Work
How to tell your boss you’re quitting
You’re talking to Dana, your manager. You accepted a new job. It’s your Monday 1:1 with Dana. The goal: say you’re leaving and when your last day is, and stay kind but firm.
Your first line
“Dana, I wanted you to hear it from me first. I’ve accepted another job, and I’m resigning. My last day will be two weeks from today.”
Point first: the news and your last day go in the first breath. A long wind-up makes it sound like you’re still deciding.
What Dana might say, and what to say back
Dana: “Wow. Is there anything we can do to keep you?”
You: “Thank you, that means a lot. My mind’s made up, and I want to leave on good terms.”
Dana: “What if I talked to HR about a raise?”
You: “I appreciate that, but I’ve already said yes to them. My last day is still two weeks from today.”
Dana: “Could you stay through the end of the project?”
You: “I can’t move my date, but I’ll write up where everything stands and train whoever takes it over.”
Two things that trip people up
- Complaining about the job or the team on your way out.Thank her for one specific thing. Keep your reason short, or skip it.
- Moving your last day the moment she pushes.Repeat the same date calmly, and offer a solid handoff plan instead.
Now say it out loud
Reading the words isn’t the same as saying them. Practice this one with Dana pushing back like the real person would. Then your coach, Rae, fixes your exact words. The move to focus on: Point first.
Practice this one free3 free reps a day. No sign-up. Out loud or typed.