Making the decision to start to look for new job opportunities is the first step to making the change to your circumstances that could bring you a happier future. So, once you have mastered the CV writing bit, completed endless application forms, battled the interview nerves and have secured a job offer that you are happy with. Accept the job… now the time has come to tell your current employer. 

 

As exciting as it is to have your new job mapped out and fresh experiences ahead – it’s never easy to tell your boss that you’re leaving. 

 

Firstly – leaving your job could be more about your growth and progression than about anything negative towards your current workplace so it doesn’t always have to be a daunting prospect. Not everyone leaves their job because they’re deeply unhappy – sometimes a new start and progressive challenge is just what’s needed for you, your family and your future. 

 

So, once the offer letter is in your hand, your new contract is signed, and a start date has been confirmed then you need to decide on how and when you will sit down with your boss. And indeed – what you’re going to say. 

 

My advice would be to give your current employer plenty of notice and put some thought into the transition period to support the gap you will leave behind. You may even volunteer to support on finding your replacement and guide someone through their 1st week in the business with an onboarding handover pack of information. Think about what you had in your first few weeks and what could’ve been useful. Consider your timing – you need to adhere to your contractual agreement for your notice period but if you can give an extra few days to support the transition it may well go a long way. 

 

Don’t burn bridges with your employer and you should expect them to not burn bridges with you – an amicable departure is favourable for all. You never know when you will cross each other’s paths in the future. 

 

Think about your communication style – texting your boss and never going back in again is not the way to resign. You must resist the temptation to do that – and you will feel better in the long run for not taking that option. Book a meeting and have some face to face time with your boss. 

 

Formulate the reasons you have come to the decision to leave your job – with a positive constructive slant to the story. My advice would be to show the company off in a good light. You have been employed there for X number of months/years so should be graceful in departure.  

 

Keep the conversation professional – no matter what is said or if you feel it becomes difficult. Explain that you are willing and happy to help with the transition period and the handover. Ensure your boss knows that you are keen to leave the role in good shape and to help mitigate any loss of momentum in the team or businesses. 

 

Think carefully about your plan of action should your manager come back to you with a counteroffer. What would it take for you to stay at your old company? If you have made your mind up, can see the opportunity in your new job and have gone through all the options in your own head, then you can say thank you but turn away counter offers quickly and with clarity. 

 

You must work through your notice period with focus and dedication – until your last day. No matter how exciting the next venture may be – you must finish one job with the same enthusiasm as you start the new one. 

 

It may be the case that depending on your roles/reasons for leaving / future job plans – you could be asked to leave on the day of your resignation. Don’t be alarmed by that. It’s not a personal thing, it may well be company policy. So, exit with good grace. 

 

Say thank you to those who have coached, supported or worked for you / with you. Leave the job in better shape than when you first took it, hold your head high and shake your manager’s hand as you leave. 

 

Then…. onto your next challenge! 

 

Good luck!