"Don't use words like quitting or leaving when you tell your boss you're resigning, because they could make your boss feel like it's their fault you're vacating your position. Similarly, avoid phrases like “I've found a better opportunity” or “I've outgrown my position." Instead, let them down easy."
The best-case scenario—and honestly, the most common reaction—is that your boss will accept your resignation with understanding and sincere congratulations. Your manager will be happy to see that you're advancing your career and moving on to something bigger and better.
Depending on their emotional state at the time of your conversation, your manager may become immediately upset, or even furious that you are resigning. They may feel a sense of betrayal, as well as anxiety about how they will manage the workload without you.
To have the most privacy and allow you to quickly leave the office if things get contentious, emotional, or awkward, time your resignation for 5:00 or whenever your workday ends. Resigning on a Friday lets the dust settle and gives your boss time to think about a replacement plan.
It's okay to quit when we are, in essence, setting boundaries. For example when a person in a role or a process becomes “more work than they're worth,” it's a sure sign that it's time to quit the system or process.
Feeling guilty about leaving a job is a totally normal reaction. It shows how much you care about the people impacted by your decisions, and how much you're invested. That's a strong reflection of your values.
Time your resignation wisely. The best time to resign is at the end of the day, and on a Monday or Tuesday. The end of the day timing is for your benefit. Resigning at 5:00 p.m. allows you to have your resignation meeting, and then allow you to distance yourself from the potential discomfort by leaving the office.
Look Toward the Future
"Again, I'm sorry for leaving in the manner I did. I realize my error and want to make amends. I hope we can have a positive relationship in the future."
Assuming you manage your departure gracefully, you absolutely shouldn't feel guilty. But guilt is a natural feeling that many people have when leaving an employer, especially if the company's been great to you. And even though you shouldn't feel bad, our brains are great at coming up with reasons that you should.
Quiet quitting refers to doing the minimum requirements of one's job and putting in no more time, effort, or enthusiasm than absolutely necessary. As such, it is something of a misnomer, since the worker doesn't actually leave their position and continues to collect a salary.
Inform your manager of your decision. You don't have to be too blunt here, especially if you are genuinely sad to be leaving. For example, you could say something like “It is with regret, that I have decided to move on.” End on a note of gratitude and well-wishing.
You should give your two weeks' notice on a Friday. This isn't a rule that's set in stone, it's just a good way to ensure that your last day will be on a Friday. However, giving your notice on a Monday is also a common thing to do.
Give thanks for the opportunity and how it's helped you. But don't feel the need to over-explain. You can say something like: "I can't thank you enough for allowing me to grow my skills here, but, after much thought, I've decided it's time for me to move on.
Do address it to your manager – You don't need to address your resignation letter to the owner or CEO – addressing it to your line manager is fine as this is the person who will receive the letter and initiate your leaving process.
You don't necessarily need to provide details to your employer. For example, you can simply state that you are leaving for personal reasons or family reasons. You're not obligated to explain why you're moving on. In some cases, you may want to give a reason.
Honesty is usually the best policy, but when an interviewer asks why you're leaving your current job (or why you left your last job), it might not be the right time to give an unfiltered response.