How to Quit Your Job Like a Pro

Quitting jobs has always been a part of business and life. Even though the "great resignation" is technically over, quitting is still a significant aspect of the workplace and will continue indefinitely. The challenges in quitting, including the switch to a mostly remote environment during the pandemic, have made it more complicated. One notable change in recent years is that quitting over Zoom or virtually is now more acceptable since it's not an in-person interaction. In fact, millions of Americans have quit jobs without ever meeting their bosses face-to-face. This unfamiliar territory calls for advice on quitting a job with dignity, respecting the organization, setting up coworkers for future success, and leaving with your head held high.

Timing matters.

At Holistic, we have had employees quit via email at 5 PM on Friday three times, which is disrespectful to the organization. Quitting at that time conveys three things: fear of the reaction, a lack of concern about giving your boss a weekend stomachache, and a failure to understand the dynamics of the situation. Instead, choose a time that allows your boss to process the news effectively, such as a Wednesday morning, even if it means giving a longer notice period. This benefits both the organization's future planning and your own peace of mind.

Do it in person-ish.

While face-to-face interaction may not always be possible, it's crucial to have a Zoom conversation with your boss to quit. Quitting a job via email shows cowardice and a lack of trust in your boss's ability to handle the news well. It reveals your true colors and the belief that your boss won't be happy or supportive. When my wife quit her job, she was nervous, but her boss told her that quitting a job reveals a lot about the boss. If they react poorly, it confirms the right decision to leave. If they are supportive, even if disappointed, it signifies a good working environment. Give your employer the benefit of the doubt and the dignity of responding to the news in person.

Have a plan for the organization's success in your absence, focusing on the organization, not yourself.

This is crucial. As you prepare for your last two weeks, consider what's truly important for the long-term success of the organization, rather than personal closure or reputation. Sometimes, employees want to inform clients themselves, but remember that the clients belong to the company. Let the company decide how to convey the news, and be there to support it. Assess your actions and determine if they serve your interests or those of the organization. When I left the mayor's office, I focused on helping to find my replacement, which was more beneficial to the organization than just seeking personal closure.

Seek to minimize collateral damage.

Leaving an organization is inherently traumatic for both parties. The better employee you've been, the harder it is for others. When you leave, you have a choice—make the transition worse or better. Support your coworkers and leave them feeling good about their work and optimistic about the future. Avoid creating a negative atmosphere or making it seem like you escaped a terrible place. Make choices that positively impact your colleagues and the world you leave behind.

Tell the whole truth.

It's alarming how often people quit their jobs without telling the whole story. By withholding information about the new opportunity, individuals try to avoid negative reactions from their bosses. However, the truth will eventually come out. It's better to be upfront about your decision and share the details with your boss. By doing so, you have an opportunity to manage your reputation and prevent rumors or misunderstandings from taking hold.

These five small actions can significantly improve the outcome of quitting a job. You have control over the situation, and there is a right way and a wrong way to handle it. I hope that those who read this article will consider these ideas and recognize the tremendous opportunity they have to quit a job in a productive, supportive, and grateful manner toward the organization that provided them with the job in the first place.