I Quit! - How to Resign

First, the wrong way to resign:

I originally found this video awhile ago posted on another blog. It's a pretty hilarious video, great for a Friday afternoon. However, this is not the best way to notify your employer that you want to quit. So how do you let your employer know you want to quit? Here are some things to think about if you're considering submitting your resignation:

Deciding to actually quit your job can be a pretty heavy decision. Make sure you've weighed the pros and cons and decide why you're dissatisfied. Sometimes the grass isn't always greener on the other side and a talk with a supervisor might solve some of your angst. If that doesn't help your situation, it's time to look at your other options.

Do you want to change your career or just your job? A career change may require some backtracking and starting at an entry-level position until you get some experience and training. Are you willing to go back to school for training if need be? Are you able and willing to start at an entry level position to change careers? EmploymentGuide.com has great Career Education resources that you might what to check out. Do some research on what jobs are available to you with your skills set or with the career you'd like to migrate to. Job boards are a great place to start by reading job descriptions and requirements for the position or career you're looking for.

Think about whether you're able to quit right away. Not everyone is eligible for unemployment benefits. Do you have some savings to hold you over until you find other employment, or do you need to wait until you have secured another position?

Once you've decided when you want to quit, be sure to check your employment contract. If it states the amount of notice time you are required to give, abide by that timeframe. Otherwise, the standard amount of time is a 2 weeks notice. Even if you verbally give your notice, you'll want to write up a resignation letter as well. When you give verbal notification, emphasize how you have benefited from the company and that it is time for a change. The main point is to leave on good terms. Even if you had a bad experience, you may need a recommendation later from that employer. You may want to ask for a letter of recommendation at this point depending on your relationship with your supervisor. Sometimes it's easy to lose track of past employers, so requesting a letter now will help you keep track of your qualifications.

Finally, be sure to look into benefits such as sick time and 401K plans. Will you be compensated for unused vacation or sick leave time? How much of your 401K are you vested in?

It's a difficult decision to make. If you're going to quit, I don't recommend going about it the way the guy in the video did. While it's pretty funny, it probably won't do much for your future employment endeavors.