If you are reading this article, you have most likely made up your mind to start over again in your existing career. Dread coming to work on Mondays? Sick of being treated unfairly in the office? Working on the same mundane tasks with no near advancements on sight? Or feel that it’s about time to get back on reigniting your passion once more? 

Though the grass may be greener on the other side, there’s no harm revisiting your reasons for leaving to ensure that you are doing the right thing. And if you are truly ready to open new doors, check if you got these aspects of quitting your job covered:

Do You Already Have Another Job Offer Waiting?

If you haven’t yet- hold your horses! Though it is okay not to have one after quitting, many have proven to experience heightened difficulties in securing another employment as it takes a while before they found one. Unless your existing bank account enables you to outlive your remaining unemployed days, start your job search before you throw in the towel.

Are You Ready to Tender Your Resignation Letter In?

Not quite convinced of your reasons for leaving? If it is necessary, go through them over again – was it due to job dissatisfactory, having to face unpleasant working environments, intolerable work stress, or wishing not to repeat the same job tasks within the next 10 years?

Once you are certain, muster up your courage and start preparing your resignation notice. But be reminded, once you tender – there’s no turning back! Not at least if you don’t want to look unprofessional should you experience a change of mind.

Have You Notified Your Boss?

At this point, you might be tempted to avoid confronting your employer for as long as you can. Keep your focus on what needs to be done. Schedule a private session with him or her and express your reasons diplomatically on your desire to quit. Stay professional and emphasize on the good such as how the company has benefited you. Discuss your proper notice period as it can vary from two weeks up to three months – depending on what has been agreed upon within your contract.

Did You Ask For A Recommendation Letter?

You simply do not burn bridges for this very particular reason. You may have excelled at your tasks or shown exceptional work ethics during your employment. Wouldn’t you want your prospective employers to discover that? If your relationship with your seniors isn’t terrible – why not get them to write you a recommendation letter? With these valuable credentials in hand, you don’t have to feel anxious about securing an offer- possibly even your next dream job.

Have You Prepared A Proper Handover?

Just because you are now counting down your days to “freedom” – it doesn’t mean you should slack off! Maintain your professionalism, continue to be an exemplary worker and fulfill your outstanding tasks till your last day. If your company has found a replacement, be gracious and offer your help during the transition period. You’ll want to leave on a lasting, positive note among your colleagues and bosses whom you can keep as your professional network for future use.

Are You Entitled For Any Other Remaining Employee Benefits?

You might not know this – you can be entitled to receive employee benefits upon leaving. Have you utilise your remaining annual leave days? What about your uncollected incentives? If unsure, always check with your HR department to confirm the exact details. Who knows- you can even claim health insurance, work compensation, leave encashment, gratuity benefits, allowances, pension schemes or even severance packages should you be wrongfully terminated.

Have You Returned The Company Property?

It is now time to clear your desk for the next owner! Keys, documents, virtual files, software or hardware access details, laptops, phones or anything else – remember to return these properties if they don’t belong to you! The last thing you want is to be held accountable for these items before you leave, and that is why you should keep them in good condition to be handed back.

And Finally, Have You Said A Proper Goodbye?

Whether it is a good or a bad one, take every experience you had during your employment as a lesson that you carry to your next job. Jobs are temporary but what matters most are the impacts and the legacies you left behind. Before you step out of the building, send them a farewell email to your colleagues and explain how you’re moving on to new ventures. Include your contact details on how they can keep in touch, even when you have started on your new job.

There you have it! If you have answered mostly yes, congratulations – you are on track for the next big thing. No matter how tough your circumstances may seem -you always have the option to stay or leave. You are the maker of your destiny and don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need to. 

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