Do it in person
Unless circumstances really demand it, avoid resigning over the phone or via email. Having the conversation in person might be more difficult, but it is also far more mature, professional, and sets the right tone.
4. Let your manager be the first to know
Office gossip can be the absolute worst and having your manager hear about your plans to quit before you tell them can lead to a very awkward encounter. If you are certain that you want to leave your job, refrain from making the information public until you talk to your supervisor, even if you are good friends with your colleagues.
5. Lead the conversation
Your boss might try to guilt you into staying for longer or even give you a counter offer. If your stance on quitting is firm, don’t be swayed into staying. No number of added perks and bonuses can make you happier at a company if you have truly been feeling miserable. However, if you believe that you have the chance of gaining more recognition or exposure then negotiate your current position.
6. Don’t kick down the ladder
No matter how upset you are or how badly they may have treated you, it’s always better to leave your company with mutual respect. Though you’d hate to admit it, you never know when you might need a reference from your boss. So, reserve the sass for a night out with the girls and keep it polite and classy.
7. Leave on a positive note
Just because you’ve submitted your notice does not mean that you’re free to go just yet. Try to make your transition as smooth as possible by relaying information about your projects to your colleagues and documenting all your work in an orderly manner. Offer to help in the recruitment of your replacement as well. Plus, a few words of gratitude never hurt anyone!
Adopting a good attitude towards your departure is the best way to maintain your professional relationships and contacts. You never know when you might bump into them again! Quitting a job isn’t easy, and if you intend to do so, we hope we were of some help!
