What’s the best way to quit a job? When you resign from your job, it’s important to resign as gracefully and professionally as possible. Turning in your resignation isn’t always easy. Even if you hate your job, hate your boss and can’t wait to start a new job; it can be difficult to resign tactfully. It’s even harder if you love your job, but have decided it’s time for a change. Here’s how to resign with class and remain on great terms with your coworkers regardless of the circumstances.
An adequate notice period
First’s things first, ALWAYS tell your boss before you tell anyone else! Try to avoid gossip getting to your boss before you formally set things straight. Although one month is the standard (unless your contract says otherwise), it’s a decent gesture to give more time if you know the exact date you’ll be leaving, further in advance. Most of the time, your boss will be appreciative that you’re leaving plenty of time to wrap up your projects and commitments.
Connect with your team
If you’ve been at this job for sometime now, you’ve probably connected with people on your team on an emotional level. They’ll probably be mad at you, because they’ll miss having you around. Sometimes our co-workers become family too. It would be very nice of you, to send a farewell email to them, letting them know where you’ll be moving on to and that you’ll always stay in contact. You have to make sure they understand that you’re not severing ties.
Proper handover
No matter what projects you happen to be working on, make sure you complete them. Even if finishing whatever is currently on your plate requires more hours than you would like to spend on your current job. It’s your responsibility to not leave any loose ends. Not only for the sake of the person who will be replacing you, but because it’s important to your professional reputation to leave a job on a high and positive note. Nothing shows gratitude and accountability like a job that’s done well and finished.
Offer to Train Your Replacement
There’s nothing a boss hates more than going through the hiring process, in addition to having to train that new employee. To be very honest, your boss probably doesn’t know your position as well as you do. So, if you can help with this part of your exit, then you’re winning points all around. Offer to help your boss screen resumes, sit in on interviews, work with the new employee, or create a training manual for your job. It will go a long way to leaving them with a good impression once you’re gone.
