So, you’ve decided to quit your job… Now comes “how to quit a job,” the right way. You might be tempted to quietly pack your things and slip out the side door. Or maybe go bigger by announcing your exit with a grand gesture, a mass email, or maybe even a mariachi band. And hey, if you never want to use your boss as a reference again, go for it!
But if you care about your reputation, and you should, there’s a better way. Quitting professionally isn’t just ‘following rules.’ It protects your future, keeps you in control of the narrative, and lets you leave with your professionalism (and relationships) intact.
Here’s exactly how to do it step by step.
Have a Plan Before You Give Notice
Before you send that resignation email or schedule the “we need to talk” meeting, get your ducks in a row first.
Line up your next step
Whether it’s a new job offer, a freelance plan, or just a break to regroup, you’ll want a solid game-plan before walking away from steady income. If you’re leaving without another job lined up, make sure you’ve got at least a few months of your expenses covered. And if you’re looking for a focus on diversity and inclusion jobs, you’re already at the right place!
Clean up and back up your stuff
Quietly gather what you’ll need later: copies of performance reviews, contacts you want to keep, anything in your personal folder or saved on your desktop. Don’t take proprietary information, but make sure you’re not locked out of your own portfolio.
Finish what you can
If you’ve got any open tasks, now’s the time to wrap them up or at least document what’s left. The smoother your handoff, the more respect you’ll earn on your way out.
Leaving on good terms starts before you even say a word. Once you’ve got a plan in place, you’re ready to give notice the right way.
How to Quit a Job (and What to Say When You Do)
Now that you’re ready to quit a job professionally, how you deliver the message matters. It can set the tone for your final days and can spoil how people remember working with you.
Start with proper notice
Two weeks is the traditional standard, but you can always check your contract or handbook. Higher-level roles or niche positions might call for a longer heads-up. Either way, don’t burn the bridge by bailing without warning.
Tell your boss first, directly
When possible, have a face-to-face or video call with your manager before emailing your resignation. Keep it short, respectful, and professional. This isn’t time to vent, it’s the time to stay composed and focused on your next chapter.
Example script:
“[Boss], I have to let you know, I’ve decided to end my time with [Company Name]. I really appreciate all of my experiences and growth. I will do everything I can to help with a smooth transition over the next two weeks.”
It’s also a good idea to follow up with a formal resignation email or letter. After the conversation, send a short, polite note confirming your final working day and again expressing appreciation. You don’t have to gush, just keep it professional, positive and to the point.
What NOT to say
Don’t badmouth the company, your team, or your boss. Remember, you’re not obligated to explain your reasons for quitting in detail. Avoid sarcasm and “truth bombs,” you don’t want how you quit a job to be the only thing people remember.
Handling counteroffers
If your employer tries to win you back with more money or a promotion, think carefully. Most people who accept counteroffers end up leaving within six months anyway. If you were already ready to go, trust that instinct.
Finish Strong, Exit Gracefully
Just because you’ve given notice doesn’t mean you’re done. In fact, your final stretch might leave the biggest impression of all. A professional exit shows integrity, earns goodwill, and makes future references a whole lot easier.
Tie up your work
Make a checklist of your active projects, deadlines, and responsibilities. Wrap up what you can, and for anything left hanging, write clear handoff notes so someone else can step in. Being helpful now means your name isn’t followed by a collective groan after you leave.
Offer to help with the transition
Whether it’s training your replacement, documenting processes, or helping create a hiring plan, offering your support is a classy move. You don’t have to overextend, just show you care about leaving things in good shape.
Say a proper goodbye
Take a moment to say goodbye to your team, even if you’re not feeling sentimental. A short email works fine:
“It’s been great working with you all. I’ve learned a lot and really appreciated the experience. Wishing everyone the best!”
A few sincere words can go a long way, especially if you want to keep the door open for future collaborations.
Keep showing up
Don’t mentally check out before your badge does. Show up on time, stay engaged, and avoid the “What are they gonna do… fire me?” attitude. You’re writing your final chapter, so make it a good one.
What to Do Once You’re Out
You’ve answered the question how do I quit a job. You’ve clocked out for the last time. Keys turned in, email shut off, Slack deactivated. Now what?
The first days after quitting a job can feel like a weird mix of freedom and “what do I do now?” Here’s how to use that time wisely:
Make sure you’ve updated your contacts
Before the dust settles, connect with former colleagues on LinkedIn or grab personal emails for anyone you want to stay in touch with. You never know when your paths will cross again.
Keep records
Save a copy of your final pay stub, 401(k) info, benefits documents, or anything related to your departure. HR systems can get tricky once you’re officially gone.
Take a real break (if you can)
Even if you’re starting something new right away give yourself at least a few hours, or a couple days if you can, to reset. Reflect on what you learned, what you want next, and what habits you want to carry forward or leave behind.
Update your job status
If you’re still looking for a new job, update your resume, LinkedIn, and any other online portfolios to show it. This is also a great time to fine-tune your personal pitch and get your application materials in shape. If you need some help, our free resume templates can be a great start.
Process, reflect, and grow
Every job teaches you something… about people, systems, leadership, or even yourself. Take what you’ve learned and use it for your next chapter.
Quit Smart, Leave Clean
When done right, quitting can be one of the most empowering things you do in your career. It’s your chance to take control, move forward, and do it without burning bridges or closing doors you might want to walk through again, someday.
So skip the drama, stay professional, and finish with the kind of grace that makes people say, “We’d work with them again in a heartbeat.”
Because careers are long. Reputations follow you. And how you quit a job matters just as much as where you’re headed.
