Quitting a Job: Tips to Handle the Situation

Quitting a Job: Tips to Handle the Situation

Quitting a job is not an easy thing to do, especially if you have been in employment for long. Moving to a new job for better prospects or other reasons is not uncommon. However, during this transition phase, you must take care of certain key aspects to ensure that the relationship between you and your employer does not turn sour. You never know when you might need them again. Who better than A. Harrison Barnes of Employment Crossing to help you with effective career advice in this regard?

Previously, employment was considered a sign of security and quitting was considered self destructive. Quitting also indicated that getting along with other people was not one of your strengths. As Employment Crossing CEO A. Harrison Barnes points out, there are thousands of management guides that teach you to stick to the existing job or go for a new job opening in case the need arises. In the present day, the retention policies of various companies are making all efforts to hold their employees back; so when someone quits, you know that the employee is not being fired, but is leaving of his/her own volition.

How should you write your Resignation Letter?

While it is a good idea to inform your boss of your intention personally, a resignation letter needs to be written. There may be problems if your resignation letter is not written in the right manner. Your resignation letter is a legal agreement written to announce your intention to quit the job or employment. This letter is stored in the office for future reference and whether you like it or not, it is an undeniable truth that a corporate lawyer can use it to really mess things up for you.

How do you prepare for the Resignation?

Before you resign, it may augur well to enquire about employee related benefits that your termination may entitle you to by law. Further, evaluate the implications of a resignation; keep your table and desk clear of any questionable material that may be used against you; and tie all the loose ends to the best of your capability. Before embarking on a job search, you should be able to consider your options. This will give you an idea about whether your resignation demands immediate withdrawal.

Once the decision to leave is taken, make sure to leave before things get any worse is what A. Harrison Barnes suggests. Leaving the scenario before you start getting personally affected is something that is a wise decision at any time. Other than identifying your need for a job change, you should also be honest regarding not to get too overwhelmed by emotions.

What if you are fired?

Getting fired is something that can take place to the best of employees. The case may range from a conflict of personalities to there being a lack of opportunities or the required matching between you and your employer or organization. In this context, A. Harrison Barnes cautions not to take matters personally; being fired does not necessarily mean that you have failed. Also, when it comes to the exit interview, watch your step. It is not mandatory to provide the reasons for quitting.

Further, there are a number of online jobs available these days and you need to be on the lookout for prospective job listings for the right kind. In case you resort to venting your anger on the company you are leaving, it would do well to remember that it will follow you always. It is prudent to quit on good terms and let the management know that you had a pleasant time, even if it is not the truth.

Planning the Interim Period

The period between two jobs is one of the most crucial periods of your career. If you decide to help the company tide over the change, it can mean that you need to stick around for a couple of weeks more. In the words of A. Harrison Barnes, as far as possible, ensure that the focus in this period is on the company and not you. This will make the transition a convenient one for you. If the completion of a project is at hand, work tirelessly towards it. When it comes to handing over responsibility to a new person, train and coaches him effectively.

In sum, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind when you plan to quit. A. Harrison Barnes suggests that initiating a job termination with the right steps and measures will help avoid problems in the future, as well as create goodwill in case you ever decide to return to the organization.