How to Quit Your Job Gracefully

When its time to quit your job, it is your responsibility to make the process as painless as possible for both your employer and yourself. You should not, however, feel "stuck" in a job simply because you feel your company needs you. If your skills are better showcased elsewhere and you have the drive to go further than your current position would allow then it is certainly time to consider quitting your job.

Instructions

1. Prepare ahead of time. People who get angry and yell a hasty "I quit!" on their way out the door usually regret it later. Evaluate the pros and cons of leaving your current job. Get your resume in order and get ready mentally.

2. Set aside a financial cushion. In the event that you have to leave your current job before you are able to find a new one, you should always have "reserves" in the bank. The possibility exists that finding a new job will prove to be more difficult than you had anticipated. The reserve fund you set aside can help save you if you find yourself suddenly out of options.

3. Apply for new jobs before you leave your old one. If this seems unreasonable to you, stop and think: Do you really want to be hitting the streets with your resume unemployed and scared? No, you don't. It's probably a good idea to ask that your current employer not be contacted concerning your job applications.

4. Give your boss ample notice. Giving notice in writing that you are resigning your current position is a professional and respectful way to quit your job without burning bridges. Make sure to give the current date, the date you intend to officially leave, and enough time in between (two weeks is standard) for your company to find a replacement.

5. Be honest with your boss. Your current boss deserves to know the truth about why you are choosing to leave. Be graceful enough to give him or her an "exit interview". Give the high points of the position that you are leaving, the low points, and what eventually drove you to seek employment elsewhere. If the motivation was money, don't be too surprised if your boss offers to match your new salary in order to keep you.

6. Demonstrate professionalism no matter what. Any number of strange things can occur in the midst of leaving a job. You may find that during your two week "resignation period" other employees treat you badly. You may discover that you are required to train a replacement that will start off at a higher pay scale than you. Your may lose your company parking spot. Whatever the situation, do not get angry. Know that you have a very short period of time in which to remain here. A good reference in the future is worth putting up with some hurt feelings and lost privileges.