PM Career | Quit the Job

​Very few people stay in one job for their whole career right now. Over 20 million people quit their positions in the second half of 2021, per CBS News. Therefore, leaving your current job is a natural process in career management. We just need to make a thoughtful decision and smooth transition during this process. Let's talk about some basic ethics to follow when leaving a job. 

The Decision - The decision should be respected, but we would give enough heads-up to our manager and team so that they can well manage the transition. We are not obligated to explain why we made the decision but give a reason that shows we must quit. A simple explanation could be, "I find another job that pays more and fits my career goals." Avoid giving negative feedback at this stage. Show our appreciation for the past opportunities instead. 

The Transition - Tell the immediate manager first and give at least two weeks' notice. Typically, the manager will announce and implement the transition plan to minimize the impact. If not, ask your manager when you can notify your colleagues or arrange the transition of current work. Don't make a public announcement before your manager agrees to do so. It suggested you create a transition document outlining your responsibilities and open tasks that need to be transitioned and close them before you leave. 

The Emotion -  Leaving jobs can be emotional both for you, your manager, and team members. Different people might react to your decision differently. However, don't take it personally. Handle this professionally. 

The Farewell Letter: Write a short farewell email to show your respect and keep the connection using the words like, "I'd love to keep in touch. Here's my contact info...”
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​The objective of your resignation process is to move on gracefully, keep the relationship, and avoid burning the bridges. 

​References 

• Ron Carucci, Yes, You Can Quit Your Job Without Burning a Bridge, July 2021
• Tom Gerencer, How to Quit a Job & Tell Your Boss You're Leaving (Examples), June 2022
• Liane Davey, How to Manage Morale When a Well-Liked Employee Leaves, November,