Every individual has various reasons behind their decision to resign from a job. However, ignoring due process before leaving the job is like taking a job from a client and not delivering. You are most likely not getting a referral, and you also would not be eager to check in for other opportunities.
What does it mean to resign from a job?
Resigning from the job is voluntarily leaving or quitting your relationship and services rendered on the job. It is a decision that an employee makes based on reasons best known to them. Regardless, resignation should be done politely and professionally.
To resign from a job is similar to alighting from a commercial bus. Every individual has a destination in mind and when they arrive at that destination, they do not move while the bus is still in motion. They inform the driver a few miles before the destination, they remind the driver when they are almost at the destination or when they get to the destination and then the driver stops for them to properly drop from the bus before it moves to the next destination. This illustration depicts that there are due processes to be followed when resigning from a job to avoid unnecessary issues in the future.
Steps to resign professionally from a job.
Joe Garcia once said, ‘’There is nothing to regret with a job well done’’. Simply put, if you do something the right way, you will have no reason to regret it later.
Resigning from a job transcends just leaving the job. It determines the kind of personality, character, and relationship an employee has with their employers and colleagues. It also reflects the conduct and discipline an individual upholds. Hence, the need to properly follow these steps to call it quits.
Reflect on why you are leaving and how to best present it:
A positive excuse is essential to leave a job as that will prevent a wrong perception of you in your workplace. It would also help to maintain a grudgeless relationship with the people you work with, leaving them with the mindset that you’re quitting on a neutral ground even if there are negative reasons for leaving. Do not give offensive reasons or excuses that question your capability or integrity.
Example: I am taking on a new career path – correct
Your organization lacks structure – Wrong
Provide a formal resignation letter and resign in person
It is ethical to provide a formal letter that explains the essence of your decision to quit and you also need to submit it yourself or via the work mail if you work remotely. Your letter should include:
- The acknowledgment of your employer
- Why you are choosing to leave
- Your notice period depends on the organization’s conduct
- Appreciation and signature
State your notice period.
Give a 2-week notice period to your organization or more depending on the conduct of your organization as stated in your offer letter. In case of an emergency, Submit and explain to your employer the reason for the urgent need to leave and also apologize for not giving prior notice before leaving. Sticking with a notice period would give your employer more time to find a replacement for you.
Hand over properly to the new staff
You should never leave businesses unfinished. Ensure to hand over any organizational documents that are in your position. This will prevent the organization from reaching out to you and will also ease your replacement from the stress of figuring out how to continue from where you’ve stopped. it would also give the professional who will be taking your role (s) the confidence they need to work and see you as a mentor to reach out to for advice whenever they are stuck on the job.
Inform your colleagues
The relationship between co-workers is beyond the four walls of the company. Your rapport with colleagues is a form of networking that can help your professional and personal development. It can also contribute to your reputation. You may find yourself in another important event or collaboration with your colleagues. So, be certain to leave a good impression. Ensure your colleagues are aware of your resignation. It shows you value the time you’ve spent working with them.
In conclusion, do not portray a lackadaisical attitude to work because you are resigning. Keep working effectively. Enjoy your last days and build a relevant connection. How you resign can serve as an edge to get references from ex-employers and co-workers which may also earn you career credibility. People will always remember your last days more than your early years. Ensure you leave on a positive note and do not forget to always stay in touch.
