How to tell your boss you’re leaving

Two women having a serious conversation

If you have decided to take another job that offers better opportunities but you want to tell your boss without burning bridges then keep reading. There are a variety of steps you should take when leaving your job to make it easier for you and your line manager. The first thing you’ll want to do is to set up a meeting with your manager or supervisor one-on-one. This will give you the opportunity to tell them about your news without anyone else being involved. Below are some tips on how to tell your boss you’re leaving.

 

Be direct

Be direct and honest at the beginning of the conversation by letting your boss know your decision. They’ll appreciate your decisiveness and your honesty upfront. You don’t want to get to the end of the meeting and blurt it out.

 

Tell them your reasons

Make sure you communicate your reasons but be careful you don’t start ranting or being negative about your boss or the company. You can outline your reasons by letting them know it is the right decision for you and your career progression. Unless you can communicate a reason about the company in a positive way, keep it to yourself.

 

Express your appreciation

Make sure you tell your boss that you are grateful for the experience and opportunities your current role has given you. They’ll appreciate you acknowledging what the company has done for you!

Woman packing box after leaving her job

Provide your notice period

Make sure you provide your boss with the appropriate notice. This will help you stay on good terms with them and allow the business time to get someone to replace you. It will also give you time to tie  up any loose ends and hand over your tasks to someone else.

 

Help put together a transition plan

Help your boss to put a plan in place to make the process smooth for you and for them. This will help make your notice period easier as you will both know what is needed from one another.

 

These steps will help make the process easier for you and your current employer. It will ensure you leave the company on good terms instead of departing with incomplete tasks, and with no handover or guidance to assist your replacement.

 

If you’re thinking about leaving your job or are interested in a new career, you can browse and apply for jobs at s1jobs.