You don’t always have to quit your job. There might just be something else you can explore before you drop the bomb on your employers.

If you are sure that leaving is the right choice, quitting your job properly should be your topmost concern. In a nutshell, here’s how to leave your job gracefully

 

1. Be Absolutely Sure

It can be funny why this would make the list, but quitting your job is no joking matter. While we would not advocate for you to stay at a job you have every reason to quit, we want you to make sure you do have every reason to quit it.

Consider the pros and cons of your decision. Outline why you want to quit it, and what you stand to gain by going forward with your decision. If you are fine with the conclusion you have come to, it is time to…

 

2. Draft a Resignation Letter

This is the tricky part, especially if you are leaving because you are unhappy with the way the company has treated you. You will want to quit your job professionally, so you don’t have to mention all (read: any) gory details.

Appreciate all the company has done for you; because, let’s face it, you would have learned a thing or two since joining.

Let them know you wish them the best in the future, and promise to keep all your work in order before the end of your stay.

 

3. Give Notice

No matter what position you hold in the company, it is considered important enough for you to show up every day. Leaving abruptly would thus throw them into a state of confusion that would, inadvertently, leave a bad taste in their mouth whenever they think of you.

On those grounds, it is advisable that you give the company a quit notice. It can vary from two weeks to a month. Do some research (or ask the HR Manager) to get the industry-specific details and act accordingly.

Note that while we are discussing quitting your job properly, you shouldn’t leave room to be exploited. If your employer wants you to stay beyond the grace period you’ve given, you are under no obligation to do so.

 

Read More: 5 signs its time to quit your company

 

4. Speak to your boss

If you are really concerned with quitting your job properly, you should have a sit-down with your boss. Stay professional, as future employers might reach out to your boss for references.

Keep it simple, keep it tight and keep it professional.

 

5. Tell your colleagues

Having your colleagues find out you quit the job after you have left, or from someone else, can be emotionally disturbing for them. Do them the honor of telling them personally about your decision.

If you had a mentor in the company or some associates that really contributed to making your stay warm, a thank-you note does wonders. If there are others who made your stay not so memorable, this is not the time to rebuke them. In fact, if you can’t restrain yourself, it’s better not talking to them at all

 

6. Develop a transition plan

It would not be as easy for the person coming after you to fill your shoes. Even if your company/ boss doesn’t ask you to, make sure you develop a transition plan for them. That way, you don’t leave them in too much of a fix.

 

7. Hand over company property

Anything that belongs to the company, but is in your care, should be returned to the appropriate quarters. These include, but are not limited to, keys, documents, files, computers, software, phones, etc.