How to leave your job gracefully

When you’ve landed a new role, it may be tempting to quit your current job immediately and never look back. But it’s a small world and you never know when you may run into – or work with – colleagues again. A dramatic exit and burning multiple bridges is not the way to go. You want to leave a lasting positive impression of professionalism, whatever your reasons for resigning.

Here’s how to leave your job gracefully.

1. Make sure this is the right decision

Before resigning, carefully consider why you’re thinking of leaving. Perhaps you’re jumping into a new job simply because you dislike your current one. Maybe you don’t think there’s any chance of growth – but haven’t even discussed this with your manager. Objectively look at the pros and cons to help you decide. After thinking it through and making the choice to leave, create an ‘exit plan’ with the date you want to stop working, as well as all the steps you need to take before then. This will give you confidence when informing your employer and shows you’re a true professional.

2. Give sufficient notice

After deciding to resign, the next step is to find out how much notice (if any) you should give. This depends on your length and type of employment, as well as the terms in your employment contract. Make sure you hand in your notice properly by checking on Fairwork. This, combined with reading your employment contract thoroughly, will ensure that both you and your employer are doing things the right way. Also confirm any remaining leave and when to expect your final paycheque, so you can plan accordingly.

3. Set up a meeting with your manager

Whether it’s virtual or in person, it’s a good idea to schedule a meeting with your manager so they’re not blindsided by your resignation. During the conversation, remember you’re not obliged to explain in detail why you’ve made the decision. Provide clear, concise information – it can be as simple as stating you’ve been offered a more flexible role elsewhere – and remain positive throughout the conversation. Express gratitude for what you’ve learnt from your current role. And don’t be afraid to ask for a reference if your working relationship has been positive. Remember, this a normal part of working life and you’re not doing anything wrong by moving on to your next role.

4. Write a resignation letter

Writing a resignation letter is important as it provides your employer with an official document stating that you’re leaving and your last working day. As well as this information, you can choose to state the reason, but this is optional. If relevant, offer assistance to other colleagues to enable a smooth transition when you leave. Add contact information so your employer can get in touch in the future, which is often necessary to tie up loose ends or handle paperwork. The letter can be printed out and handed to your employer, but these days resignation emails are also perfectly acceptable.

5. Prepare for an exit interview

Exit interviews are increasingly common for many companies and are usually carried out by an HR representative. This is different from the more informal meeting with your manager and provides an opportunity to give more detailed feedback. This isn’t, however, a chance to air grievances and vent. Remain professional, while keeping things factual. This is the time to give feedback, but it should be constructive. Think of this as a way to make future employees’ experience within the company better and you’ll go in with a positive mindset – as well as leave a positive impression. Practice ahead of time to ensure you leave emotions at the door and stick to the facts during the interview.

6. Stay focussed

The end may be in sight, but this shouldn’t be taken as an excuse to let your standards slip. Remember, colleagues will think about the final impression you left, not how you were before handing in your notice. Continue to show up on time, put effort into your tasks, and participate in meetings. Finish the job as you started – with enthusiasm, focus, and professionalism.

7. Ensure a smooth transition

After letting your employer know, you’ll probably have some time before the last working day. Take this period to wrap up projects, organise your files, and provide training if someone is stepping into your role. Offer help to teammates, making sure you’re leaving everyone with a clear path of how to progress once you’ve gone. You may end up working with these colleagues again in the future, so it makes sense to make this transition as smooth as possible.

Are you moving on to your next role? At Adecco, our experts are here to provide you with the latest career advice. You can always reach out to our team to get expert insight into the world of work.