7 Steps to quit your job professionally

This article provides seven steps to quit a job professionally, starting with planning an exit strategy, informing the employer in a professional manner, providing proper notice, tying up loose ends, preparing for an exit interview, leaving on a positive note, and maintaining a professional relationship. By following these steps, individuals can resign from their job in a respectful manner, leaving a positive impression on their employer and colleagues.

Steps to quit your job professionally

1. Reflect and Decide: Take time to evaluate your decision to quit and ensure it aligns with your career goals and aspirations.
2. Plan Ahead: Create a detailed exit strategy and timeline to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your employer.
3. Notify Your Supervisor: Schedule a meeting with your supervisor to discuss your resignation in person. Prepare a formal resignation letter as well.
4. Be Honest and Gracious: Share your reasons for leaving professionally and express gratitude for the opportunities and experiences gained.
5. Offer Help During Transition: Offer your assistance in transitioning your responsibilities to a colleague and ensure a seamless handover.
6. Complete Pending Tasks: Prioritize finishing any pending projects or tasks to leave a positive impression and maintain professionalism.
7. Stay Positive and Professional: Maintain a positive attitude during your notice period and avoid negative discussions about the company or colleagues. Keep your focus on a smooth and respectful departure.

Plan your exit strategy

Before quitting, you need to have a clear plan of action. Consider factors such as your notice period, who to inform, and your reason for leaving. It’s crucial to ensure that you have a solid plan in place to avoid any complications during the transition. Also, make sure that you don’t have access to company confidential properties, all the documents need to be handed over. Ideally, make sure that there’s nothing of the company that can hold you accountable.

One of the most common things employers are worried about is their relationship with clients. If you have any, make sure that there’s a handover which is clear along with owners for types of conversations etc.

Inform your employer

Schedule a meeting with your supervisor or HR department to inform them of your resignation. It’s important to be honest and professional when communicating your decision. Express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had, but also be clear about your reasons for leaving. Make sure that this decision to quit is recorded and is acknowledged. The company will arrange for a separate exit interview. You don’t need to worry about that at this stage.

The most important thing for you to do is to ensure that the decision is recorded and acknowledged. Best to keep it in emails so that there’s a proper record.

Provide proper notice – Quit your job

Check your employment contract for your notice period, and ensure that you provide your employer with sufficient time to find a replacement. Some companies have up to 3 months notice period. This is important for you to check while signing the job offer.

However, you can negotiate with the employer for an early exit if you need to. Most companies will want you to take your remaining holidays during this period. So, there maybe an option to get an exit date earlier so that you can start your next role earlier.

Tie up loose ends

Make sure that you complete all outstanding tasks and projects before leaving. You want to leave on a positive note and not leave any loose ends for your employer to tie up after you’re gone.

Prepare for your exit interview

Your employer may request an exit interview, where you’ll be asked about your experience at the company. Be honest but constructive with your feedback, and avoid negativity or blame. The exit interview is not an opportunity to complain, but really an opportunity for you to tell the company what it can do to improve. The most common advice I get to quit professionally is – Don’t burn bridges, you never know when you might for the same company or managers again.

Leave on a positive note – Quit your job

Even if you’re leaving due to a negative experience, it’s important to leave on a positive note. Thank your employer and colleagues for the opportunities and experiences you’ve had, and express your willingness to help with the transition.

Maintain a professional relationship

It’s important to maintain a professional relationship with your former employer and colleagues. You never know when you might need a reference or a connection in the future.

By following these steps, you can quit your job in a way that is professional, respectful, and beneficial to your career. Remember to prioritize your own well-being and growth, but also to be mindful of the impact your departure will have on your colleagues and employer. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a successful job transition that ranks high on Google search results.

References:

HBR on quitting your job