How to Resign from a Job You Hate: 10 Important Steps
This is 2020; staying at a job you really hate shouldn't be an option. If you truly hate your job, you have to get out to keep your sanity. The decision can be tough, but you shouldn't sacrifice your happiness just because you need to keep a job. Besides, you can find a better job or build a career as an entrepreneur or freelancer.
Do you really hate your job? Are you hoping to quit the right way? We've got you covered here. No matter how you hate the job, you shouldn't burn bridges when you leave. It is always best to leave on good terms with your employer and coworkers. Here, we will discuss how you can do that in the most professional manner.
Take Time to Reflect On the Job
If you don’t figure out why you really hate a particular job before quitting, you may land yourself in another job you hate. Just before calling quit, take time to reflect on your job. What are the major things you hate about the job? It may be long hours at work, irritating coworker, a long commute, or poor pay. Is there any chance that your major source of annoyance can be addressed? If you are being bullied, for instance, you can make an official complaint and see if things improve. You may reconsider your decision to quit if there is a solution to the major challenge you face in the workplace.
While reflecting on your job, consider the things you like about the work. Weigh your options carefully before making up your mind about whether to quit or stay. If you are really intent on quitting, take time to appreciate the things you love about the job before you get out.
Prepare To Leave Honorably
If, after reflecting on the job, you feel that quitting is the right decision, prepare for your exit. You shouldn't quit the very day you make the decision. Depending on your next move, take actions in preparation for your resignation. You can update your resume and give your LinkedIn profile a makeover. Do not forget to start saving some work samples to update your portfolio. It is also not a bad idea to start searching for a job once you have made the decision; unless you are planning to take a break or become your own boss. Do not let your preparation interfere with your job. Use your non-work hours for the preparations.
It is also important that you prepare financially for the period you will stay unemployed unless you already have a job you are moving to. If possible, prepare for up to six months of not earning a salary. You can consult a financial planner if you know you need help with financial preparation.
Inform Your Employer
You should inform your employer about your decision to quit in time. This doesn’t mean you should go to the boss and break the news immediately you make the decision. This is best done when you have personally prepared and have decided on the exact date to quit. Remember that you need to leave in good terms, so make sure you have a concrete plan on how best to break the news to the boss. Here are some recommendations for you:
Give Two Weeks’ Notice, At Least
It is rude and unprofessional to inform your employer about your decision to quit a few days before the day you plan to quit. You should notify the person in charge at least two weeks before you leave. This will give the employee the time to replace you. If it is possible, notify your boss about four good weeks before you leave the organization.
Tell the Boss in Person
Informing your employer that you want to leave can be a little nerve-wracking. It becomes even tough when you have to do it in person. This happens to be the best way, however. Most employers will appreciate it better when you tell them about your decision to quit in person. They may have a few questions, and you should answer them politely.
Try and Keep it Positive
There is no need to tell your employer to his face that you hate your job. It will be easier for you and the boss if you keep the details to yourself and sound neutral or positive. This will make your last days in the organization more tolerable. You may even get a surprise package from a good employer.
Be Brief
You need to be brief when you tell your employer that you want to quit. Try to go straight to the point and don't dwell on the details of why you want to quit. You can simply say you are leaving for personal reasons if the employer wants to know why. Even when the boss probes further, try to keep your explanations brief.
Offer to Help with the Transition
You should offer to help make the transition easy for your team. Employers generally appreciate that when they become aware that they are going to lose an employee. Propose it when you notify your boss about your intention to quit. It is a great way to make a positive impression and leave on good terms.
Hand in Your Resignation Letter
To make things official, you need to write your resignation letter. In most organizations, you will be required to send a copy to the HR department and another to your employer. You can do this a day or two after informing your employer in person.
Say Goodbye to Your Coworkers
You can inform your coworkers about your decision after handing in your resignation letter. It can make your last days at the job happier. You can send goodbye emails or letters to the ones you care about the day you leave.
Conclusion
We have explained the best way to quit a job you hate. This approach is recommended when your reasons to quit are personal. You shouldn't make so much noise about it, rather approach it professionally. However, if you and coworkers experienced discrimination, harassment, or another kind of serious abuse in the workplace, you should lodge an official complaint before walking out.
