“I quit! I can’t keep working for an ungrateful boss like you!”. Then you storm out and maybe throw two middle fingers in the air. 

As fun and dramatic as that sounds, it only works in the movie world. 

Yet, leaving a horrible boss or switching to a new career can be seamless. How can you do that? Let’s get straight to it.

7 Ways To Quit Your Job Properly 

  • Choose the right time

Employers understand that at some point, a career change is necessary. They do not expect you to stay forever when that time comes- it saddens them, but they have to let you go.

On your part, select the right time to quit. Ideally, the right time should be when you have accepted the new job offer. This saves you the stress of having unnecessary employment gaps and struggling with finances.

 

  • Give Proper Notice

If you are resigning, the standard notice duration to give your employer is two weeks. 

But, if you signed a contract, ensure you work through the resignation details according to your agreement to prevent a breach. 

Write a standard resignation letter. It should include the reason for the resignation, the date it takes effect, and appreciation for the time spent working with your boss.

 

  • Inform Your Employer Why You Are Leaving 

This is not mandatory, and it can be dicey as well, so the best approach is being intuitive.

If you are leaving because of a career change, you might want to explain this clearly, yet politely to your boss. If you are good at what you do, he might want to convince you to stay. You want to be assertive yet polite.

However, if you are fed up with the work environment or attitude, you must be careful. You don’t want to blame your boss- it might turn into an inferno of emotions. 

Tactfully, explain why you want to leave, do not apportion blame, and don’t be rude.

Think of creating good relationships even when you feel wronged- the business world is small; don’t allow a bad experience to ruin your chances of attaining greater heights. 

 

  • Be Professional

There might be a workload remaining that you need to clear before you leave- finish it before you go. 

Ensure you are not sloppy at work- most people become carefree and lazy, don’t become those people.

Be punctual at work, carry out your duties diligently- you need a good reference, don’t play with the last days you have.

 

  • Sustain Relationships 

A change in career or job doesn’t mean your previous work was nonexistent- don’t burn bridges.

Keep in contact with your close colleagues and boss from your job, as you move to a new one.

It would be best practice if you told your boss first about your resignation. That way, he gets first-hand information from you. 

 

  • Offer Help

If your new job doesn’t resume immediately and you have time. Offer a hand of assistance; perhaps you could train your replacement or make yourself available to fix a few issues while you transition. 

Keep a record of your activities, documents, and files needed by the next person.

 

  • Show Appreciation 

No matter how bad your experience has been, your job might have allowed you to grow professionally, build close work ties, relationships, etc.

So, show gratitude to your colleagues who have helped you grow; your team leads, bosses, and mentors take time to thank them properly. 

Apart from this being the right thing to do, it also helps you build your network. It creates a better opportunity for future development. 

 

Exit your job gracefully, keep the relationship bridge intact. Remember, make new friends and never leave the old.