If you’re quitting, do it properly

If the money is there, people will come.

A new survey has found that 43 per cent of Canadians would change jobs if they were offered more money somewhere else. Staffing firm OfficeTeam also found that 45 per cent of men would do this, along with 39 per cent of women.

Other reasons for changing jobs include feeling bored (17 per cent) and lack of appreciation (11 per cent).

But it’s how you quit that may be the most important factor.

A George Costanza-esque exit would likely do damage to your career, according to 90 per cent of human resources managers.

For example, OfficeTeam suggests to not make a rash decision about leaving and instead carefully weigh the pros and cons of leaving the company. It’s a good idea to have another job lined up.

Other pieces of advice include:

• Don’t tell your boss last. Schedule a meeting with your manager to discuss your resignation before alerting coworkers. Try to give at least two weeks’ notice.
• Don’t leave others in the lurch. Tie up loose ends on projects and offer to help with the transition during your final days.
• Don’t burn your bridges. Thank colleagues and exchange contact information with those you’d like to keep in your network.
• Don’t walk before you talk. If an exit interview is offered, provide constructive feedback in a professional manner.

“When considering a job change, workers should first discuss any issues with their current manager, who may be able to offer things like additional incentives or development opportunities to help keep talented employees engaged and committed,” said Koula Vasilopoulos, a district president for OfficeTeam.

For those deciding to leave, Vasilopoulos stressed the importance of doing so on good terms.

“Departing on a high note helps maintain a positive professional reputation that will follow you as you progress in your career,” she said.