B a quitter...

Quitting is quite contrary to the usual B-Life prescription, but sometimes it's necessary. Quiting without another job is even riskier, but you know when it's time to make a move. Here are a few tips to know when it's time to abandon ship, and how to set sail for the new phase of your career.

It might be time to quit when:
1. You aren't stimulated by ANY part of your job.
2. You have NO desire to grow into your boss's job.
3. You've been passed by for more than 3 promotions, without a convincing explanation.

Here are a few ways to quit effectively:
1. Figure out exactly WHY you're quitting and how to articulate those reasons.
2. Consider what VALUE you've gained from that job. (There has to be something!)
3. Figure out how to diplomatically convey items 1 and 2 to your boss, HR, and potential employers.
4. ALWAYS submit an official letter of resignation in person (don't just drop it in your boss's inbox).
5. Work with your boss to figure out the best way to close out/pass off your remaining assignments.
6. Create a turnover binder with pertinent contacts, time lines, and status on your existing projects.
7. Set up at least 10 minutes of face time with your boss (and your boss's boss, if possible) to thank them for the opportunity and wish them well.

Before you quit, you MUST do the following:
1. Save up at least 3 months of living expenses. You might think your dream job is around the corner, but it might be down the block, across the tracks and on the other side of the pond. Be prepared!
2. Find at least 2 people at your old job who will vouch for you and serve as references.
3. Print out at least 2 hard copies of your writing samples to demonstrate the types of projects you've worked on.
4. MORE IMPORTANTLY - Save several examples of your work to a thumb drive or email them to your personal account.
5. Delete any received or sent email messages that might be deemed as inappropriate. Although your job has the capacity to retrieve deleted mail, they probably won't unless they suspect they'll find something.
6. Make an HR contact you can follow-up with in the event that you have to track down a final paycheck, balance in your 401K or vacation day payout, etc.
7. Leave on good terms, say your goodbyes, and look at this experience as an opportunity to grow and get even closer to your dream job.