Few other work conversations can send you spiraling through emotions like telling a boss you are quitting. You might be nervous, excited, or even sad.

But despite the difficult situation, quitting with grace is important. When you team up with a recruiter at Phyton, we not only advise the following tips, but coach you through the whole process. The key is to remember that although you’re quitting your current position, you should still preserve the relationships you have worked hard to build. Afterall, you never know how that network might help (or hurt) you in the future.

Respectfully quitting your job needs to happen in the right setting. A good rule of thumb is to tell your boss in person, over the phone, or on a video call as soon as possible. Sharing news like this via email or text may be taken the wrong way.

Request an in-person meeting.
You can maintain a strong professional relationship by first asking your employer to meet and discuss your resignation in person. Meeting in person is good professional etiquette that allows you to have a productive two-way dialogue in which you discuss your reasons for leaving and your plans to help facilitate a smooth transition. If you work remotely, request a private virtual meeting.

Outline your reasons
There are many reasons you may resign from your position, such as moving cities or seeking career growth elsewhere. When planning to leave a position, you should identify the specific reasons you’re quitting so that you can confidently approach your employer with a clear, thoughtful explanation.

If you are leaving to pursue other career opportunities, you can explain what you have learned with your employer that will benefit you as you enter a new job. If your reasons for leaving are related to your experience in the current job, you can discuss what you appreciate about the opportunity and clarify what professional needs another position may provide for you to thrive in the workplace.

Offering to Help with the transition
Once your boss has time to absorb the news, they will probably want to start looking for your replacement as soon as possible. Offering to help with the transition is considered good etiquette, even if it’s not required or needed. The gesture shows you’re mindful of how your decision will affect your team and are willing to help soften the blow.

There’s a chance your boss will try to talk you out of leaving, even going as far as offering a job promotion or promising a raise. While it’s a nice gesture, it puts you in a position of having to turn them down. A respectful way to do this is firmly but kindly remind them that you’ve already made your decision.

Having this talk is never easy, but our team at Phyton is equipped to help you navigate what could be an uncomfortable conversation and turn it into one that is positive and mutually beneficial for both sides. And once it’s done, that nervous feeling is going to be replaced by a wave of relief and happiness that the next great opportunity is just around the corner.