Explaining why you’re quitting your job and taking a new role
Before you even begin your job search you should consider how you’re going to quit your job.
It’s likely that you’ll be asked justify your decision during job interviews, and of course when you finally tell your boss that you’re moving on.
Common mistakes that job seekers make include oversharing, displaying too much emotion (pain or anger) or telling a story that doesn’t seem to add up.
Coming up
In this article, I’m going to help you prepare an exit statement that will help you to explain your reasons for quitting your job.
It’s important to quit your job and move on in your career with as much goodwill as possible, whilst remaining confident in your decision.
How to create an exit statement that will help you quit your job
Let’s explore the keys to a great exit statement for quitting your job like a consummate and empowered professional.
Your exit statement should be positive
It’s in poor taste to talk badly about your boss and former employer when it comes to quitting your job (even if they really were awful!)
Nancy Segal of Solutions for the Workplace believes that last impressions are just as important as first. She suggests, “leaving with grace-this means finishing up any pending projects, leaving a status report and a contact information list, and giving the requisite two weeks’ notice (more if you’re an executive). Do not assume you’ll be allowed back once you have resigned.”
Your exit statement should be short
When you explain your reasons for quitting your job you do not need to give too many details. It can be tempting to overshare because we feel guilty or wrongly believe that we need to justify our reasons for quitting our job.
Your exit statement should stick to the facts
Do not indulge in speculation or get too personal. Less is more, a statement that sticks to the facts is more powerful than one laced with storytelling.
Your exit statement should be unemotional
Trust me, you don’t want to cry when you talk about leaving your former employer.
Similarly, you should avoid crying in front of your current employer, instead remain professional and leave a strong lasting impression.
3 exist statement scrips for when you quit your job
Exit script number one
The recent TSYS merger with Global Payments created a number of duplicate functions and positions.
Unfortunately, the Global Payments legal team was fully staffed and had extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions.
My team at TSYS was displaced. My expertise in corporate law falls within the employment space.
I started my career in talent acquisition before going to law school and feel passionate about building safe, inclusive workplaces.
I have a lot of experience managing union workers and I’m looking forward to working in a role where I can take full advantage of this experience.
Exit script number two
As a result of declining home sales, the realtor eliminated my marketing and social media position. I’m grateful for the 5-years that I had the role. I learned a lot about marketing to the high-end consumer and the importance of selling “lifestyle”.
I am looking forward to joining the marketing team of a luxury retailer where I can continue to build designer brands.
Exit script number three
Shortly after I was hired at Abbott, my boss was let go. My new boss had a very different way of managing. The person who hired me told me that he hired me based on passion, potential and integrity. I can say without a doubt I have all three.
My new boss came from a management consulting space and was used to having MBA-level talent. I put in long hours and was committed to learning, but ultimately, the job description had really changed and I was no longer a fit.
It’s unfortunate that my first job ended this way, but I now know what I am looking for in my next role. I obtained my Six Sigma certification and my PMP while working at Abbott. I enjoy managing projects and want to obtain a position as a project manager.
Conclusion
When it’s time to quit your job, it’s always a good idea to practice your exit statement.
You should try to run your completed resume and cover letter template by friends or business acquaintances who can give you objective feedback.