Graceful Exit: How to Quit Your Part-Time Job

Part-time jobs help you gain experience and develop skills in a particular field. They’re also a good way to earn some pocket change while you pursue your degree. But have you ever thought about the best time to move on and how to quit a part-time job?

Knowing how to quit a part-time job allows you to move on to a better opportunity while maintaining a positive relationship with your previous employer. This blog will discuss how to leave your part-time job professionally. Read on to find out more!

Reasons to Quit a Part-Time Job

Although the National Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average turnaround for employees is 4.1 years, other factors may cause part-time workers to quit sooner. Typically, part-time workers quit for the following reasons: 

• Dissatisfaction. Employee dissatisfaction is a major issue, especially when a staggering 66% of employees quit their jobs due to poor company culture, unfulfilling job duties, or restrictive work schedules. If you are struggling with your manager, colleagues, or the actual work itself, it can lead to decreased efficiency and productivity at work.

• A full-time opportunity. In some cases, part-time workers may find a better opportunity with another company. For instance, a full-time position may provide you with better remuneration, benefits, and opportunities. 

• Returning to school. Many students work part-time during the summer season to save up some cash. Often, many part-time student workers quit in September when they return to their studies.

• Personal reasons. Other personal reasons may cause you to quit your job. You might want to concentrate on your mental health, get treatment for an illness, move to another city, find a low-stress job, start a family, or pursue other interests.

How Long Should You Stay at a Part-Time Job

When deciding how long you should stay at a part-time job, there are a few things to consider. First, it depends on why you are working part-time in the first place. If you’re working to gain more experience in a specific field, you will want to stay for a minimum of six months. The longer you are employed, the better it will reflect on your resume. If you apply for another position, employment with the same company for at least six months to a year could demonstrate your dedication and commitment to a future employer. 

On the other hand, if you’re working part-time to make extra money while attending school, you may only need to stay at the job for a few months. This will allow you to also gain experience, make some money, and move on when you have achieved your goals.

Finally, individuals searching for a full-time position should stay with their part-time job until they secure new employment. This will ensure you receive a steady income and retain job security while you search for a unique opportunity elsewhere. 

How Should You Quit a Part-Time Job in a Professional Way

Once you’ve decided to quit, it’s best to resign gracefully to avoid burning bridges. Leaving on good terms can affect your future career positively and even land a recommendation letter from your previous employer. Here are five steps on how to resign from a part-time job:

1. Request a Meeting With Your Manager

Even though it may be uncomfortable, having a one-on-one meeting with your manager is the most professional way of quitting a part-time job. During the meeting, let your supervisor know why you’re resigning and when your resignation will be effective. Additionally, ask if you can help finish any final projects or assignments. 

2. Provide Reasonable Notice

If you want to leave your part-time job, you’ll typically need to give your employer some warning. This is called your notice period. In most cases, the notice period will be stated in your employment contract and can be either two weeks or one month in advance.

However, if there is no such point in your contract, consider submitting a notice letter at least two weeks in advance. This gives you enough time to tie up loose ends on outstanding projects and allows your manager to begin the search for a replacement. Also, if your finances allow, you may choose to take some time off before starting another job to recharge.

For example, if your new opportunity starts on Sept. 1, one option is to work until Aug. 31. Alternatively, if you want to enjoy the last bits of summer, you can choose August 17th as your last day.

3. Write a Resignation Letter

Even if your manager has given you the green light, companies usually require you to write an official resignation letter.

In your letter, you should clearly state the reason for your resignation, as well as some additional information, including:

• Your full name and job title
• Your plans to leave the company
• The final date of employment
• Your signature

Most companies will also ask you to do an employee exit survey. During the exit survey meeting, you will mostly be asked to give feedback about the job, whether you would consider working for the company again in the future, or whether you recommend the company to prospective employees. Even if you leave the company because of a negative experience, remain professional and honest in your responses. Try to provide constructive criticism and suggest ways the company can improve. 

4. Ask for Recommendations

Knowing how to quit a part-time job professionally can also help you get a recommendation letter from your manager. During your final week, send an email asking if they would agree to write you a recommendation on LinkedIn or act as a reference. A reference can boost your CV and LinkedIn profile for future job searches, even if you’ve already found a new role.

5. Leave With Grace

Finally, make sure to step down from your position with gratitude and grace. No matter what you think about the company or your colleagues, work hard and keep your criticism to yourself during your last days. The biggest advantage of knowing how to quit a part-time job appropriately is to maintain a strong professional network for the future.

Sum Up

Quitting a part-time job can be difficult. The best way to politely quit your job involves talking one-on-one with your manager and explaining your future goals and objectives. Make sure to thank them for your experience and give them prior notice beforehand. Whatever the reason for your resignation, it’s important to leave a good impression on your colleagues and managers.