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How to quit a job professionally

Quit well by having the next step settled, telling your manager first and in person, giving the notice your contract or custom calls for, putting it in a short letter and handing over your work. How you leave decides whether your old employer is a good reference later, so keep it calm and specific.

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Before you resign

  • Have the new offer in writing, and wait for background checks and any contingencies to clear before you resign.
  • Read your offer letter and any employment agreement for notice periods, non-compete and non-solicit terms, and bonus or equity conditions.
  • Check when your bonus, vesting or retirement match pays out, and whether leaving earlier costs you.
  • Decide what you would say if offered a counteroffer.

The conversation

  • Ask for a short private meeting with your manager, in person or on video.
  • Say it plainly: “I have accepted another opportunity and my last day will be [date].”
  • Thank them for something real. Do not criticize.
  • Offer a handover plan and ask what they need from you.

Notice and handover

  • Two weeks is the custom. Some employers ask you to leave sooner, so be ready for that.
  • Write down what you own: projects, contacts, passwords you are allowed to share, files and next steps.
  • Keep working at your usual level. People remember the last weeks.

Money, benefits and records

  • Ask HR in writing for your last paycheck date and vacation payout. State law sets both.
  • Note when your health coverage ends, and what COBRA would cost if there is a gap.
  • Plan what to do with your 401(k): leave it, roll it to the new plan or to an IRA.
  • Keep copies of your performance reviews and accomplishments, as far as company rules allow.
  • Quitting without a job lined up usually removes unemployment benefits, so plan your money first.

The exit interview

Be honest and constructive and keep it short. Name one or two things that would help others, without turning it into a list of grievances. Your comments may be read later.

Frequently asked questions

How do I quit a job professionally?

Have the next job in writing, tell your manager in person, give the notice customary or required, send a short letter and hand over your work.

How do I tell my boss I am quitting?

Ask for a private meeting and say it plainly: you have accepted another opportunity and your last day is a given date. Thank them and offer to help with the transition.

Can I quit without notice?

In most U.S. jobs you can, since employment is at will, unless your contract says otherwise. It can cost you a reference, so give notice when you can.

Should I quit before I have a new job?

Only with a plan and savings to cover the search. Unemployment benefits are generally not available if you quit without good cause.

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