How To Quit The Right Way Employment

Most people have thought about quitting their job at some point or other. Whether it’s because of frustration with your boss, a wish to start a new career or just the daydream of winning the lottery and not having to work ever again. For people actually doing the quitting, however, there is a considerable amount of associated stress.

Normally at Building Better Opportunities, we try to discourage people from leaving their jobs unless necessary. However, there are times when there is absolutely no other choice than to quit. For example, in a best-case scenario, you may have found a better-paying job. Alternatively, you may be left to support your family. Whatever the reason, Building Better Opportunities has put together this article designed to help you. 

Please note that if you’re leaving your job because of stress, anxiety or depression, we have articles designed to help you cope. However, if you do believe that quitting is right for you, read on for our advice. 

Make Sure The Decision To Leave Is Right

Before you do anything else, you need to sit down and consider your options moving forward. Think about why you want to leave your job and (if appropriate) why you might want to stay in your current role.

If you feel your list of reasons to leave is greater than your list of reasons to stay, you should continue the leaving process. If you’re still conflicted, though, you may want to reconsider things. Maybe you’re just looking for more money. Maybe you don’t like the commute and would like to move to hybrid or remote working. Speaking through your options and feelings with a friend or loved one can give you perspective and help you make your mind up.

Find A New Job

Next, you should begin the job search. You don’t want to leave your current position without the lifeline of a new one – doing so risks your income stream, after all. At the same time, already being employed can have a positive impact on your search – as many employers will be reticent to hire someone unemployed as opposed to someone looking for the next step in their career. As a result, we recommend that you find a new job before you leave your job. 

Let Your Boss Know

Your next step is to inform your manager and HR team that you’re leaving the company. Ideally, you’ll be doing this in a quiet environment – a private meeting room is best. It’s a good idea to prepare what you’re going to say in advance, as you may find yourself becoming muddled.

Your manager may ask you questions – some of which you may be uncomfortable discussing. If you feel that the conversation is going off-topic or your manager is becoming confrontational, you should revert to your prepared statements or gracefully end the meeting. Being professional at this point will help you gain a positive reference later on. 

Prepare For a Counter Offer

In certain situations, your current employer may prepare a counteroffer. This is normally a considerable increase in salary or an increase in benefits.

Generally speaking, most recruiters recommend that you don’t accept the counteroffer. The reason for this is that most employees who accept the counteroffer are normally back to searching for a job within six months, and there may be other reasons why you want to leave that aren’t connected to financial recompense. However, you may wish to consider the counteroffer if one is offered and if your reason for leaving is purely financial.

Attend An Exit Interview

Depending on your company’s procedure, you may be asked to attend a short Q&A session about why you’re leaving and your perceptions of your company. Traditionally this comes at the very end of your time with the company.  However, this meeting may be brought forward.

Make sure to be honest about your reasons for leaving and offer constructive feedback to your interviewer. You may still be able to effect positive change within your company even though your foot is halfway out the door.

Work The Notice Period

Finally, all you have to do is work your notice period as outlined in your contract. Traditionally this is 28 days; however, your notice period can be longer if you have seniority in your company. During this period, your main goal will be to pass your work on to your colleagues to ensure a seamless transition period.

Employment Support in Staffordshire

Once you’ve completed this process you have officially left your previous job and are ready to take up your next position. We wish you all the best.

If you need us, though, Building Better Opportunities are here. We offer employment and welfare advice in Staffordshire. Whether you’re looking for help with work placements, housing benefits, career coaching, help to apply for welfare benefits, or developing employability skills, Building Better Opportunities can help you. We offer high-quality face-to-face bespoke advice designed to put you and keep you at work.

For more information about our range of services, please get in touch with us today.