How to Quit a Job the Right Way: A Complete Guide for Professionals
At some point in your career, you’ll face the decision to leave a job. Maybe you’ve landed a better offer, maybe you’re burned out, or maybe it’s simply time for a change. Whatever the reason, how you quit matters.
Walking away on the wrong terms can damage relationships, cost you references, or even create legal or financial consequences. Doing it the right way, on the other hand, preserves your professional reputation and helps you move forward with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about quitting a job the proper way, including:
- Signs it might be time to leave
- Why your employment contract matters
- How much notice to give (and when exceptions apply)
- How to draft a professional resignation letter
- Tips for talking to your manager
- What to expect during your notice period
- How to handle exit interviews
- Common mistakes to avoid
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to leave your job with dignity, professionalism, and your career intact.
Step 1: Know When It’s Time to Leave
Before you resign, it’s important to be sure of your decision. Some common reasons people quit include:
- A better job offer with higher pay or better benefits
- Lack of career growth opportunities
- A toxic workplace or poor management
- Burnout or poor work-life balance
- Relocation or life changes
If you’re leaving for another job, tools like JobForager can help you compare offers and make sure the new role is truly worth it.
Step 2: Review Your Employment Contract
Before handing in your resignation, carefully review your employment contract or employee handbook. This is a critical step many people skip.
Contracts can include:
- Notice periods: Some employers require two weeks, others 30–90 days, especially for senior roles.
- Non-compete agreements: Restrictions on working for competitors after leaving.
- Bonus/commission clauses: You may forfeit bonuses if you quit before a certain date.
- Repayment obligations: For relocation expenses, tuition assistance, or signing bonuses.
Why it matters: Failing to follow contract terms can lead to lost pay, legal disputes, or damaged relationships. Always check the fine print before resigning.
Step 3: Decide on Your Timing
Most professionals give two weeks’ notice, but the right amount depends on:
- Your contract requirements (always follow the minimum stated).
- Your role level: Senior roles may require longer notice for transition.
- Company norms: Some industries (like academia or consulting) expect longer.
- Personal circumstances: If the workplace is toxic or unsafe, you may decide to leave sooner — but understand the risks.
If you’re moving to another job, align your notice period with your new start date so you avoid gaps or conflicts.
Step 4: Plan Your Transition
Leaving smoothly isn’t just about giving notice — it’s also about preparing your team for your absence.
Before you resign:
- Document your projects and processes.
- Identify who will take over key responsibilities.
- Clean up personal files from your work computer.
- Save performance reviews or accomplishments for your portfolio.
This shows professionalism and makes it easier for your manager to support your transition.
Step 5: Write a Professional Resignation Letter
A resignation letter doesn’t need to be long — just professional and respectful.
Key elements to include:
- Statement of resignation (clear and direct).
- Your last working day (based on notice period).
- Appreciation for the opportunity.
- Offer to help with the transition.
Sample Resignation Letter:
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company], effective [Last Working Day].
I am grateful for the opportunities I have had here and for the support from you and the team. I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition, including documenting my current projects and assisting in the handover process.
Thank you again for the experience and guidance. I wish [Company] continued success.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Keep it simple, this letter may go in your HR file.
Step 6: Tell Your Manager First (In Person if Possible)
The conversation with your manager is the most important part of resigning. Ideally, do it in person or over video call if remote.
Tips for the conversation:
- Be clear and concise: “I’ve decided to resign from my role, and my last day will be [date].”
- Express gratitude, even if the job wasn’t perfect.
- Don’t overshare personal frustrations. Keep it professional.
- Be prepared for any reaction — surprise, disappointment, or even relief.
Step 7: What to Expect After Resigning
Once you resign, here’s what might happen:
- Counteroffer: Your employer may try to keep you with higher pay. Think carefully, many who accept counteroffers leave within a year anyway.
- Immediate Exit: In some industries, especially finance or sales, you may be asked to leave immediately after resigning. Be ready for this possibility.
- Transition Planning: Most companies will ask you to help train or document for your replacement.
Step 8: Handle the Exit Interview Gracefully
Many companies conduct exit interviews to gather feedback.
What to do:
- Be honest but constructive. Focus on what could improve, not just complaints.
- Don’t burn bridges. Assume your comments could be shared with leadership.
- Keep the focus on your career growth and future goals.
Step 9: Avoid Common Mistakes
When quitting, avoid these pitfalls:
- Quitting without notice (unless unavoidable).
- Badmouthing your employer to coworkers or on social media.
- Slacking off during your notice period.
- Taking sensitive company data with you, this can be illegal.
- Failing to check your contract for obligations like repayment clauses.
Step 10: Leave on Good Terms
How you leave a job can impact your career for years. Always aim to:
- Finish strong and complete your work.
- Thank your colleagues.
- Stay connected with managers and peers on LinkedIn.
- Keep the door open — you never know when you might cross paths again.
Quitting a Job Without Another Lined Up
Sometimes you may need to quit without a new job due to health, toxic environments, or personal needs.
If you do:
- Review your finances and savings.
- Explore unemployment benefits (eligibility varies by state).
- Use the time to rest, upskill, or plan your next move.
If you do end up quitting without having a new one job lined up be sure to check out our guides How to Negotiate a Job Offer: A Complete Guide for Job Seekers and Understanding Total Compensation in a Job Offer when you start your job hunt!
Quitting vs. Negotiating
Before resigning, ask yourself: could your current job be saved through negotiation? Sometimes the issues leading you to leave, such as salary, flexibility, or career growth, can be addressed.
Check out our guide: How to Get a Raise to see if negotiating first makes sense.
Final Thoughts
Quitting a job is never easy, but it’s a normal and necessary part of a growing career. The key is to do it thoughtfully, professionally, and in accordance with your contract.
To recap:
- Review your contract for notice periods and obligations.
- Decide on timing and prepare your transition.
- Write a clear resignation letter.
- Speak with your manager respectfully.
- Leave on good terms, maintaining relationships.
Handled the right way, quitting isn’t burning a bridge, it’s opening the door to the next stage of your career.
Happy job hunting,
The JobForager Team