How to quit?

This is not a mistake. I wrote this entry long ago. Just waited a bit to post.

You are a good manager, you should plan for your job change. Like everything that can be planned, you need to know what you are trying to accomplish first. Are you bored? Are you looking for future growth? More money? More respect? What are you trying to accomplish? Think.

No one, with the possible exception of your current boss, should know. Keep everything under stealth. Perform as intensely as you always do. Don’t hint. Don’t “check out.” Don’t “cruise.” It is one thing to let people know that your morale is low. It is a completely different matter when people learned you are actually looking.

When you receive an offer, evaluate it against your objective. If you decide to accept, start designing your resignation. Yes, design it. Organize your records, list your duties, consider your successor, and backup your files. Is there anything your boss can do to keep you? If yes, list them and go talk to your boss. It is tempting and feels good, but don’t use your offer to negotiate.

Remember that both your current employer and the new one are critically important to your future success. You may come back to work for the same boss. They are your best and most influential references. You may be asked to work with them. You may do business with them later. So, don’t do anything that damages your current employer. It is not professional or ethical.

Draft a resignation letter. Keep to the key points. “I hereby resign. This is my last date. This is how to transition.” Don’t blame anyone. Don’t be angry. Don’t explain. Most importantly, don’t send. Keep it in the draft folder for at least 24 hours. Edit it at least twice.

Still don’t tell anyone at work. Not a soul.

Next go to your boss. Sit down. Close the door. Demand his attention. Resign clearly. “I resign. The last date will be…” You do owe him an explanation and some feedbacks. Stay positive. It is OK to vent, but don’t whine. Ask your boss what should be the next step. He should ask for your formal resignation. You go back and send him the letter you drafted.