I quit!

So, having been inspired by the fabulous tales of other people’s fantastic careers, which you eagerly turn to every week at the back of Building, you have decided to take the plunge and accept a new job. But then comes the really tricky bit: the small matter of resigning.

Decision time

For some people, the moment the phone rings and a job opportunity arises, they succumb to the overwhelming urge to accept, even before serious consideration is given to whether it forms part of a planned career path. Yet for others, making the decision to resign can be as stressful as starting a new job.

The first thing to do is stand back, clear your head and be objective. Break away from your normal environment, grab a weekend away, talk to the family, bounce it off non-work colleagues – anything to take the decision out of your daily routine. The worst thing you can do is base the decision on the back of a bad day.

All sorts of thoughts will be going round your head: am I being disloyal? … my boss has always been good to me … better the devil you know … I’m leaving a final salary pension …

These are all security factors that, for some, will nearly always justify not making a career move. If the potential rewards don’t outweigh the risks on a personal front, you are probably making the right decision. You should also be asking: am I valued, challenged, happy?

The answers to these questions should be clear in your mind before tendering your resignation. If at any point the prospective job is no longer appealing, respectfully decline. Do not try to capitalise on the offer if you intend to stay.

An auction will without doubt damage your relationship with your employer and any gains are likely to be short-term.

Exit strategy

If you take the decision to leave, it is time to adopt an exit strategy. First thing on Friday morning is normally a good time to resign. Simple but obvious preparation helps it to run smoothly: check that the boss is in; type your resignation (a simple confirmation and thank you, no explanations); arrange a drink with a friend from outside work for the evening as a focus and de-stress session.

Lack of sleep and butterflies are natural. Keep reminding yourself why you are leaving, of the opportunity that lies ahead and prepare yourself for “that resignation conversation”.

Be decisive and adopt a strong delivery. A simple “I’ve accepted another position” should suffice. Typical responses might be: “Where are you going?” (I’d rather not say). “Anything we can do?” (Thank you, but no - I’ve already accepted the other position).

Don’t look back

A weak delivery (“I’ve been made an offer”, “I’m thinking of leaving”) immediately suggests that you are open to persuasion. Prepare yourself for an almost hostage-style interrogation as the boss clears his diary for the next few hours: “What are your frustrations?” “What can we change?” “We had big plans for you!” “I don’t accept your resignation!” (They can’t do this, by the way).

You may miraculously receive (within hours of your resignation) a new role, title and revised salary. Some people may be treated to This is Your Life-style guest appearances from the managing director and longstanding colleagues.

It is important to remember at this point that your decision has been made. If they value you, they will want to keep future options open. So shake hands and perhaps leave with the line “Who knows, maybe one day I will be back”.

And, with that, close the door.