As much as you may enjoy your job, sooner or later the time will come when you need to resign. Perhaps your career needs to move in a different direction, perhaps you need to be challenged more, or perhaps you’ve simply been made an offer you can’t refuse. Whatever the reason, when you do resign from a job, do so professionally.
DO check your current employment contract first
Do you need to give 30 days’ notice, a calendar month’s notice, or more? Know the correct notice period so you don’t breach your contract. The more you can avoid any drama or potential penalties, the better.
DON’T resign too early
If you’re moving to another job, don’t quit before you’ve signed your new contract and your employment is guaranteed. The last thing you want to do is resign prematurely and be without any job at all.
DO tell your boss first
Telling your colleagues before informing your boss is bad etiquette. As your manager, they have the right to know first so that they can make the best decision for the company.
DON’T burn your bridges
Once you’ve resigned, you may be tempted to slack off during your notice period or badmouth the company. Resist this urge and make every effort to behave as a model employee. You never know when any unethical behaviour could come back to bite you years down the line.
DO say thank you
Even if you weren’t happy at your company, chances are you still learned something from someone. Make sure to thank them sincerely before you leave. A little goodwill can help you go a long way in life.
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