Don't Quit Your Job Without Doing These Things First

Most jobs don't last forever, and the decision to quit your job can be caused by multiple reasons: better job opportunities, moving to a new city or getting a better salary.

But the most important way to quit a job is to leave gracefully. The last thing you want to do is to sabotage your own career.

Here are nine steps to make your exit with courtesy and respect:

1. Give adequate notice

It’s extremely unprofessional to quit your job without warning. Give your boss enough time to make plans and look for a replacement.

A notice period is standard when submitting your resignation. Review your employment contract to make sure you send out your notice period with enough time.

2. Inform your boss before other employees

Your boss or supervisor should be the first person to know that you're quitting. It's also best to wait until you have sent your resignation letter and know your final day before telling other coworkers.

3. Avoid counteroffers

While you hand in your resignation, your boss may try to get you to stay by offering you a promotion, higher pay or better perks. Don't give in to the temptation. 

There are many reasons to say no to a counteroffer, especially if you have good reasons to leave.

If you stay, the issues that led you to find another job will still be there. Also, it’s very unprofessional to accept a new position and then change your mind two weeks before you’re supposed to start.

4. Be helpful during the transition period

Resist the urge to be lazy and  make sure your colleagues have what they need. Complete any unfinished assignments and don't forget to help train your replacement. 

5. Share your contact info with your colleagues

During your final week, do some internal networking. Say goodbye to colleagues, even those with whom you didn’t work closely.

Mention positive things about your experience working with each coworker and share your contact information if you’d like to stay in touch with them. Remember: You never know whose help or recommendation you might need in the future.

6. Don't forget to clean up

Tie up loose ends and finish your projects. Stay focused on the work at hand.

Take home all your personal belongings except what you need through your last day.

On your work computer, collect your contacts and move any personal documents into your pen drive or cloud drive. Don't forget to clear your browser history.

7. Have a full last day

Work the full day and try to be productive. Make time for the final hour to hand off office pass and other equipments.

Email one last goodbye message to colleagues and keep it positive.

It's normal to transition from one job to another and there's nothing better than to leave with your relationships and your reputation intact. You are now ready to start a new job.

Keep it classy, because you never know whether you will cross paths with your employer, boss or colleagues again.

This article is adapted from "How to quit a job professionally – 7 steps to remember" by Robert Half.