How to Quit a Job Over Text: Examples and Samples for a Smooth Exit

Quitting a job can be an intimidating and nerve-wracking experience, especially if you’re unsure how to do it. Sometimes, you may be tempted to quit a job over text to avoid an awkward face-to-face conversation.

This article will explore how to quit a job over text, weighing the pros and cons and providing valuable tips on doing so professionally and respectfully.

When Is It Appropriate to Quit a Job Over Text?

Knowing when to quit a job over text is just as important as knowing how to do it. In general, quitting over text is considered less professional than doing so in person, via phone, or through a formal resignation letter. However, certain circumstances might warrant a resignation text message:

1. Part-time or seasonal jobs: If you’re working in a part-time or seasonal job, your employment agreement may be more informal, making a text message resignation acceptable.
2. Family emergencies or health issues: If you need to resign immediately due to a family emergency or health issue, a text message might be the quickest way to notify your employer.
3. Lack of personal relationship: A text message may be appropriate if you have little to no personal relationship with your boss and your job position is relatively low in the company hierarchy.
4. Toxic work environment: If you’re quitting due to a hostile or unsafe work environment, prioritizing your safety and well-being over a formal resignation process might be necessary.

It’s important to remember that quitting a job over text should be the exception, not the rule. In most cases, a face-to-face conversation or a formal resignation letter/email is the best way to professionally resign from your job.

Related: How To Tell Your Boss You Got Another Job Offer

The Pros and Cons of Quitting Your Job Over Text

While quitting a job over text can be convenient in certain situations, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before proceeding.

Pros:

• Quick and convenient: Texting allows you to quit immediately when in-person or formal methods aren’t feasible.
• Safety and well-being: In a toxic work environment, quitting over text might be the safest option to protect your mental and emotional health.
• Acceptable for certain jobs: For part-time or seasonal jobs, a text message resignation may be more appropriate due to the informal nature of the employment agreement.

Cons:

• Perceived as unprofessional: Quitting over text can leave a negative impression on your employer, potentially harming your professional reputation.
• No opportunity for discussion: Text messages don’t allow for a two-way conversation, making the resignation process less personal and more difficult.
• Risk of misunderstandings: Resigning via text can lead to miscommunication, as tone and intent are harder to convey in a written message.

Related: Signs You Should Quit Your Job Immediately

How to Quit a Job Over Text: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and decided that quitting a job over text is the best course of action for your situation, follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition and maintain a good relationship with your employer:

1. Review Your Employment Contract or Agreement

Before resigning, reviewing your employment contract or agreement is crucial to understand any notice period requirements or specific terms related to quitting. Some companies may require a formal resignation letter or email instead of a text message.

2. Choose the Right Time

Timing is essential when quitting a job. Try to send your resignation text message during regular business hours when your boss is likely to be available. Avoid resigning during critical company events or busy periods.

3. Be Polite and Professional

When composing your resignation text message, use polite and professional language. Thank your employer for the opportunity and express your gratitude for your experiences at the company.

4. Provide Adequate Notice

It’s common practice to give at least two weeks’ notice when resigning from a job. However, your employment contract may specify a different notice period. Make sure to adhere to these requirements when sending your resignation text message.

5. Offer to Assist in the Transition

Offering to help with the transition process can leave a good impression and demonstrate your professionalism. In your text, mention your willingness to help train a replacement or tie up loose ends before your last day.

6. Follow Up With a Formal Resignation Letter or Email

After sending your resignation text message, it’s essential to follow up with a formal resignation letter or email, as your company or future employers may require this for documentation purposes. Include your notice period and last day of work in the formal resignation.

Sample Resignation Text Messages

Here are some text examples to help you craft a professional resignation message:

“Dear [Boss’s Name], I regret to inform you that I have decided to resign from my position at [Company Name] due to personal reasons. My last day will be [Resignation Date]. I am willing to help with the transition process as needed. Thank you for the opportunities and experiences I’ve had during my time here. Sincerely, [Your Name]“

“Hi [Boss’s Name], I hope you’re well. Unfortunately, due to a family emergency, I need to resign from my job at [Company Name]. My last day will be [Resignation Date]. I apologize for the short notice, but I’m available to assist with any necessary handover tasks.Best regards, [Your Name]

“[Boss’s Name], I wanted to let you know that I’ve been offered a new job opportunity that I’ve decided to pursue. As a result, I need to resign from my position at [Company Name]. My final day will be [Resignation Date]. I’m committed to making this transition as smooth as possible, so please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help. Thank you for your understanding, [Your Name]“

“Dear Mr. [Boss’s Last Name], I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to inform you of my decision to resign from my position at [Company Name], effective [Resignation Date]. I appreciate the opportunities and experiences I’ve had here and will do my best to ensure a smooth transition. Thank you.“

Formal Resignation Email Example:

“Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Dear Mr./Ms. [Boss’s Last Name],

I hope this email finds you well. As discussed in my previous text message, I am writing to formally resign from my position at [Company Name], effective [Resignation Date]. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have had during my time with the company.

Per my employment agreement, I will provide a [notice period] notice, with my last day being [Last Day]. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am available to assist with training my replacement or completing any outstanding tasks.

Thank you once again for your understanding and support. I wish [Company Name] continued success in the future.

Best regards,

[Your Name]”

Alternatives to Quitting a Job Over Text

While quitting a job over text might seem like a convenient option, it’s not always the most professional or respectful approach. Here are some alternatives to consider when resigning from your job:

Face-to-Face Conversation

A face-to-face conversation is typically the most professional and respectful way to quit a job. It allows you to express your gratitude, discuss your reasons for leaving, and answer any questions your boss may have. This method also provides an opportunity to maintain a good relationship with your employer, which can be beneficial for future references and networking.

Face-to-Face Conversation Example

When quitting your job through a face-to-face conversation, you might say something like:

"Hi [Boss's Name], I wanted to speak with you in person to let you know that I've decided to resign from my position at [Company Name]. I want to express my gratitude for the opportunities and experiences I've had here. My last day will be [Resignation Date]. If there's anything I can do to help with the transition, please let me know."

Formal Resignation Letter

A formal resignation letter is a traditional and widely accepted method of quitting a job. This written document allows you to clearly state your intention to resign, provide a resignation date, and thank your employer for the opportunity. A formal letter also gives you the chance to leave on good terms and maintain a professional image.

Formal Resignation Letter Example

When writing a formal resignation letter, your letter could look like this:

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]

[Employer's Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Employer's Name],

I am writing to formally resign from my position at [Company Name], effective [Resignation Date]. I have appreciated the opportunities and experiences I've had during my time here, and I am grateful for the support and guidance you've provided.

I will do my best to complete any outstanding tasks and ensure a smooth transition for my colleagues. Please let me know if there's anything else I can do to help during this time.

Thank you for your understanding, and I wish the company continued success in the future.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Formal Resignation Email

If you’re unable to meet with your boss in person or prefer a digital approach, a formal resignation email can be an appropriate alternative to a text message. An email lets you provide more detail and attach relevant documents, such as your employment agreement or a completed exit interview form. Like a formal letter, a resignation email should be polite, professional, and provide adequate notice.

Formal Resignation Email Example

When sending a formal resignation email, you could write something like this:

Subject: Resignation - [Your Name]

Dear [Employer's Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to inform you of my intention to resign from my position at [Company Name], effective [Resignation Date]. I have enjoyed my time here and am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have come my way.

I understand the importance of ensuring a smooth transition, and I am committed to assisting with any tasks or training needed during this time. Please let me know if there's anything else I can do to help.

Thank you for your understanding, and I wish you and the company continued success.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Related: How to Quit Your Job Immediately

Tips for a Smooth Resignation Process

Regardless of the method you choose to quit your job, follow these tips to ensure a smooth resignation process and maintain a positive relationship with your employer:

1. Give proper notice: As mentioned earlier, it’s standard practice to provide at least two weeks’ notice when resigning from a job. However, your employment contract may require a different notice period. Always adhere to these requirements to avoid potential legal issues or negative repercussions.
2. Be prepared for a counteroffer: Sometimes, your employer may persuade you to stay by offering more money, a promotion, or other incentives. Before resigning, consider how you would respond to a counteroffer and whether you would be willing to accept it.
3. Tie up loose ends: Before your last day, make sure to complete any outstanding tasks, projects, or assignments. This will help ensure a smooth transition for your team and leave a good impression on your employer.
4. Offer assistance with the transition: As mentioned earlier, offering to help with the transition process, such as training a replacement or documenting your work processes, can demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to the company.
5. Maintain a positive attitude: Regardless of your reasons for quitting, try to maintain a positive attitude during your remaining time at the company. This can help you leave on good terms and maintain a strong professional network.

Related: How To Decline a Job Offer You Have Already Accepted

Conclusion

While it’s possible to quit a job over text, it’s essential to consider the potential consequences and weigh your options carefully. By following the steps outlined in this article and maintaining professionalism and respect, you can navigate the resignation process and leave your job on good terms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)