Key Takeaways
- If your workplace is toxic, you dread every shift, or you feel undervalued or underpaid, these could be signs that it is time to quit your job.
- If you don’t have another job lined up, ensure that you are financially stable for a certain period of time, you’re updating your resume, and you are considering future references for a new job.
- Before you quit, make sure you give a two-week written notice and ask for the next steps for transitioning out of the job.
The time has come—you’re ready to quit your job. But now you might be wondering, How do I actually go about it? While it may seem straightforward at first thought, quitting is actually a big decision that requires serious consideration. Whether you have outgrown the role, been offered something better, or simply feel it’s time for a change, the way you leave matters.
This guide will walk you through the steps and considerations to help you quit your job with clarity, confidence, and professionalism, so you can leave on good terms and step into what’s next.
Signs It’s Time to Go
Whether you have been thinking about this for some time, or the thought just recently started swirling, here are some telltale signs it might be time to move on and start something new:
- You are dreading every shift. Pay attention to how often you feel anxious or burnt out when clocking into work. While occasional stress is normal, persistent dread or burnout is not—you shouldn’t be feeling this way about work regularly.
- You feel underpaid, undervalued, or overworked. Take an honest inventory of your workload, responsibilities, and emotional energy—and then compare it to your compensation, recognition, and support. Do you receive recognition from your manager or those in a higher role? If the answers you’re getting are less than satisfactory, it may be time to reevaluate your role.
- The job no longer fits your goals. If you envision yourself in a creative field like graphic design but are spending your time waiting tables, ask yourself whether this position is helping or hindering your growth. If the latter is the case, it might be time to start looking for jobs that align with what you want in your future.
- Your schedule is working against you. Maybe you’ve been working weekends, but that’s no longer conducive to your lifestyle or responsibilities. Remember, you deserve a job that works with your schedule.
- The workplace is toxic. Toxic can look like constant gossip, disrespect, a lack of boundaries, or never feeling heard. If this job is taking a toll on your mental health, it’s okay to walk away.
Before You Quit: Plan Well
Hold up—before you go submitting your notice, you need to make sure you have a plan in place. If you don’t have another job already lined up, here’s what you need to do:
- Check Your Bank Account: Can you afford to leave right now? Realistically consider how long you will be out of work and make sure you can afford your rent, groceries, and lifestyle, with a little cushion left in place.
- Start Updating Your Resume and Applying to Jobs: While you are still employed, this is a good time to make sure your resume is up to date with your current experiences. You may even start applying to other jobs, sending in your resume and cover letter.
- Consider Future References: Who may vouch for you later? Think about the professional relationships you have made in your current job and whether or not you feel comfortable asking them to be a reference later.
How To Quit Your Job (The Correct Way)
We’ve all seen the dramatic movie scenes where the lead actor walks into the office and declares, “I’m quitting!” in front of the entire office. Entertaining? Yes. Realistic? Not so much.
Quitting a job is a normal part of life. In fact, in March of 2025, 3.3 million Americans left their job voluntarily. Whether you choose to leave because of a toxic workplace, your job doesn’t line up with your goals, you’re starting a family, or you’re getting a new job, how you leave matters. So, if you’re planning to resign, here’s how to do it professionally and respectfully:
- Give At Least Two Weeks’ Notice: Unless your safety is at risk, you should always give a notice of at least two weeks to help your employer plan their next steps, including how to fill your role while looking for a replacement.
- Put It in Writing: This can be handwritten or emailed, but it must be in writing—even if you talked it over with your boss in person.
- Ask About Next Steps: In your email, you will want to ensure you are asking about what you need to do to help with the transition. You might need to fill out a resignation form or help transition your responsibilities. Make it clear you’re willing to support the handoff.
- Request an Exit Interview: This is a standard procedure in most jobs, but if it’s not, it’s okay to ask. This is your time to speak one-on-one with your boss or manager about your experience. It’s important that you stay polite and honest, without bashing the job or your coworkers. You may even ask during this time if they’d be willing to be a reference for you later on.
Here is a general template to use when writing your email:
Subject Line: Resignation – [Your Name]
Hi [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], with my last working day being [Last Day].
This wasn’t an easy decision, but after some careful thought, I’ve decided it’s the right step for me at this time. I’m incredibly grateful for the experience I’ve gained and the support I’ve received during my time here. Please let me know how I can help during the transition—whether that’s training someone new or wrapping up current tasks. I want to make sure everything is left in a good place.
Thank you again for the opportunity,
[Your Name]
Counteroffers: Should You Stay?
In some cases, your employer might make you a counteroffer to try to convince you to stay. This could look like a raise, more flexible hours, or even a company perk. It might feel flattering to receive this, and even more so tempting to take it! But before you say yes, ask yourself the following questions:
- Why was I leaving in the first place?
- Will this fix the real problem?
- Is this a sign of true change, or an attempt to keep me?
If these conditions were only offered after you decided to leave, this could be a red flag. However, not all counteroffers are a bad thing, and it may be just what you needed in order to stay. Ultimately, the choice is yours—and it should reflect your long-term goals, not just your short-term comfort.
The Transition Period
You’ve decided to quit your job and you’ve turned in your notice, but there’s still work to do—literally. The final weeks at your job might feel a little awkward or uncomfortable, but it’s important you stay positive. This says a lot about your character.
You may notice some coworkers treating you differently or acting distant, but know that this is not a reflection on you. You are prioritizing your growth, and that is something to celebrate. It takes courage to make a change, so be proud of yourself and the choices you have made.
If you’re comfortable, you can also share with your coworkers why you’re leaving, especially if these are relationships that you hope to maintain down the line. Make your final days count by asking a few coworkers to grab lunch together, bring donuts to your final shift, or leave a thank-you note for your manager.
What’s Next?
Now that your final day is behind you and goodbyes have been said, what comes next?
If you’re jumping into a new job, you’ll want the transition to feel seamless. A new job means new systems, people, and expectations, so be open to learning and staying flexible as you adjust to all of these changes. You’ve got this!
On the other hand, if you’re still job hunting, try not to stress. Finding the right fit can take time, and that’s okay. Just know that your consistent effort will pay off. Make sure you are setting aside time to search for jobs each day, you’re following up on applications, and you are networking when you can.
No matter what your next step looks like, use this season to grow—whether through volunteering, picking up a new hobby, or building a portfolio. The transition is just a part of your journey!
Quitting Does Not Equate to Failure
So often, people equate quitting with failure, but quitting your job doesn’t mean you have failed. One job doesn’t define your future—more opportunities are available, and one is going to be just right for you. This is all a part of your growth as a professional, so remember to stay respectful and don’t burn bridges on your way out. The way you leave matters just as much as why you leave. This job may not have been your dream job, but the right one is still out there. Keep going!
Not sure what’s next for your career? Check out College Raptor’s Career Finder tool! You can explore jobs that align with your interests and see real data on salaries, job outlook, and current openings.
