How to Quit Your Current Job Without Burning Bridges

If you’re like most employees who make the decision to move on to a better opportunity, it probably didn’t happen overnight. In fact, statistics from a recent Forbes article reveal that approximately 65% of employees in the United States are not satisfied with their current position and 32% are actively looking for new work. That’s a lot of disengaged, burned-out, worn-out, and just plain unhappy individuals showing up at their place of employment every day. You’re probably nodding your head in agreement right now. This was your story as well, –but not anymore. You’ve assessed the opportunities (or lack of them) in your current position, and after weighing out the pros and cons, you’ve decided to jump ship. So, what’s next? I’m glad you asked.

As the owner of HH Staffing Services, I hear a lot of “quitting stories.” Some exits are executed well, and some are not. Here’s my advice to anyone who is dying to walk into work on Monday morning with a recording of “Take this Job and Shove it!” playing as their anthem.  Interested in more blog visit us on our website at www.hhstaffingservices.com

Developing a Positive Exit Strategy

First and most importantly, –Don’t burn your bridges…ever! Sure, your current position may be absolutely unbearable, that’s why you’re leaving, but walking into work and telling your boss everything you’ve wanted to say for the last six months is not the way to go about it. The proper procedure involves two steps:

• Writing and submitting a letter of resignation
• Giving two week’s notice

Depending on the size and formality of the organization you work for, a formal letter of resignation may not seem necessary. It’s always a good idea to write one though. It will help you gather your thoughts and solidify your decision.

What Should Your Resignation Letter Say?

A letter of resignation should thank your current employer for the opportunity they’ve provided while regretfully informing them of your intent to leave. The tone of the letter should be polite, respectful and businesslike with absolutely zero undertones of sarcasm or dissatisfaction. Regardless of your reasons for leaving, making an enemy out of your current employer will likely come back to haunt you one day, and your letter will likely become a part of your permanent employee file. If you do feel the need to state your reasons, put a positive spin on them if at all possible. Never directly mention supervisors or employees you’ve had trouble with. That’s all in the past now that you’ve made your decision to leave.

Your letter of resignation should include the following:

• Your clear intent to leave your position with the effective date your resignation is effective. This is generally two weeks from the date of the letter. Keep in mind, your employer may ask you to leave sooner (possibly immediately), and has every right to do so. If your employer feels you are a threat to other employees and may spread negativity, you may be relieved of your duties right away. On the other hand, you may be asked to complete your two weeks and possibly even train your replacement. Do so with a positive attitude. Why tarnish the new staff member? After all, this may be a perfect fit for them.

• Sincerely thank your employer for the opportunity to grow with their company. If you accomplished something noteworthy or received one or more opportunities to excel, mention them in a positive fashion. Even if you can’t wait to escape your current workplace, be positive about your time with your current employer.

• Warning! Do not put anything in your resignation letter that you would not want to be shared with future employers. This is why a short, businesslike approach is best. Getting into reasons and using phrases like “dead end,” “no room for advancement,” or mentioning the low pay are all bad decisions.

Hopefully, your exit strategy includes more than a well planned out resignation. It’s not a good idea to leave your current position without having another job lined up. If you’re a reliable, experienced professional in the Tampa, Bradenton, Orlando or Sarasota area, HH Staffing Services can provide you with temporary employment opportunities as well as temp-to-perm positions.

No one has to feel “stuck” in a dead-end job. Give us a call today! Our interview and extensive skill assessment techniques will highlight your strengths, present them to potential employers, and have you in the job of your dreams in no time. Matching skills and personalities to positions is what we do, every day. We’re like the eHarmony of employment, and we do our job well!