Leaving Your Job on Good Terms

You found a new job. It’s time to resign your current position. But how do you quit and leave on a positive note at the same time?

Our team of recruiters at DRI can’t say enough about how important it is to leave your current job on good terms.  We suggest that you make plans for a smooth exit and resign as graciously as possible even though you might be thinking “Take this job and shove it”.

Here are 6 great tips on how to resign properly:

1)    Resign with Class. Craft a short, two or three sentence letter that announces your resignation and provides a two week notice. Make sure to mention your gratitude for the position. However, do not use the resignation letter to provide information about your next opportunity.

2)    Resist the Counter-Offer. This is a big one. Chances are good that your current employer will offer you more money to stay. Don’t be tempted to say yes. The same reasons of why you are leaving will still be there, In addition, if it takes a letter of resignation to get you more money, keep moving forward. This isn’t the place for you.

3)    Continue the Pace. Don’t go into the cruise mode once your resignation has been submitted. In fact, do the opposite and put the medal to the pedal! Leave your company and position in the best possible shape. If your boss asks you stay on longer than 2 weeks, see what you can work out. Protect your good reputation.

4)    Pack Your Stuff But Leave Theirs. Don’t leave behind a big mess. Clean out your desk and pack your stuff. However, when doing so, don’t’ be tempted to take anything that belongs to the company. It’s not worth tarnishing your reputation and relationship over swiping a stapler or tape dispenser.

5)    Don’t Trash Talk. If you are disgruntled with your employer, it’s better not to trash them to others. Word gets around much faster these days especially with social media and you want to leave on a positive note. Also, don’t forget you may need a professional reference from them one day.

6)    Exit properly. Don’t make yourself scarce on your last day of work. Instead, go around the office, shake hands, and thank management for the opportunity to work there. If possible, give them a number where you can be reached in case they have any questions. Also, take a moment to thank your co-workers and tell them how nice it was to work alongside them. Don’t burn any bridges and leave with class.

Perhaps you are leaving your current employer now. If so, tell us how you plan to exit by posting below.

2 comments on “Leaving Your Job on Good Terms

  1. Thank you for the good advice Mickie. Thanks also for finding us and reading our blog. We appreciate your feedback. Barb Miller, Co-writer of DRI Blogs