Is Resign the Same As Quit? Clearing up the Confusion
The terms ‘resign’ and ‘quit’ are often used interchangeably in conversations and can be confusing for individuals who are new to the term. However, the two terms have different meanings, and it is vital to understand the difference between resigning and quitting.
Resigning refers to the formal process of quitting a job, where an employee voluntarily gives up their employment position. On the other hand, quitting means leaving a job without giving any notice or not completing the expected term of employment.
Resigning is dignified and polite, and even in difficult circumstances, it’s still necessary to exit in the most professional way possible. Resigning typically involves writing a letter of resignation stating the reason for leaving the job, the effective date of resignation and thanking the employer for the experience.
There are different reasons why one may choose to resign from their employment position, including career growth, inadequate salary or benefits, relocation to a new place, focusing on one’s business, or even retirement. Whatever the reason(s) may be, resigning is the best option to take, as it does not burn bridges or leave a negative impression with your employer.
On the other hand, quitting, although an easy option, can be a major drawback on an employee’s career path. Quitting without giving notice can result in negative consequences, such as being blacklisted from future job opportunities or losing out on a paycheck.
An employer may also hold grudges against employees who quit without notice, which could negatively impact a potential future reference. Quitting also leaves a negative impression on the employer and colleagues, indicating that the employee did not respect the company’s policies and had no regard for the colleagues they worked with.
In summary, resigning is a positive method of quitting a job, while quitting is seen as a negative form of abrupt job termination. It is best to resign in good terms with your current employer rather than quit abruptly.
Now that we have covered the difference between quitting and resigning, it’s essential to understand when it is time to take these actions.
When is it Appropriate to Resign from a Job?
Resignation from a job is a big decision to make as it may impact you negatively or positively, depending on the situation. Here are some reasons why one may choose to tender their resignation:
1. Career growth
If you feel that your current job is not challenging enough or does not provide growth opportunities, it may be time to consider resigning. You may want to develop new skills, seek out more experience, or take on new challenges, all of which may not be possible in your current position.
2. Toxic workplace environment
If you are experiencing a toxic work environment, it may be time to resign. A toxic work environment can have physical and emotional impacts on an employee, which can negatively affect their productivity and overall work experience. Leaving a toxic work environment is not just necessary for your career growth but also for your mental and physical health.
3. Personal reasons
Resigning from a job can be due to personal reasons such as relocation or caring for a family member. It can be challenging to juggle a demanding job and personal commitments, and sometimes it’s better to resign and focus on personal matters.
When is it Appropriate to Quit?
Quitting a job should be a last resort option and should only be done when all other avenues have been exploited, and a tough decision must be made. Here are situations where quitting may be appropriate:
1. Unfavourable working conditions
If you are experiencing difficult working conditions that affect your mental or physical health, quitting may be an appropriate option. The situation may include harassment from colleagues, unsafe working conditions, or a lack of support from management.
2. Redundancy
If you’re in a situation where your job is expected to be terminated shortly or has already been terminated, there is no need to tender a resignation letter; simply move on and seek other available opportunities.
3. Disagreements with management
If you continually find yourself in conflict with your employer or management, despite attempts to resolve the issue, quitting maybe the best solution to avoid future conflict.
Conclusion
Resigning or quitting should not be taken lightly, and an individual must be aware of the negative and positive impacts of their decisions. By understanding the difference between the two, it is easier to make an informed decision of which path to take.
It is essential to maintain professionalism in the process of exiting a job, even under difficult circumstances. When resigning, ensure to thank your current employer for the experience and offer to assist with any necessary transition tasks. With quitting, ensure everything is done appropriately, and any necessary steps to be taken are followed. By following these procedures, an employee can exit a job honourably and move towards greater success in their future career.