How to exit your job gracefully

As you set forth on a new journey, you definitely don't want to burn your bridges with your employer. Here's how you can quit gracefully...

At one time or another we are definitely going to be faced with the dilemma of having to quit a job and wonder how to do it gracefully and smartly.

Here are a few protocols to consider when you are deciding to move on from your current workplace.

1. Always resign in person.

That is the most graceful way to do it, even though an email may be the easier way out.

Speak with your superior outlining reasons for the same and then submit your resignation via email.

2. Formulate a smooth transition plan to hand over your work to someone else.

Make sure you don't flood your boss with responsibilities.

Leave enough time for your employer to find and train the person who will be taking over your position.

3. Consider writing a polite, heartfelt letter.

While it should also state that you're leaving, talk about what you have learnt from the company and make it a thank you note to the people from whom you learnt something.

4. Define why you want to leave your job and when you are explaining the same to your superiors, try and keep the reason positive unless they ask for critical feedback.

Even then, don’t pour out all your anger.

Learn to be neutral and calm.

You never know when you might have to come back.

5. Tell your manager before anyone else.

The person who has supervised you is the one who should know first rather than getting to hear from someone else.

6. Never walk out of your old organisation without notice.

Make sure you speak with all your colleagues especially any one you feel that has mentored you or been of great help to you.

The personal touch always helps and will also help maintain your relationships.

7. Don't clock out mentally.

You may have served your notice period but you haven't left yet.

Work with the same professionalism as before until your last minute at work.

8. Don’t forget to hand over data and any office equipment before leaving.

9. If there are any bills pending for reimbursement, make sure you clear those before you leave as it will be troublesome for not only you but for your employer as well.

10. Remove all personal items from your work area before you leave.

11. Most importantly, keep in touch.

You never know when you might want to go back for a referral or some advice.

12. Make sure your new job is secure.

Finalise all the details before you do quit your old job.

A bird in hand is worth two in a bush.

We've all got journeys to explore, however, begin a new one the right way. Keep moving!

The author is the youngest leading image strategist certified as a personal branding and merit image consultant by the London Image Institute. She is founder and CEO of Iopener.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff.com