Some people change jobs like most of us change shirts. You know the guy; he has a different job listed on his resume for every year that he's been out of school. While changing jobs may be more acceptable today than it was 10 years ago, the way you should quit has not changed.
First off, there are plenty of reasons why you might decide to quit your current job. These include:
You found a better job
You can't get along with colleagues or your boss
You need more money
Your job has been changed and you don't like it anymore
You think you're about to be fired, laid-off, downsized, etc.
You don't have many (or any) opportunities for advancement
You want to relocate
You want a career change
You're going back to school full-time
The list goes on and on.
One of the primary reasons that you want to quit in a graceful and professional manner is obvious; you are a professional in everything you do and quitting your job is no different than anything else. You want to do it right.
In addition, you never know who you might end up working with (or for) down the road. As fate would have it, the boss you told to kiss your ass will be the one that accepts a job as your supervisor at your new employer. You will also need references in the future, and quitting with style and grace will help you immeasurably when it comes time for a positive review of your past work.
There are some things you can do that will actually help your reputation when you do decide to quit. Here they are, in no particular order:
Write a very simple resignation letter and hand it to your boss in person. Make sure your boss is the first to know. You don't want him finding out from Neil and Bob at the water cooler.
Give appropriate notice (this will probably be covered in your handbook. If not, a good rule of thumb is two weeks' notice for jobs that are paid by the hour and one month for jobs that are salaried).
Finish all projects that are currently in progress (if possible).
Create a detailed list of any unfinished projects and what needs to be done in order for them to be completed.
Create a detailed list of your business contacts.
Let your contacts know that you're leaving and what your last day will be. Offer to introduce them to your replacement (if you know who it will be).
Update your job description (if necessary).
Offer to help find and train your replacement.
Check your employee handbook and with the human resources office to see if there's any paperwork you need to complete.
Here's what you should avoid doing at all costs...
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Article Suggested By:Rick W., Phoenix, AZ
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