The Best Way to Quit Your Tech Job

You’re ready to move on to a new tech job position and now it’s time to resign. You’ll want to do things properly to ensure a smooth transition. Follow these helpful tips to glide into a new position and a brighter future.

Don’t Quit Your Tech Job Unless You’re Certain

Do everything you can to make things work before you decide to resign. Ask for a raise, promotion, or changes in the workplace. If you don’t get what you want, then start your preparations. If you’re sitting on the fence, your employer may try to influence you, making it that much harder to leave even though it’s to your benefit.

Safeguard Your Finances

Generally, you’ll want a written job offer including salary details, benefits, perks, and your start date before you resign. Don’t rely on a verbal commitment, because it doesn’t protect your interests.

What If You Don’t Have Another Job?

Let’s face it, sometimes you just need to get out. If you’re overworked, underpaid, and stressed to your limits, you may need to leave to ensure your mental and physical well-being. Fortunately, there are ways you can still bring home the bacon even when you don’t have a new job lined up, and you can explore potential employers and positions too. Working with a recruiter is a great way to connect you with excellent job prospects. Recruiters know the tech market in your area and who’s hiring or planning to hire and often hear about work before employers post it. Project or temporary work is a good way to get your foot in the door and bridge your finances too. Recruiters also help you refine your resume, provide valuable advice on how to stand out from the competition and nail your interview, and can pinpoint crucial gaps in your skillset and connect you to appropriate training.

Time It Properly

Consider the financial implications of your end date. Sometimes just changing your last day by a week can make a considerable difference. Factors such as salary due, holiday days owed, and entitlement for bonuses and share options are important considerations. Also check your 401(k) options to avoid tax implications.

Resign Gracefully from Your Tech Job

Try not to lose your cool and mind what you say. Even if you dislike your job, your boss, or the company you don’t want to shout it out to others or on social media. The technology industry is very tight-knit and word travels quickly between managers. Spreading negativity can squash your chances of a good employment reference and reduce future opportunities. Stay positive and don’t brag about your new position either. This can lead to animosity from coworkers, especially if they’re dissatisfied with their job. Always give at least two weeks’ notice. If you work in a senior position or manage personnel, four weeks may be more appropriate.

Prepare Your Letter

Prepare an official resignation letter. Keep it short, thank them for the opportunity, and let them know that you’ve found a position that suits you and your career. While you might be eager to begin your new job, let them know that you’ll work with them in the interim to ensure a smooth transition.

Deliver Your Notice

Deliver the news to your direct supervisor in-person. Even if you don’t like your job, resigning via email or snail mail doesn’t demonstrate professionalism. Additionally, when you hand it to your boss, you’ll eliminate several scenarios. First, you can explain you’ve already created a transition plan to show you’re committed to your decision. Second, when you demonstrate considerable forethought and planning, they’re less likely to try to keep you on through a counteroffer. Finally, they’ll have fewer reasons to try to make you feel guilty. If they ask you why you’re leaving, provide general reasons such as a better work/life balance or opportunity. End the meeting cordially and ask for a written reference letter.

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If you’re looking for your next tech job position, Taurean Consulting Group can help. With over 25 years’ experience connecting IT specialists to quality employers, we’ll help you prepare, connect you to training, review your resume, and match you to the best jobs for your needs. Contact us and let us help you move forward on your career path.