Quitting a job professionally is important for maintaining good relationships and a positive reputation in your professional network. Here are some key steps to consider: Doing it the best way helps you set an ethical standard. Below, you will see the steps to achieve a managed exit that demonstrates maturity, responsibility and respect for the company, colleagues and the work you have done .
This attitude helps to preserve the network of contacts, since in the workplace, connections can play a crucial role in future professional opportunities.
How to quit a job professionally
- Prepare in advance.
- Schedule a meeting with your immediate boss.
- Maintain diplomacy.
- Provide reasonable notice.
- Provide a formal resignation letter.
- Offer help during the transition.
- Maintain a positive attitude.
- Say goodbye personally.
- Take care of your social networks.
- Request a reference.
- Prepare in advance
Have you already decided to resign? If you leave your current job considering all the factors in a strategic and conscious decision, then it is time to prepare. Before communicating your decision, make sure you have a clear plan for your exit.
Consider the date of your resignation, the notice period you must provide, and any tasks you must complete before leaving , as this demonstrates your commitment and professionalism.
Please be aware of the company’s policies regarding resignation so that you comply with any specific requirements. I recommend you evaluate your responsibilities and make sure you have a list of your pending tasks.
Now, set a departure date that allows you to complete your responsibilities and at the same time gives the company enough time to find your replacement.
- Schedule a meeting with your immediate boss
I always emphasize this point: don’t resign by email or message; Do not use impersonal channels or channels that lend themselves to misunderstanding. To do this, it is important to schedule a face-to-face meeting with your boss or immediate boss in order to talk about your decision.
This approach shows respect and gives you the opportunity to explain your reasons directly. I recommend that you choose a time when your line manager has time for an uninterrupted conversation.
What has worked for me in this regard is to prepare a script, so I suggest that before the meeting you make an outline of what you plan to say to make sure you clearly communicate your reasons and your gratitude for the opportunity to work at this company.
It is important that you remain receptive to hearing the response because it could make you a counteroffer, which may be worth considering.
- Maintain diplomacy
Now, during the meeting, show clarity about your decision, but avoid going into negative details about the company, your team or your colleagues. I suggest you explain your reasons briefly and positively, focusing on your goals and the next step in your career.
A good tip that has worked for me is to avoid blaming someone for your decision; Instead, explain how your personal and professional goals have evolved.
- Provide reasonable notice
Talking to your immediate boss is not the last step, as you must provide an adequate notice period according to your contract and the standard of your industry or sector , which will allow the company to plan the transition, assign responsibilities and find a replacement, if necessary.
Take a look at your contract to understand how much notice is expected and plan accordingly. Evaluate the situation of the organization and try to be flexible if the context warrants it.
In this part, I think it is appropriate to offer training to your colleagues on the responsibilities you are responsible for to facilitate a smoother transition.
- Provide a formal resignation letter
It is the turn to notify the company management, so you must write a formal resignation letter . Include the date of your last work day and thank the company for the opportunity to work there.
I advise you to keep it short, positive and simple, so avoid going into details. Likewise, it is essential that you follow any specific process from the Human Resources department to formally submit your resignation.
Don’t forget to keep a copy of the letter for your personal records or as backup in the process of your departure at the company.
- Offer help during the transition
For me there is no better way to demonstrate your commitment as a professional than to offer help during the transition process. You can provide a to-do list, document key processes, or train your replacement, if possible.
Here I can suggest that, after your departure, you remain available to answer questions or provide guidance if necessary, for a certain period. For example, let them know that, in the month following your resignation, you will have Mondays and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 pm available to answer specific questions.
- Maintain a positive attitude
During the notice period, maintain a positive and professional attitude; Additionally, continue to fulfill your responsibilities and avoid any negative behavior. Remember that your last impression is as important as your first. Beyond the reasons for quitting your job, it is crucial that you have a good attitude.
It is time to reflect on the positive experiences you have had in the company and how they have contributed to your professional growth. Take the opportunity to celebrate the achievements and successes you have experienced during your time at the organization.
- Say goodbye personally
Before you leave, take the time to personally say goodbye to your colleagues and superiors . Express your gratitude and leave doors open for future professional connections.
More than once I had a colleague who, upon leaving, organized a farewell event and to share an informal moment with his closest colleagues.
The important thing in this step is that you do everything to leave a lasting impression by being friendly and professional.
- Take care of your social networks
Update your LinkedIn profile and other social networks to reflect your new position. Be sure to maintain professional connections and not express negative opinions about your former company on public platforms.
- Request a referral
Finally, if you consider it appropriate, request a reference letter or permission to provide future employers with the contact of your immediate boss or someone in HR. H H. This can be invaluable for your future job opportunities.
Before listing someone as a reference, talk to them about your plans and make sure they’re willing to offer a positive reference.
Remember that employers value integrity and the ability to handle difficult situations, so a well-managed exit reduces the risk of creating conflict and allows you to leave a lasting impression by showing colleagues and superiors that the transition was carried out with professionalism and consideration. .