Written by Marta Orlowska

Leaving a job can be like ending a relationship. Telling your boss you’re walking away can often feel like betrayal but it’s an integral party of moving up the career ladder. Here’s how to leave with your head high and your reputation still intact.

The Spark’s Gone - You both know the relationship is no longer working. Perhaps you’ve felt badly treated or overlooked. Be mature and succinct with your words. While your boss may not be supprised you’re handing in your notice, they may still be bitter.

What Not To Do - Don’t throw accusations or show any resentment - especially not in writing as this may come back to haunt you. A simple “”I feel it’s time to move on”" will do. If your company offer an exit interview same your criticism for then but make it constructive. A bitter talk about how awful your boss was will only make you look bad. Instead point out five problems you experienced and suggest ways in which it could be improved upon.

Don’t say “You’ve treated me badly”, instead say “There are other opportunities I want to pursue”.

It’s Not You It’s Me - To your colleagues you’re efficient polite and professional. To your friends and family you’re bored, fustrated and desperate for a career change. But how do you tell your boss you’ve outgrown them without being offensive? If you and your boss have a good relationship they should be able to see that this is what you need even if it’s not what they want. But be prepared for temptation. They may be so desperate to keep you they offer you a promotion or pay rise so be armed with at least three reasons why you can’t turn the new opportunity down so you aren’t swayed.

Don’t say “You’re not giving me what I need anymore”, instead say “”I need new challenges”.

I’ve Cheated On You - Moving to a direct competitor is awkward and telling your boss you’ve found someone else with better prospects is tricky. Make sure you tell them what a hard decision it’s been. A couple of lines of sentiment in your resignation letter like “”I’ve loved working with you and learnt so much from the experience,”" works well. In person you can add that you’re sure they had similar offers in their career and will understand why you felt you couldn’t turn it down. By appealing to their own ambition you’ll make them see it in a professional, rather than emotional way.

Don’t say “I’ve found someone better”, instead say “I’ll never forget what you’ve taught me”.

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About the Author

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