When it’s time to go, it’s time to go. And it doesn’t have to always be on bad terms. You can —and should—resign with professionalism and your relationships still in tact. Some situations don’t allow for that, but many do, so check out these tips Brazen Careerists offers for you to bow out with grace and an expanded network to boot.
Give informal notice, then formal notice. Are you one of those people who relish giving their two weeks’ notice? (You do know to give two weeks’ notice, right? Take a deep breath. Instead of waltzing into the office and shoving your letter in the face of HR, show respect to your coworkers and direct supervisor by giving them a private head’s up about your decision. Surprises can be fun, but spare your teammates some drama (and shock) by sharing with them first.
Offer to help with the transition, but don’t expect a consulting gig. If your company suspects you’re leaving them in a lurch intentionally so that you can sell them on your consulting fees, it’s likely they won’t take you up on that offer. No one wants to feel blackmailed! Politely offer to provide transitional training, but leave the final decision in their hands. Play hard to get; if they want your expertise, they can have it, but you are fine with taking your hard-earned knowledge with you when you go.