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14How to Quit Your Current Job the Right Way

It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it.

—Benjamin Franklin

How you leave a job is just as important as how you come in. Quitting, no matter how artfully executed, is an act of rejection. Even though it's not malicious, it still feels bad for your employer and the colleagues you're leaving behind. Replacing you and covering the extra work your departure creates all fall into the category of “frustrating problems.” By doing everything you can to soften the blow, you're making an investment in your future. Here are the things to remember to have a successful and amicable separation.

Don't Quit Your Job Until You Have an Offer Letter in Writing

“The same day I got a verbal job offer, I gave my two weeks' notice to my current employer. Hours later, the new employer called back and said they were sorry, but they were having trouble getting my salary level approved by HR. It took four days to iron out, but when the offer letter came in, I was forced to take $5,000 less than we'd originally discussed. I felt like an idiot.”

—Employee who had already spent that $5,000 in her mind

No matter how confident you are that you're off to greener pastures, do not speak to anyone at your current job until you have these three things: the offer letter, the offer letter, and lastly, the offer letter.

It's great that you've talked to the hiring manager at your new potential place of employment ...