So you’ve decided to quit your job. No matter what the reasons, it’s important to make your exit smooth for all parties involved. While you may be moving on to bigger and better things, your current employer still has a business to run. You must maintain your professionalism, no matter how much you feel like dropping everything and walking out the door today.
Why It’s Important
A past employer can be an incredibly helpful resource in your career. Whether or not you have a job lined up when you quit, it’s still useful to know that your former boss is willing to give you a good recommendation. Dropping everything and leaving them stranded will not accomplish this, no matter how good of an employee you were up until that point. Remember that the average American changes career three to five times in their life and, on average, people age 18-40 change jobs about ten times [according to a report by the US Dept of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, August 2006]. Chances are, you’ll probably switch jobs again down the road and their reference could help (or hurt) your odds of getting one.
Also, it should be a matter of personal integrity to follow through on the obligations you have dedicated yourself to. Remember that you committed yourself to this company when you were hired. You need to uphold your end of the bargain because you are an ethical professional.
Steps to Take:
Give Appropriate Notice
Be sure to provide your employer with the amount of notice that is considered standard for your position. Typically, this is two weeks. However, many management positions will require (or professionally request) that you provide a month or even two. Be aware of what your employer expects and give them as much time as you possibly can.
Work Hard in Your Last Days
Once you give notice that you are quitting, the people in your office will likely grow a bit distant. Most people belief that someone leaving will stop putting out their full effort. It’s natural to have the desire to not work as hard because your vision becomes very short sighted. You stop feeling that your work will result in reward. However, it’s important to continue working hard (even harder perhaps) in your final days to show that you are committed to fulfilling your obligations.
Make the Transition of Tasks Smooth
If you do certain tasks that no one else knows how to do, offer to train another employee prior to leaving. Otherwise, you will leave your former co-workers in a tight spot after you’re gone. Consider creating a “survival guide” for the person who will be your replacement. Make notes with tips and tricks you have learned along the way. It will be greatly appreciated by the entire office.
Remain Positive
Whether you’re excited about your new job or just happy to be quitting your existing position, keep the focus on positivity. Others in the office will be sad and mad to see you go, but you don’t have to let it get you down. Focus on the future and keep the present pleasant.
For more articles like this, read How to Ask for a Pay Raise , How to Handle Conflict at Work and Professional Goal Setting.
