The art of quitting….
So you’ve interviewed for a role, been offered the job … Time to quit. Handing in your notice can be a very daunting experience however there are often good reasons to move on so don’t feel guilty about putting yourself first and striding out to pastures new. Below are some pointers on the art of quitting…
Do it in person
Whilst it may be tempting to send an email and avoid the awkward conversation this is never a good idea. Always try wherever possible to arrange a meeting with your manager so that you can deliver the news in person. Despite the temptation to tell close colleagues of your decision make sure your manager finds out from you and not from the office chatterbox….
Work your notice
Working your notice period may be uncomfortable but it will allow you to hand over your work to others and leave your company with no loose ends to tie up. Some employers will want you to leave immediately – especially if you are joining a rival, however where gardening leave is not an option make sure you leave on good terms and with an empty in-tray!
Don’t bad mouth your current employer
Quit with good grace. There’s no need to tell everyone the ins and outs of why you are leaving and there’s no reason to burn bridges by bad mouthing your current employer.
Leave a good impression
By working hard during your notice period and ensuring as many loose ends as possible are tied up before you leave you will leave a good impression. Why tarnish your reputation by putting your feet up during your notice period?
Don’t feel guilty
If you have quit your job to move into a new role you will have weighed up the pro’s and cons already. The move is obviously the right thing to do or you wouldn’t be making it. Whilst you may feel loyal to your current employer always remember the key reasons why you are leaving. No-one is truly indispensable, your position can be filled and your old employer will be able to move on. Sometimes people need to be selfish and look out for themselves.
Quitting a job isn’t always a nice experience. After all many people spend more time at work with colleagues than they do with their own family and friends. However sometimes you just need to move on. Remember the above points and hopefully the experience can be less painful.
Rob Atkins is a recruiter who has worked in the recruitment industry for almost 20 years. Rob is Director of Bluefin Recruitment – a leading Engineering Recruitment Consultancy based in Derby.