People hate to resign without another job lined up. Not just because employers prefer to hire people who are working, but also because it feels like failure. It seems as if you “couldn’t take it.” But there are times when it is very important to just let go.
When You Should Quit Your Job Without Having Another One Lined Up
If your health or your integrity is at stake.
June 09, 2017
Summary.
While it’s uncomfortable to resign without another opportunity lined up, there are two times when it’s important to just let go: 1) When you believe something illegal or unethical is going on at work and you are concerned it will reflect badly on you, and 2) When your current job is negatively affecting your health and your life outside of work. Before you quit, however, you should put together a plan that includes when and how you are going to resign, whom you are going to use as references, and, most importantly, what you are going to say about why you are resigning.
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Career Management Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Career Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
What's your next career move? Learn how to set yourself up for success.