I Quit! How to Say Goodbye Without Losing Your Cool

I’ve given a lot of advice about ways to land a job, nab those hidden connections, and manage your career to the best of your ability. But what happens when you already have a job and want to get out? What happens when you want to say goodbye?

The latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate about 4.4 million total separations in December, including voluntary quits. If you want to be part of that voluntary number, you may have a certain “quit style” in mind. After all, I’m sure you’ve seen people who’ve said sayonara in a blaze of glory.

But in order to maintain a relationship with your current employer, as well as save your own image, you will need to be a little smarter. You need to say goodbye without losing your cool.

Just like a breakup, there are right ways and wrong ways to quit a job and say goodbye. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Be completely honest

If you’re thinking about calling it quits, you should be completely honest with your boss. For example, reaching peak growth or no longer being engaged with your work are both valid reasons for leaving a job. However, posting a YouTube video or publicly shaming your boss is an unprofessional way to leave. By staying transparent, you create a real case for your dismissal and pave the way to a smooth exit.

Try this: Depending on your relationship with your boss, you may be able to tell them before you hand in your two weeks’ notice. This gives the organization enough time to try and remedy the situation and perhaps even find a solution to your workplace problems.

Help your employer transition

No matter how you feel about your employer now, they did give you an opportunity at one point in your career. Pay them back by helping them during your transition phase. While this is entirely reliant on your place in the organization, helping your employer transition a new worker into your position alleviates some of the pressure, especially if the transition period is short.

Try this: If possible, assist with recruiting, interviewing, and the training process. This not only helps your employer, but gives your predecessor a chance to learn the ropes from someone who’s been in the role themselves.

Maintain relations

Maintaining a relationship is probably the hardest part of the resignation process. Feelings are bound to get involved — and your employer may believe you’re doing them a disservice by cutting and running. Don’t sever ties completely, instead, try to maintain relations with your employer. This can help you to secure recommendations, while also providing them the peace of mind that the decision was not personal.

Try this: Ask for a final meeting. While some employers may call this an exit interview, you may have to initiate it yourself. A final meeting can be your last shot at clearing the air, especially if things have been awkward. Remember to state your gratitude and provide your employer with information regarding your next opportunity so they’re in the loop.

Ultimately, you have the power to control your resignation. While you may no longer be happy with your job, saying goodbye without losing your cool will be better for you and your career in the long-run.

What do you think? What are some other ways to quit your job without losing your cool?

Image courtesy of LaurMG; Wikipedia Commons