What’s the best way to quit your job? There isn’t one good way, but as many would advise – it’s best not to burn any bridges. Even if you hate your job, or you can’t wait to start your new position, handing in your notice is never easy. The goal is to resign as tactfully, peacefully and as gracefully as possible. Malta is small and word travels fast – you don’t want to alienate everyone in your field. There are a few things to consider before resigning.

First of all, decide if you really want to quit your job

Ask yourself if it’s the right time, if the motives behind quitting or preferring the new job are sound or if you really want  the change or simply a break. Sometimes it’s just been a terrible week and you’ve had it up to your nose. It’s worth looking at the bigger picture. There are quite a few signs that will tell you it’s time to go. You may be feeling burnt out and as a consequence, your productivity has declined. You may also find that conversations at home tend to be centred around the many bad days you may be having at work. Perhaps, you’ve discussed quitting and pursuing something else for a long time. Do you have another job offer in hand? Consider all the pros and cons. If you don’t have another job lined up – make sure you have the finances to back you up for a few months – because the job hunt might take a while.

Give adequate notice

Your contract and local employment legislation will outline the minimum amount of notice required, however it’s worth discussing this with your employer, as it will help ease the transition. If your employer asks you to stay longer than your notice period as outlined by law, you have no obligation to stay. Your new employer will be expecting you to start in a timely manner. Moreover, if you plan to give your current employer a longer notice period (for a multitude of reasons – such as a pending project you’d like to see through), it’s best to advise your new employer.

Write a letter of resignation

Depending on the level of formality of the company you work for as well the size and hierarchy of the company you may be required to hand in a resignation letter to the HR department and your manager. Depending on the circumstances (such as remote work), you may need to quit over the phone or via email. Many won’t expect you to post it via snail mail, in today’s day and age.

Have the chat

Everyone likes closure, and having a chat with your boss as to why you are leaving will help provide closure to you as well as to them. Of course, it’s not worth dwelling on negatives at this point. Focus on the positives, thank them for the opportunity and give a short explanation as to why you have decided to move on. This is also where you relay your work and give a handover of your current projects. Some companies will also require a meeting with the HR manager or representative for an exit interview.

Tie up loose ends

If you have contacts in or outside the company that you email often, let them know you will be leaving and introduce them to your replacement. If no one is replacing you, ask your manager whether you should indicate them as the new contact. This is also when you hand over company property (such as your laptop). As one last point, do not forget to ask for a reference, which you can share with prospective employers. Wrap up pending work and thank your colleagues. It’s time for the next step in your career.

Good luck!

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