In today’s competitive job market, it is difficult to grow without switching jobs. For that reason, people rarely advance their career while employed at one company. In fact, job hopping has become the norm. This does not mean that loyalty is extinct. It just means that people are becoming more proactive in their career. So, if job hopping is so common and everyone does it, then why is it so difficult to tell your boss goodbye? 

The truth is that quitting your job is like dumping someone. If you decide to go through with it, you will have to risk hurting someone’s feelings. Here are some guidelines to help you through the grueling process.

Step 1: Write a Resignation Letter

Resignation letters are used for company records. They document the reason for leaving and the effective resignation date. Search for sample resignation letters online if you do not know how to write a resignation letter. Once you find a good resignation letter template, use it to create your letter. Try to be brief and professional and thank your employer for previous opportunities. Remember, you do not have to go into detail about your departure, and there is no need for criticism. Any harsh words you say in your letter can haunt you in the future.

Step 2: Give Advanced Notice

Be courteous and give your supervisor advanced notice. While some companies even have their own policies for giving notices, most follow a standard notice – between two to four weeks. However, every situation is different. Simply make sure that you allow enough time for your managers and colleagues to prepare for your departure.

Step 3: Finish Your Job

When you initially accepted the position you are about to leave, you promised to take on a certain role. Therefore, deliver what you promised. Bring your last projects to a good stopping point. Offer to document procedures specific to your role. Volunteer to train your replacement. Do not go AWOL during your last days. You will be compensated for all unused paid time off anyways.

Step 4: Stay Calm & Collected

Some companies require you to do an exit interview with your human resources department. Try to stay calm, collected and professional during this interview. It does not matter if you are leaving your job because you despise everyone in your team. No ones needs to know anything other than you received another offer. If you have some concerns you would like to raise, be careful with what you say. Now is not the time to create enemies. You never know who you will run into again.

Step 5: Prepare for an Early Exit

Once you announce that you have alternative plans, some supervisor may begin organizing your going away party. However, there are a few that might just push you out the door immediately. Always prepare for the worst. Prior to your resignation, you should remove all personal software and files from your computer. Take some of your belongings home. And, organize your desk. The last thing you want is for someone to go through your stuff and find embarrassing pictures from your Vegas vacation.

Step 6: Get Contacts

Do not leave without exchanging contact information with some of your colleagues and supervisors. Building a strong network can help you grow your career.

Quitting your job is not the end of the world. Your supervisor and colleagues may struggle a bit without you, but they will survive. Just follow the above six steps, and no one will resent your departure.