The decision to quit a job often causes anxiety about how future employers will perceive the choice. The question of whether quitting looks bad on a resume is common, but the answer is not a simple yes or no. It depends on several factors, including the reasons for leaving, the frequency of job changes, and how the departure is handled. Understanding these nuances is the first step toward navigating a career transition successfully.
The Evolving Perception of Quitting
The professional landscape has transformed, altering how employers view employees who decide to leave a role. A catalyst for this shift was the “Great Resignation,” a period when a record number of workers voluntarily left their jobs. This was driven by a collective reassessment of priorities, with a growing emphasis on work-life balance, mental health support, and fulfilling work. As a result, changing jobs has become more normalized and is no longer viewed with its former stigma.
This evolving perspective is noticeable among younger generations like Gen Z, who are more likely to change jobs in pursuit of growth over long-term loyalty. Many employers now recognize that strategic job changes can be a sign of ambition and a desire for continuous skill development. This cultural shift has forced companies to focus on creating positive work environments to retain talent, acknowledging that quitting is often a response to workplace shortcomings.
When Quitting Can Raise Red Flags
Despite the growing acceptance of job changes, certain patterns of quitting can still raise concerns for potential employers. These actions can signal a lack of commitment or reliability, leading them to question whether a candidate will stay long enough to justify the investment in hiring and training. They may perceive the individual as someone who moves on as soon as a challenge arises. The most common red flags include:
- Frequent job-hopping, which is having multiple positions that last less than a year.
- Leaving a job very shortly after starting, such as within the first few months, without a compelling reason.
- Quitting without providing adequate notice, which is typically two weeks, as this is considered unprofessional.
- Leaving on bad terms by being disruptive or negative during the exit process, which can damage your professional reputation.
- A history of leaving jobs without another one secured, as it may indicate impulsiveness.
Valid Reasons for Leaving a Job
While some quitting behaviors can be problematic, there are many valid reasons for leaving a job that employers are likely to understand and accept. This demonstrates ambition and a desire for professional growth, which are attractive qualities in a candidate. When an employee has hit a ceiling in their current role with no clear path for advancement, seeking a new position is a logical next step. Other widely accepted reasons include:
- Pursuing a better opportunity that offers greater responsibility, career advancement, or a significant salary increase.
- Escaping a toxic work environment characterized by poor leadership, a lack of respect, or unethical practices.
- Making a significant career change or pivoting into a new industry.
- Seeking a better work-life balance to improve overall well-being.
- Addressing personal circumstances, such as relocating for a partner’s job, health issues, or caring for a family member.
How to Resign Professionally
How you resign can significantly influence how your departure is perceived and the reference you receive in the future. The first step is to inform your direct manager of your decision before telling anyone else. Whenever possible, this conversation should happen in person or via a video call to convey respect and professionalism. Be prepared to state your decision and a firm end date, giving at least two weeks’ notice as is standard professional courtesy.
Following the conversation with your manager, you should submit a formal resignation letter. This letter does not need to be long or overly detailed; it should be a straightforward document that states your intention to leave and confirms your final day of employment. In the letter, it is good practice to express gratitude for the opportunity and experiences you gained. Offering to assist with the transition process is a part of resigning gracefully and can include finishing projects or helping to train your replacement.
During your notice period, it is important to remain engaged and productive. Continue to perform your duties to the best of your ability and maintain a positive attitude. This demonstrates your commitment to the company’s success even as you are preparing to leave. You may be asked to participate in an exit interview. This is an opportunity to provide constructive feedback, focusing on helpful insights rather than complaints to ensure you leave on good terms.
Explaining Your Departure in Future Interviews
When interviewing for a new position, you will be asked why you left your previous job. It is important to have a prepared, positive, and concise answer. The key is to be honest without being negative. Never bad-mouth a former employer, manager, or colleagues, as this can make you appear unprofessional and may lead the interviewer to wonder if you will speak about their company in the same way. Instead of focusing on what you disliked, frame your answer around what you are looking for in the future.
Focus on your desire for career growth, new challenges, or opportunities that align more closely with your long-term goals. For example, you could explain that you are seeking a role with more responsibility or one that allows you to utilize a specific skill set you want to develop. If you left due to a toxic environment, you can frame it as seeking a more positive and collaborative company culture. If the reason was personal, it is acceptable to state that you left to handle a personal matter that has since been resolved. Your goal is to reassure the interviewer that you are a motivated candidate making a positive career move.