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​Just like a romantic breakup, when the time comes to make a move from your current role, it must be done with style, class and respect. This goes for whether you are in a contract or permanent position and should always be done tactfully and professionally. 

Here are some tips for how to take care of business when you are moving to a new business: 

• Act like a pro Always resign in a professional and courteous manner, and in a way that reinforces your professional image. Remember, these people will become your references and you never know who will be (or know) the hiring manager at your future dream job. 

• Communication is key Resign verbally to your manager first (preferably in person) and always write a formal letter of resignation. Keep the conversation positive, professional and constructive when resigning. If your manager works in a different geographic location, make a telephone/Skype appointment and then follow up with a brief email, attaching your resignation letter.

• Give thanks where it’s due When resigning, thank your manager for the opportunity and experience you gained with their organisation.

• Keep cool Make sure you know exactly what you are going to say and the reason for your leaving. It is also good to know in advance how you will explain your departure to other managers and colleagues – whatever reasons you provide, your story needs to be consistent and remember to keep your reasons positive, not negative. 

• Make a date Be sure to include your finish date. Know your minimum notice period and be as flexible as you can to ensure you aren’t leaving any major work/projects/assignments incomplete while maintaining commitments to your new employer. You want to be remembered for your achievements in the role – not leaving your team in the lurch.

• Leave your legacy Determine a transition plan for your responsibilities and any unfinished projects. Leave detailed progress reports to hand over to your manager or colleagues. Create a list with your recommendations on how your work can be shifted to others in the department until your position is filled or if possible, volunteer to train or work with your replacement to show them the ropes. 

• Prepare to be courted (just in case) Make sure to let them know your decision is final and there is nothing they can do to keep you. But, on the off chance, you do need to consider how you’ll handle the situation if your boss does make a counteroffer to entice you to stay – we’ll be talking about this more later this month so stay tuned

• Leave in style Finally, many companies these days conduct ‘exit interviews’ as part of the resignation process. Maintain your professionalism remember to leave on a high not – leave out any petty remarks or things that are not constructive.

So there you have it! You’re ready to break up with your boss in the most amicable way possible. Don’t forget to keep in touch with them via professional networking sites. After all, we all want to ‘stay friends’, right?