I know, I know. It's all about the BIG STAY right now! Not many folks are calling it quits in light of fewer jobs, harder to obtain white collar jobs, and the AI threat that is so real to many careers right now.
However, someone is always going to be afforded a new opportunity and it could be YOU. But before we double down on smugness to our current companies and gloat about our new title and pay increase, let's make sure we're exiting the company the right way for everyone's benefit.
As a 20+ year HR pro, I was always surprised at how many people really didn't understand how to quit and what was involved. Here's a peek behind the scenes of how to quit successfully!
First, you as the employee want to make sure everyone is on the same page about your last day of work. Is it Friday or Wednesday? You don't want any misunderstandings that could impact your final paycheck or your last day of any covered medical benefits. Calculate your vacation time that has not been taken, but has been accrued. Determine what the last day of your medical benefits coverage is. What do you need to do with your 401K account? Solid questions that you will need to address prior to leaving.
Second, I'd ensure that both your manager and your HR representative get a copy of your resignation letter. In larger organizations, there is a lot of actions between different departments that need to occur prior to your last day. IT needs your equipment. Payroll is determining any vacation payouts. HR needs to update your HRIS record and schedule and exit interview. Accounting needs to ensure your expense account is closed out. A resignation letter to your manager and HR helps ensure these teams are aware of your departure so YOU can have a smooth exit.
Next, don't just send some files and run out the door. Have a specific checklist for handoffs to your fellow team members and your manager. Don't let things fall through the cracks that could impact customers. They don't deserve that and neither does your team scrambling to find out what you've done the last 6 months.
Lastly, I think an email letter is key for a resignation letter. Having a document in writing ensures that future parties know that you actually resigned on your own terms versus being terminated by the company. An email is probably a much more effective record as opposed to a text to someone's phone. You can start with a personal conversation with your manager. That's important, but definitely follow up with a written email to your manager and HR that simply states you're resigning, as of this date, from my role as XYZ. Again, written documentation that can be a part of your file is a much better option for your own protection and future career opportunities. And no, do NOT quit on social media! A TikTok video telling your boss you quit, is NOT a good look!
Simple steps! That's all it takes. What are some ways you heard about people resigning from their companies that weren't so stellar? Let me know in the comments!
AEJ Consulting