Growing up, we were always told to follow through and never quit, even when things get hard. But quitting isn’t always a bad thing. Quitting can be the first step to moving on to bigger and better opportunities. It’s been said that Canadians will hold 12 jobs on average in their lifetime, hopefully voluntarily. While you might be eager to quit your job and move on to a new opportunity, remember there is a right and wrong way to resign. Even though you are moving on, there are a couple of steps to take to not burn any bridges.
Check your employee code of conduct
You’ve made the official decision that it’s time to quit. But before you do anything rash, give your contract or employee handbook a once over. Two weeks notice is typically the standard; however, some employers might have a different policy. Check for any non-compete clauses as these could impede which jobs you can and can’t apply for. It never hurts to seek any legal counsel to help you decipher through any legal jargon.
Prepare talking points
Before you meet with your boss, come up with some talking points that you would like to address. Don’t go in and wing it. Going in prepared will help you remain level-headed and ensure you don’t blank out when it comes time for the big discussion. Practicing with a friend or in the mirror
Let your boss know first
Even if some of your close colleagues are already aware of your job hunt, your boss should be the first one to know your official end date. It might be uncomfortable but schedule a time to meet with your employer and give them the courtesy of talking face-to-face. With the world becoming increasingly remote, an in-person meeting might not be possible, but a video call or a phone call is also acceptable.
Crafting your resignation letter
Ideally, your resignation letter will follow your chat with your employer. It should be brief, formal but still, take a positive tone. This letter shouldn’t exceed one page, and it’s not necessary to include your reasons for resigning. A copy of this should be sent to your manager as well as the company’s HR department.
When crafting your letter, it should follow this general structure:
- Header: Placed at the top of your letter and should include your name, the date, company name and address
- Greeting: Address your recipient with a simple salutation
- A resignation statement: Be direct and include your final date
- Show your appreciation: Briefly mention how you benefited from the position
- Your next steps: What work do you intend to complete before your departure
- Closing: End with another brief salutation, your printed name and signature
Example:
October 12, 2021
John Smith
Company Name
1234 Example Street
Toronto, Ontario K0K 1J8
Dear Ms. Brown
Please accept this letter as my two-week notice for my resignation from my position as a . My final day of employment will be October 26, 2021.
I want to thank you for your guidance and support. I appreciate all the opportunities you have given me and enjoyed working with you and the rest of the team. As I continue my career I
During my final two weeks, I would like to help with this transition in any way I can. I am available to help recruit and train my replacement and ensure any necessary materials are transferred over to the appropriate personnel.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
John Smith
Make a smooth transition
Just because you’ve put your notice in doesn’t mean it’s vacation time. Create a transition plan, so you aren’t leaving your colleagues high and dry. Be sure to pass on the appropriate materials to your successor if you are a key player on any current projects. If you work directly with clients, reach out to your employer first to get the go-ahead to disclose your departure. Your company might prefer to communicate the news themselves so always check beforehand. Ultimately you don’t want to leave anyone hanging.
Ask for an exit interview
Exit interviews aren’t required, but it’s not a bad idea to request one if your employer hasn’t already. The exit interview is an opportunity for both parties to give and receive feedback. The feedback you get can help you recognize strengths and weaknesses and make you a better employee as you move forward in your career. This is your time to let your former employer understand what worked and what didn’t, which in the end, can help them create a better work environment.
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