You’ve landed a new job, decided to go back to school, or perhaps you’re just in need of a change. You’ve made the big decision – you’re quitting your job. But the tricky part is yet to come: How to tell your boss? Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to handle it like a pro.
The Importance of a Face-to-Face Conversation
Breaking the news through an email or text message can be tempting (especially if you’re a fan of avoiding confrontations), but trust me, it’s not the best course of action. This is a moment that calls for some good old-fashioned human interaction. Yes, we’re talking face-to-face conversation. Remember, your boss isn’t a mythical creature; they’re human too, and they deserve the courtesy of hearing the news directly from you.
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Maya Angelou
Choosing the Right Time
As with most things in life, timing is crucial. You don’t want to drop the bombshell just as your boss is about to head into a crucial meeting or at the end of a stressful day. A good rule of thumb is to find a calm, quiet moment in the workday, preferably in the morning. This gives your boss time to process the news and plan for the next steps.
Be Clear and Concise
Once you’re in the conversation, it’s best to get straight to the point. You don’t need to weave a Tolkien-esque saga about your decision. Simply express your intent to leave, provide your reasons if you feel comfortable doing so, and mention your last working day. Your resignation isn’t a plot twist in a soap opera – there’s no need for dramatic pauses or suspenseful music!
Expressing Gratitude
While you might be excited about your future plans, it’s important to acknowledge the time you’ve spent at your current job. A touch of gratitude can make the conversation easier and leave a lasting positive impression. After all, you might run into your old boss at a networking event, or who knows, even on a desert island if you’re both participants in a reality survival show. Stranger things have happened!
Formalizing Your Resignation in Writing
After breaking the news, you should formalize your decision in a resignation letter. This is where you can put your inner Shakespeare to work and craft a professional, polite letter outlining your intention to resign, the date of your last day, and your appreciation for the opportunity. Plus, it adds an air of “officiality” that saying “I quit” in the break room just doesn’t have.
Remember, leaving a job can be a stressful situation, but it’s also a time of growth and new opportunities. Follow these steps, and you’ll be able to tell your boss you’re quitting with professionalism and confidence.
What to Say: Dialogue Examples
Are you worried over how to shape this conversation? Let’s explore some practical examples of how to express your decision:
Example 1: “I wanted to speak with you to discuss something important. I have decided to pursue a new opportunity, and as such, I am tendering my resignation. My last day will be on [insert date]. I appreciate all the opportunities and experiences I’ve had here.”
Example 2: “I have some news I want to share with you. I’ve accepted a new position at a different company. This wasn’t an easy decision to make, as I’ve enjoyed working here. However, I believe this move is best for my career development. My last working day will be [insert date].”
Example 3: “I’ve been doing some reflecting and have decided to resign from my position. This decision has been difficult to make, but I feel it’s what’s best for me right now. I’m grateful for the time spent here and for your guidance.”
If you’re dealing with a boss who isn’t supportive of your decision or tries to shame you for leaving, remember this: You are not obligated to stay in an environment that doesn’t serve you well. Here’s how you might handle such a scenario:
“I understand this news might be disappointing. However, I believe this decision is the best for my professional growth. I’m grateful for my time here and hope we can part on professional terms.”
Your Resignation Letter: A Template
After your conversation, it’s important to formalize your resignation in writing. Here’s a sample letter you can use as a starting point:
Dear [Boss's Name], I am writing to formally resign from my position at [Company Name], effective [last working day, typically two weeks from the date of the letter]. During my time here, I've had the opportunity to [mention a project or responsibility you've enjoyed or learned from]. This experience has contributed significantly to my professional growth, for which I am grateful. I assure you that I will do everything in my power to ensure a smooth transition, including training a replacement or shifting my responsibilities to other team members. Thank you for your understanding, and for the opportunity to work at [Company Name]. Best regards, [Your Name]
Remember, standing up for your rights and well-being does not make you ungrateful or disloyal. It’s natural to feel anxious about leaving a job, but keep in mind, everyone has the right to seek new opportunities and happiness in their career. Your life, your decisions! Now, go out there and embrace your new journey!
