How to Quit a Job Professionally
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Posted by Joni Rose Jan 15, 2008 |
To quit a job and maintain a good reference requires some strategic planning to ensure that it becomes as much of a win-win for all concerned.
Give a Minimum of Two Weeks Notice
It is common courtesy to give at least two weeks notice of your resignation. It allows time to post your job and at least start to interview potential candidates if the company acts quickly. If possible, give more than two week's notice but also balance your needs with the needs of the company you are leaving. If you give much more than three weeks notice, you may find it awkward to carry on business as usual during your notice period. If possible, give more than two weeks notice but take a week of holiday time.
Provide Documentation to Train Your Replacement
Prepare for your departure by creating a binder of helpful documents, reference materials and emails to pass on to your replacement. If possible, create a mini operations manual for your job that outlines important tasks using checklists or flow charts. This will not only make the transition easier for everyone, it will impress your boss – your reference.
Leave Files and Records in Good Shape
Make a point of organizing papers into easy to find files and make sure all records are up-to-date before you leave. Be conscious of the information that is stored in your head or in your email in box that could be useful for your replacement.
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