There are many reasons to leave a job. Maybe you got a better offer from another company, need to move out of state, or simply dislike your current employer. Regardless of the reason, you’ve decided quitting is the right move, and now it’s on to the hard part: telling your manager.
No matter what prompted your decision, it’s imperative you handle the situation like a professional. Otherwise, you risk burning bridges and making a poor impression that can follow you throughout your career. To help manage this process with grace, here are some tips to follow.
Identify the Timing
Most employees run on the assumption that two-weeks’ notice is the standard. While it is certainly fine as a default, each company may have policies governing resignations, especially for senior-level positions.
Before formally resigning, check applicable policies to see how much time is appropriate. In some cases, more notice may be requested. However, some businesses also make all resignations immediate and will escort you off the premises once you say you’re quitting. That can be a rude awakening to someone who assumed they would have two more weeks on the job (and pay) only to find out they have to leave right away.
Say It in Person
While most workplaces require a formal letter of resignation, it’s always wise to tell your boss in person. This approach is more respectful and ensures they don’t find out about your intentions from someone else.
The conversation doesn’t have to be in-depth. Instead, keep things positive, professional and concise. Let them know you’re leaving and when your last day will be. Avoid comments that may be seen as rude as this can hurt your reputation and makes it harder to get a positive reference later, should the need arise.
Don’t feel pressured into supplying details you aren’t comfortable giving. The reasoning behind your decision isn’t as relevant as the choice itself, so feel free to keep certain aspects private if you prefer.
Write the Letter
As mentioned above, a formal letter of resignation is often required by human resources. Just as with the conversation with your boss, keeping things simple is often wise. Provide them with your name and current position information, let them know you’re resigning and list your final date of employment. If you wish to add a positive closing sentiment, feel free to do so, but it isn’t a requirement.
Remember that this letter isn’t an appropriate place to vent your frustrations about the position or company. Typically, these pieces of paper (or emails) are maintained long term and can hurt you in the future if not managed properly.
Similarly, don’t include personal details in your resignation letter, especially if it would require sending it out to multiple target recipients. If you want to send thanks to co-workers, managers or others you worked with, do so individually. This approach allows you to give each note a personal touch which is more meaningful.
How to Handle a Counteroffer
In some cases, your company may try to entice you to stay by presenting a counter offer. Often, this involves giving you a raise, providing a promotion or making promises about future benefits. However, most people who accept such offers don’t remain with the organization long term as more money doesn’t always remedy the issue that led you to find a new opportunity in the first place. Plus, it puts you on the chopping block should staff reductions occur in the future. And, if you’re leaving for a new job, it means missing out on everything that business has to offer.
Yes, quitting is hard, but it opens the door to new opportunities. Furthermore, when you resign gracefully, you can maintain your reputation as you leave on your last day.
If you are interested in finding a new position, the team at The Squires Group can help. Contact us today to see what positions may be available in your field.
