Thinking it’s the right time to quit your job, but not sure if it’s the best move? Sure, we’ll have bad days, but there’s an obvious difference between ordinary, occasional dissatisfaction and a genuine misery. If there’s a looming feeling that you need to explore other opportunities, here are 7 surefire signs that may reinforce your decision:
You’re miserable every morning. If just thinking about work make you stressed, unhappy and/or negative, it may be time to move on.
You aren’t being challenged. No one wants to fetch coffee and make copies for the rest of their life! Move onto a position that will tap into your skills and challenge you.
Your boss is a total #$&!@. If your boss reminds you of Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wear Prada, run!
Your health is suffering. No job is worth deteriorating health. If the stress if really starting to get to you, start exploring other opportunities.
You have poor work-life balance. If you’re spending less time with your family and friends or doing things you enjoy, it may be time to move onto a position that allows you to balance work and play.
Your job duties/responsibilities have increased, but your pay hasn’t. If your workload has doubled, but your pay hasn’t it’s definitely time to leave.
You’re experiencing sexual harassment, verbal abuse, or are aware of any illegal behavior. It’s never a good idea to stick around if you’re being bullied, sexually harassed, and/or are aware of any unsavory behavior.
No excuses – if these problems exist in your job, make a plan, conduct a search, and change jobs. Here are five ways to move on gracefully and professionally:
Keep hush. Your manager or superiors should be the first ones to know you’re leaving. Hopefully they’ll understand, but no matter what happens, always be humble and be sure not offend.
Write a resignation letter. Never quit via email, phone, or text. Sign and date three copies of this letter: one for your supervisor, one for HR, and one for your own records. Let them know how grateful you are to have had the opportunities and guidance they offered and provided you. Also be sure to let them know when your last day of work is, and why you’re leaving.
Give two weeks’ notice. Giving notice is standard when quitting or resigning. Be forewarned that your employer could ask you to leave immediately.
Return all company property. Don’t make the company chase you down to get their things back. Return any keys, documents, phones, or computer beforehand.
Prepare a goodbye email with your contact info. Also, get the contact info from anyone you wish to stay in contact with – you never know when these contacts will come in handy.
