Quitting a job is a major career move. Making the decision, let alone thinking about it can surely be petrifying. A lot goes in mind, including the doubts on whether you are making the right decision for your career, how and when you will give notice or even how to make this transition as smooth as possible. All of these elements need to be put into consideration; hence it is appropriate to consider certain factors before making this bold decision. First and foremost, plan ahead, says Lavie Mutanganshuro a communications practitioner. Before quitting your job, make sure that you have a plan B. It is vital and important that you have something lined up before making that big decision. According to him, it is also crucial to tell your employer before you tell colleagues. You may be eager to let everyone know about the new opportunities or changes in your life, but be sure you tell your direct supervisor first. “The last thing you want is for your boss to hear that you’re leaving through one of your co-workers,” he says. Yvette Mutoni, an employee at Kora Coaching says it’s important to archive and save work samples. When you leave your place of employment, you will lose access to everything work-related, sometimes immediately and sometimes within your last days at work, she says. She adds that checking in with your human resource manager or department to see what benefits you’re entitled to as an ex-employee is also important in terms of what’s in stock for you. “If you have unused sick leave or vacation time, see if you can be compensated for that with a lump sum payment or other means.” It’s also important to get the timing right. Once you have officially decided to leave your job, you can start thinking about the best time to enact your plan. Your departure timing is key, and it can make the difference between your leaving being warmly received and being met with hostility. Give as much notice as possible for when you plan on having your final day. At least two weeks is necessary and is the standard procedure. Solicit for feedback Some organisations require an exit interview, but even if yours doesn’t, it can be a good idea to schedule one with your boss. During the interview, you will get the chance to exchange feedback with your boss and review your time at the organisation. Though it can be tempting, it’s best not to use this time to tell your boss off or complain about everything and mistakes made in your previous job. Just Keep it positive, polite, and constructive. If you have genuine concerns about your workplace, bring them up along with positive suggestions of how things could change. Experts recommend asking your previous employer about what your weaknesses and strengths were at your job, because, this information can be valuable in helping you figure out what tactics are working for you and which ones could use some improvement. Appreciating teamwork and support is also important, it makes people feel great to know that they’ve positively affected someone, says Anitha Sendakize a clinical psychologist. So if there’s anyone at the job that helped you out or made your life a little easier, be sure to thank them. A little gratitude can go a long way, she says. Sendakize advises to ask for recommendations; be it on LinkedIn or through other means. Recommendations mean a lot to both the people receiving them and their future employers. “Take time to write some recommendations and references for your colleagues, clients, and others.” Writer Gael Rutembese, is of the view that it’s good to leave on good terms, “Your final two weeks is not the time to go around your workplace and tell everyone what you really think of them. There’s bound to be at least one person you clashed with during your time at this job, but now’s the time to take the high road.” He also advises to think hard about accepting a counteroffer. When you inform your boss of your decision to leave the company, he or she may make a counteroffer in an attempt to keep you around. You may be offered incentives like a raise in your salary or a promotion. While it may be tempting to accept this counteroffer, remember the reasons why you have chosen to leave.
