Quitting a job is a hard task sometimes, and a big decision, there is a lot to think about, a lot to consider, and a lot to give up on. Although quitting sometimes is a better decision it should never be done impulsively. As an employee, you have to plan, analyze and look for relevant signs that will be a reason to quit. In an article by Tara Siegel Bernard, a personal finance reporter for The New York Times, switching jobs is usually a reliable way to secure a meaningful raise, more rewarding work, or an improved work-life equilibrium, but rushing down that road could lead to poor decisions. Elias Mutabazi, a coach and lecturer, says that before quitting you should ask yourself a simple question, what is motivating you to quit, or what is the reason for quitting? “Asking yourself that question will help you realise if you have a valid reason to quit and it will also help you know why you want a change, and what is driving the urge for change. You need to observe all areas, observe the work you do daily, the relationship you have with your manager, boss, and colleagues and if you find out that there is where things are not going well then that should be your cue to quit,” he says. Mutabazi also adds that, after asking yourself such questions you need to know what you need to thrive if you quit. Is it a better working area? A better-paying job? Or a better team? Then make a plan, do research on where to relocate or of other careers you think are better. Ariane Uwababyeyi, a practicing leadership coach, says that also bills or a financial line have to be observed before quitting. “Quitting is also sacrificing a lot because you are going to quit something that was earning you an income regardless of the amount. That is why you have to consider how hard you will fall in a financial crisis when you quit. Do your calculations and if you are a person that values saving mind your expenses in the time that you are looking for another job, but if you don’t have savings you should maybe consider staying at the job for a while as you search for another one,” she says. Mutabazi adds to this by also saying that quitting should not be done without also trying to make changes where possible. “If you ask yourself those questions, and realise that a pay raise is a problem, why not try your chances to negotiate for a pay raise? Approach your Human Resource to have an honest discussion about your salary, outline reasons why you should be given a pay raise. But if they don’t understand your negotiation then you have a reason to quit,” he says. According to an article by Forbes Magazine, quitting your job will affect others in your life, so it’s critical that you have an honest conversation with your family first. Your spouse or children may need to help or at least participate in some of your cost-cutting plans and need to be involved from the beginning. The article also suggests that employees who’ve decided to quit consider their timing. Firstly, are you in the midst of the busiest season or working on a big project? You may want to honor your commitments so that your team isn’t left in a bind and you’re able to leave on good terms. And secondly, maximize the money, if you would like to get your quarterly bonus or holiday vacation, it might be smart to wait a few months, the article notes.
