10 (smart) ways to quit your job

At a time when the Australian job market is subdued and workers face the prospect of little or no payrise in the year ahead, its unsurprising that Aussies are looking around for something elsewhere.

But when they do find a new job, numerous departing employees are making the mistake of leaving on a sour note.

Instead, here are 10 smart ways that employees can quit their jobs and also ensure they don’t burn bridges at the same time.

Also read: Nine surprising jobs where Aussies can earn over $100k per year

Do it on a Friday

The best day of the week for employees to let their company know they are leaving is at the end of the week – and late in the afternoon on a Friday is even better.

Not only is the work environment usually more relaxed on a Friday afternoon, so the news will go down better, but giving in notice then taking the weekend off gives you the time to regroup before entering the final weeks of work.

Be prepared

The last thing you want to do is quit your job only to realize you aren’t legally allowed to work for the other employer.

Aussies should make sure they are prepared and are aware of the terms in their contract before announcing their departure.

Be professional to the end

While it might feel good to rubbish the company and/or your boss in an exit interview, its not always the best time to air any gripes.

Instead employees should think about how their exit will affect any future employment – after all, these are the people who are contacted when you need a reference for future positions.

Spread the word

One way to leave a company on good terms is to find out how they would prefer your co-workers to find out about the news.

Also read: 13 best work-from-home jobs

Provide reasons for leaving

Employers usually want to see their employees leaving because they’re moving to a better role or higher salary at another company.

However, if the move is down to a poor working environment, they might like to be aware so they can make the appropriate changes.

Give plenty of notice

Four weeks notice is standard and expected in most professions and the more time a departing employee can give, the better as it gives the company plenty of time for a smooth transition.

Don’t slack off

After giving notice of an impending departure, it is important for employees to keeping working hard and not coast for the remaining days.

By continuing to do your job until you exit the company it’ll leave no doubt in their mind that you are an exceptional employee.

Tell your direct boss first

Employees with a good relationship with their supervisor or line manager should let them know first before giving the company official notice.

This avoids anyone feeling blind sighted by a sudden act of resigning and they could even help plan a resignation better.

Also read: How to get rich this financial year

Give compliments

Employees should also start out a resignation with a positive compliment about the company or time working there, just to sweeten the conversation.

Leave notes

It is always smart for outgoing employees to leave handover notes for the successors on exactly what the job entails and any information they might need to know.

Doing so further shows professionalism.