Quitting Your Job? 3 Ways to Tell Your Boss Gracefully

Quitting Your Job? 3 Ways to Tell Your Boss Gracefully

Learn more

Next page

1. Go directly to your manager

When it comes to delivering the news about quitting your job, don’t let anyone get between you and your manager. You want to have control over that. Letting the information reach them in any other way — through the department grapevine or office gossip, for instance — is unprofessional and, frankly, insulting. If a face-to-face meeting is not 

Next page

1. Go directly to your manager

an option, set up a virtual meeting or call your manager on the phone. Email is a last resort but can be used when circumstances warrant.

Next page

2. Know what to say when you quit your job

Be sure you know exactly what your message is before you approach your boss. Even if you are leaving on good terms, the conversation could be awkward and difficult. You don't want to stumble over your words. At the same time, you want to be firm in your decision and prepared for any potential questions or objections your manager brings up. Are you 

Next page

2. Know what to say when you quit your job

prepared to say no to a counteroffer? What if your manager asks you to reconsider and suggests picking up the conversation in a few days? What if they get emotional?  (It could happen, especially if you're a key member of the team, or you have a close relationship with your boss.)

Next page

2. Know what to say when you quit your job

Keep the meeting professional and, above all, don’t give in to the urge to vent any frustrations. While it may be fun to fantasize about making a dramatic exit, getting creative when quitting your job is not recommended.

Next page

3. Put your resignation in writing

Even after speaking to your boss about leaving, it's wise to put it in writing as well (email is fine, but hard copy is better).  A resignation letter ensures there will be no confusion about the date you gave notice and the timing of your departure. Many companies include a copy of your resignation letter in your HR folder as final documentation.

Next page

3. Put your resignation in writing

Your resignation letter should be brief and include the following information: – The date of the last day you plan to work — The standard for advance notice is no less than two weeks. If you are in a senior position or special circumstances apply, such as a deadline for a major project, you may want to offer to stay longer.

Next page

3. Put your resignation in writing

– A short explanation of why you are resigning — When explaining why you are quitting your job, it’s OK to keep things general and say something like, “I am leaving to accept a position at another company.”  You don't have to go into more detail than you are comfortable with, even if your manager presses you for additional information. If you're leaving a 

Next page

3. Put your resignation in writing

job that doesn’t suit you or because of issues you've had with the firm, keep your explanation vague rather than going negative. It’s acceptable to say you are resigning “for personal reasons.” – A few words of thanks — Even the most trying jobs have their bright spots. While gratitude isn’t mandatory, this is an excellent time to take the 

Next page

3. Put your resignation in writing

high road and extend a thank-you to the organization. You might say, "Thank you for employing me and helping me along my career path."

Next page

Bonus: Go for a strong finish after giving notice

Your final days at the company are no time to tune out. Leave on a high note by sharing information with your colleagues about your projects and clients.  Document any processes you’ve found useful for those who come after you. Knowing what to say when you quit your job and being respectful — even if your work 

Next page

Bonus: Go for a strong finish after giving notice

experience hasn’t been completely positive — allows you to maintain relationships and preserve professional references. A good attitude will help leave the door open to returning to your current employer should an attractive position come up there in the future.

More

Read

10 New Job Fields for Women in 2022

10 Steps to a Resume That Will Get You Hired

10 Important Career Tips for Women

See More

See More

See More