Stepping into the professional world is a series of ups and downs, of finding your passion and, sometimes, realizing when something isn’t the right fit. While it’s important to pursue what feels right for you, how you leave a position can have lasting impacts on your career.
For young adults navigating their professional journey, it is essential to understand the importance of quitting a job properly and not burning bridges. Here’s why:
Reputation is Everything
In many industries, professionals are interconnected more than you might realize. Word travels fast, and your reputation can precede you:
- Leaving a job with grace can lead to positive references for future employment.
- Conversely, a hasty or reckless exit can tarnish your reputation, challenging future job hunts.
The World is Smaller Than You Think
It’s surprising how often paths cross in the professional realm:
- Today’s coworker might be tomorrow’s hiring manager at a dream company.
- The boss you just left could have connections at other organizations you’re eyeing in the future.
Professional Growth
Ending things on a good note often allows for feedback sessions:
- Constructive criticism from current employers can be a goldmine, helping you identify areas of improvement.
- It’s an opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow, preparing you for the next professional challenge.
Potential Re-entry
You never know when you might want to return to a previous job:
- Situations change. The company might transform, or you might realize the grass isn’t always greener.
- Leaving respectfully keeps the door open for potential re-entry.
Personal Integrity
Quitting a job properly isn’t just about professional strategy; it’s about personal integrity:
- Standing by your commitments, giving proper notice, and ensuring a smooth transition speak volumes about your character.
- It cultivates a sense of self-respect and reinforces a personal brand built on trustworthiness and respect.
How to Quit Gracefully
- Give Proper Notice: Always strive to provide at least two weeks’ notice when resigning, allowing the company adequate time to prepare.
- Communicate: Speak directly with your supervisor rather than relying on digital communication. A face-to-face conversation, when possible, is ideal.
- Offer Assistance: Whether it’s training a replacement or documenting your responsibilities, this gesture is often appreciated.
- Stay Professional: Avoid badmouthing colleagues or the company even if you leave due to a negative situation. Stay focused on your reasons for moving forward.
- Express Gratitude: Regardless of your experiences, express gratitude for the opportunity. It demonstrates maturity and professionalism.
As young adults, each professional move shapes the trajectory of your career. While pursuing new opportunities is exciting, how you exit a role is just as crucial. By quitting gracefully and maintaining bridges, you protect your reputation and future opportunities and fortify the foundation of personal integrity that will guide you throughout your career.
For more tips on work ethic and how to make it in the workplace for young adults, subscribe to my VIP Reader’s Group and get exclusive first looks into my upcoming book, Adulting: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet, out this fall with Cedar Fort Publishing!
