Quitting your job gracefully

Work through the list in order. Hide the notes when you know what to do.

1. Tell your manager first, in person

   Your manager shouldn't hear about it from a group chat or a colleague. A direct conversation, even if awkward, is the respectful way to do it.

2. Submit your resignation letter

   File it through your company's official process — a verbal conversation usually isn't enough to start the clock.

3. Check your contract for the notice period

   Notice periods are set by your contract — often 2–4 weeks, sometimes more for senior roles. Confirm the exact date of your last day.

4. Don't burn bridges

   Every industry is smaller than it looks. A good reference is worth more than one satisfying parting shot.

5. Decide in advance how you'll handle a counteroffer

   If they try to keep you with money or a promotion, having a decision ready beats an emotional reversal you'll regret later.

6. Write a handover document

   Tasks, statuses, contacts, access — all in one file. It saves you calls from your new job when something can't be found.

7. Retrieve personal files from your work laptop

   Photos, documents, notes — grab them before you hand the laptop back. There's no access to it afterward.

8. Log out and clear your personal accounts

   Personal email, messengers, cloud storage, saved browser passwords — none of it should stay on a device you're returning.

9. Save contacts of colleagues you'll want to keep

   Do this BEFORE your corporate email and chat access is cut — afterward there's no way to look up a number or personal email.

10. Ask HR which documents you'll receive

    The list varies by employer — final pay stub, tax forms, proof of employment. Confirm ahead of time what you need to collect.

11. Verify your unused vacation payout

    Payout for unused vacation days should be in your final paycheck — double-check the math yourself, payroll errors happen.

12. Reread your NDA and non-compete agreement

    Check what you can discuss about past projects at your new job and what stays confidential — not knowing the terms doesn't excuse breaking them.

13. Return equipment and access badges

    Laptop, badge, keys, corporate cards — check off the list from HR or IT so you're not chasing down a forgotten item after you've already left.

14. Update your resume now

    Your achievements and numbers are fresh right now — in six months you'll have forgotten half the details and metrics.

15. Update your LinkedIn and other profiles

    An accurate title and dates are the foundation for future recommendations and offers, which can arrive before you even start looking.

16. Approach the exit interview constructively

    Give useful feedback without drama or complaints — it's the last impression you leave with the company.

17. Say goodbye to the team on your last day

    In person or in a message — a warm goodbye keeps the door open for future projects and references.