12/02/2024

Here’s How to Talk to Your Boss about Considering Quitting Your Job

Warning: This can be risky

It seems counterintuitive, but when you’re thinking about quitting your job, your boss might be the best person to talk to — yes, your boss. After all, your boss knows your strengths, weaknesses, and your potential within the organization. An open conversation could lead to unexpected solutions. So, how do you decide whether to broach this topic? How do you frame the discussion? And how do you turn this possibly awkward and adversarial conversation into a productive dialogue?

What the Experts Say

Let’s be clear: It’s not always a good idea to tell your boss that you’re considering leaving your job, said Ravi Gajendran, chair of the global leadership and management department at Florida International University College of Business. “It’s often a very risky move,” he said.

Yet, in some situations, this conversation can benefit both you and the organization. If you’ve “carefully assessed your motivations and have a credible alternative” — such as an outside job offer — it could present an opportunity to address underlying issues or explore new opportunities within the company. The key is to approach the conversation strategically, according to Melody Wilding, a career coach and the author of the forthcoming book, Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge. “You’re trying to find an intersection that’s a triple win: a new role or responsibilities that are enjoyable and valuable for you, resonate with your boss and align with your organization’s goals,” she said. Here’s how to get there.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Harvard Business Review.