Quitting a job can be life changing. You probably spent 40 hours a week at the office, had coworkers that became friends, and relied on the job for your cash flow.

As a specialized Quality and Regulatory Recruiter for over 20 years, I see people leave jobs for many reasons. The following situations are most common;

• Higher Pay
• Career Advancement
• Escaping a Negative Work Environment
• More Interesting Work
• Lack of Recognition or Accomplishments
• Better Alignment Between Personal Values and Organizational Priorities

 

If you are seeking a new job, it is important to follow professional procedures. You will have a better chance of receiving a positive referral.

Provide at Least Two Weeks of Notice

Always provide at least two weeks of notice when quitting your job. Your company needs time to prepare for your departure. They will need to disperse your responsibilities among other coworkers, and start the hiring process or promote an employee into your position.

Make up your mind first

Before you submit your resignation, you must be clearly committed to leaving. Have you already pursued all avenues for advancement within your firm? If so and you didn’t get the response you hoped for, it’s time to leave. Since you may be immediately walked out of the building upon giving notice, make sure you have cleared all personal files from your computer and desk.

Notify Your Boss in Person

Notify your boss first, in-person. I have seen many employees make the mistake of sending a resignation email. An email is unprofessional and you will still have to face your boss at some point before you leave.

First schedule a time to speak with your boss privately. Simply state that “I’ve so enjoyed working with you here, but another opportunity has presented itself and I’ve made a decision to move on.” Your boss might propose a counter offer. Be prepared with whether you would accept the conditions and your bottom line.

Give Your Notice in Writing

In business, it’s important to get everything down in paper, including your resignation. Provide your boss with a resignation letter when you meet. The following is an example of a resignation letter.

Resignation Letter Example

Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email

Date

Name
Title
Organization
Address
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
I want to thank you for all you have done for me here at (company). It’s been a pleasure working with you and representing the company as your (job title).

I have accepted an offer with another firm and have decided to tender my resignation as of today, with my last day being (date). This decision has nothing to do with the exceptional opportunity you have provided for me here. You and the company have been more than fair with me, and I genuinely appreciate all of your support.

I wish (company) continued success, and I want to thank you for allowing me to be a part of your team. I hope you will respect my decision. Please feel free to let me know how I can help to make this a smooth transition.”

Sincerely,
Your Signature (hard copy letter)
Your Typed Name

Be Prepared to Explain Why You Are Leaving

Your boss will probably have questions of why you are leaving. Your answers can provide a perspective of where the company needs to improve.

Common Questions During an Exit Interview

• Why are you leaving your current position?
• Do you think you were adequately equipped to do your job well?
• What was the biggest factor that led you to accept this new job?
• What did you like most about your job?
• What did you like least about your job?

 

Return Company Property

Don’t forget to give back keys, ID badges, computers, documents, and any other company property. Your company does not want to chase you down. Everything should be handed over on your last day of employment.

Quitting your job can be scary but it opens the door to a new opportunity. Email me your resume at jking@rqfocus.com to get started in a new career.