Preparing to Leave a Job

When you prepare to leave a job, you will most likely be full of anxiety about telling your boss. Whether you like or dislike your boss, telling someone you are about to leave the company can be a stressful conversation.

Whether you have had a terrific working relationship with your manager or think s/he is the biggest moron on the planet, you owe it to your supervisor and the company to be honest and upfront about your resignation.

There are several reasons why you should be upfront and honest about your intentions to leave the company. These reasons and some additional tips for easing the resignation process are shared below.

Tell Your Manager ASAP. Some people may disagree with me on this one because they think it will make your relationship with your boss and others in the company strained until you leave, but I think it is best to be upfront and honest. As soon as you have signed a contract with another company, find the time and the appropriate situation and tell your current manager very quickly that you are going to leave. Even if it does strain the relationship, you will still be viewed in a more positive light for being honest and professional right away.

Be Clear on Your End Date. Make sure you know and share the exact date you will no longer be employed with your current company. If you are starting a new job, make sure you know your start date as well.

Submit a Letter of Resignation. Determine what the expectations are for resigning from your company and write a letter or an email to the appropriate level of management. Use appropriate and professional language in the letter. Even if you are not leaving on the best of terms, you still want to present yourself professionally. You never know when you could run in to a former boss or when you may be seeking employment again. DO NOT burn any bridges.

Clean and Pack. Prepare to spend a lot of time on this task. It is amazing how much stuff you can accumulate at the office, from file folders to pens to tape dispensers. Make sure you know which office supplies are yours, which are the company's, and which ones you're allowed to take (calendars, pens, notebooks, staplers, pen holders, coffee mugs, laptop bags). Bring in boxes, bags, and anything else you will need to get your stuff packed up and ready to exit along with you.

Tie up any Loose Ends.This task will be different for everyone, but make sure you tie up any loose ends before you leave. For example, make sure all project tasks are complete. If you travel for your company, be clear on whether your travel points are yours or the company's.

Leaving a job can be difficult and stressful, but it can also be exciting and invigorating. Use these tips to make the resignation and transition processes easier.