Copy of How to Professionally Quit Your Job

Seems like everybody’s doing it – ‘quick quitting’. ?And bottom line - you can’t take it any more - why shouldn’t you quit too? You’re -

• Dissatisfied with your current role; it’s leading nowhere.
• Want career advancement so much it’s stressing you out.
• Working with a pain in the butt toxic or unsupportive boss.
• Can no longer deal with co-workers who’ve become like?problematic children.
• Any of a variety of personal reasons.

While “The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence' quote suggests people often perceive others' situations as superior to their own (so quitting and changing jobs seems the way to go) - this phrase also serves as a cautionary reminder that, in truth, the grass is just as green on one's own side. It’s simply we perceive the situations of others as better than one’s own.

Furthermore - friends and old co-workers may repeatedly be posting on social sites, seeming wildly happy about their ‘quit’. Yet -

# A recent poll by Monster.com found “among those who had left their jobs, 72% regretted it”.

# According to a survey by The Muse.com “72% of people were also disappointed in the reality of their new job or company compared to what they'd been expecting based on the recruiting process”. ?

# 60% said they were so depressed (unhappy) they thought about trying to return to their old job.

A Cornell University report, regarding social identity and organizational identity, tells us the following:

Employment offers more than mere financial compensation. It grants us acknowledgment, social standing, a sense of belonging, self-worth, and validation of our identity.

Other studies indicate a robust work identity, defined as the significance of your job to your sense of self, correlates with overall well-being. For the 60%, mentioned above, who felt so depressed they thought about returning to their old job, losing this stabilizing force or source of validation has unsettled them; they feel lost without the cocoon of their previous job – regardless how bad it seemed. In severe instances, this can lead you not only to question your worth but also to feel undeserving or even insignificant.

Have a Plan Before Quitting:

Quitting your job is a significant decision which requires careful consideration and planning. Yet many forgo this and instead ‘jump ship’ taking nothing into consideration. That said, it’s essential to have a plan before taking such a momentous step – for example reviewing your financial situation, the timeline for leaving, what you'll do next jobwise. In short, having a clear plan will give you confidence and help ease the transition – unless, of course, you intend to make a splash quitting – live – on Instagram. And while you may feel that’s your best option, it’s ill-advised.

Here are 9 Tips for Quitting:

1) Do your due diligence and determine what type of company you are about to interview with. For example – are they toxic, are employees quitting and leaving on a regular basis; does the company have unique legal issues? ?Whether you realize it or not, any of these situations can affect you.

2) If you're quitting to pursue another job opportunity, make sure you have a firm offer in hand before resigning your current position. While this seems sensible, many quit cold turkey with nothing to move on to. Yet, having a new job ensures a smoother transition and reduces the risk of being unemployed for an extended period. Plus ensures you are still financially settled.

3) Write up a formal letter of resignation. When resigning, it's customary to provide your employer with a formal resignation letter and give the appropriate amount of notice as per your employment contract or company policy. Typically, two weeks' notice is standard, but you may need to provide more time depending on your role and industry. If possible, make an appointment with your supervisor to discuss this and personally hand them the dated and signed resignation letter. Like it or not, it's best to express your gratitude for your boss and employer.

4) Have you been offered another position with your current company? Beware of empty promises, promotions and counteroffers your current company may offer when you are about to resign. By now, you know the company well enough to realize whether what they’re promising is so or just hot air.? That said, your original reasons for leaving will still apply. Thank them and be ready to move on.

5) Access your benefits – if any are available. It’s easier to do so when you’re still employed there. ?For example – insurance, vacation time due, 401K info.

6) Be aware of how you speak about your new position and leaving. While it's natural to want to share your decision with coworkers, be mindful of how you communicate your resignation. Steer clear of speaking negatively about your boss, current company and co-workers. Avoid spreading gossip or negativity, as this can reflect poorly on you and harm your professional reputation.

7) Ask for references. Recommendations from your old workplace matter. It's best to get these before you leave a company. Plus, if the situation at the new job doesn’t work out, as expected, you have your references.

8) Before leaving your current job, ensure you tie up any loose ends and complete any outstanding tasks or projects to the best of your ability. Create documentation or hand over notes to help your successor or colleagues who may be taking over your responsibilities. Clean out your desk and box up your personal items.

9. Maintain positive relationships. Even if you're leaving on less-than-ideal terms, it's crucial to maintain positive relationships with your coworkers and managers. The time may come when you cross paths, again, and maintaining a professional demeanor can benefit you.

Note: You can also send thank you messages to coworkers you worked closely with - especially if you worked on major projects together.

Regardless how miserable you are, taking time to evaluate the situation to get ‘more clear’ - regarding your motivations - is usually your best bet. Making decisions, when your emotions are high, can cloud your judgment and lead you to make decisions you may later regret.

When you're upset, you are more likely to focus on short-term relief rather than long-term consequences. Additionally, quitting impulsively can have negative effects on relationships, careers, personal growth – perhaps even your reputation. Taking the time to cool off and consider your options allows you to make more informed decisions and avoid potential regrets in the future.

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