Resigning from your job can be an intimidating task. Maybe you found a better paying job, want to change your career, or want to pursue a higher education. 

Keep in mind that your boss always thinks that you enjoy your job and will stay forever. You might feel guilty resigning or you might just be afraid that your boss will get angry. So, how do you handle the situation?

Here are some tips that may help you:
 

 

Before you resign

 
  • Think carefully about your reasons and make sure that it's the right move. Ask yourself these questions: Why am I leaving this job? Have I tried all avenues to advance my career at my current job? Will I be better off at a new job?
  • Talk to your family and close friends and see what they have to say.
  • Realize that you will feel guilt for leaving. It's a normal emotion that happens to everyone who has gone through this process.
  • Review your company's policy on accepting resignations. Some companies usually require a 2-week notice. Most companies will consider the date you turn in your resignation letter as your last day of employment. If that happens, you may not be able to access your desk or computer. Be prepared by removing any personal files from the computer and your desk before turning in your resignation letter
  • If you're leaving under bad circumstances (i.e. sexual harassment) and are considering a lawsuit against your employer, collect evidence quietly and do not speak of your intentions to others at the company.
  • Think about what you're going to say before you meet with your boss to submit your resignation letter. Your boss may be surprised or become angry. No matter what, you need to stay cool and keep your composure. Thank your boss for his help during the past years but make it clear that you're leaving.


Think ahead before you leave!

 

 
Made up your mind?  Then stick to it!
 
Your employer may make a counteroffer to you when you submit your letter.  Be cautious about taking advantage of such an offer. Your loyalty to the company is now in question. If your employer has any financial problem later on, you might be the first target to be laid off. Also, realize that the counteroffer might be a temporary way to keep you until business slows down or a replacement is found. Numerous studies have shown that the basic reasons for wanting to change jobs in the first place will nearly always resurface. 
 
Changes made as the result of a counteroffer rarely last beyond the short-term. The National Employment Association claims that over 75% of employees that accept counteroffers are no longer with that company six months later, either through voluntarily leaving or dismissal.
 
Something else to consider is that your employer may probe your real reason for leaving by asking for "constructive critiques" from you. Although it's tempting to point out a few things it's never a good idea. Even if something is wrong with your former employer or some other issue, you should state that the only reason for resigning is because you have been presented a career opportunity that was too good to pass up. Tell the same story to your colleagues and anyone else who asks because rumor travels fast!
You also should realize that no resignation is a true farewell.  You never know when your career will cross paths with your former employer again and your future employers may check references from your former employers back to 10 years ago.  It's important that you don't burn any bridges behind you.
 
It's also important that you work hard until your last day. Finish what you're suppose to do if time permits and make sure that you leave on good terms.  Once you have settled down at your new job, take the time to write a letter or send a note to your former boss and coworkers letting them know how to stay in touch with you.
 
Leaving a job is never easy but it's a part of life that happens.  It can be a positive experience for everyone involved if you take the time to follow certain steps before, during, and after you have resigned.