The time has come to say goodbye, and it isn’t as easy as you thought it would be.

Anyone leaving a construction job knows that the uncertainty ahead can cause anxiety — a truth regardless of the reason you’re resigning. Whether you’re moving up to a better job or more pay, or you must move on for other reasons, uncertainty can gnaw away at you, leaving you with plenty of doubt going into your future.

This angst is natural, and lots of people experience it. You can, however, make the resignation process easier (for you and your soon-to-be former colleagues) by taking a few tips from construction recruiters.

Pro strategies for moving on

Having a plan for resigning can send you on the right path for your next job. Use these four strategies when you quit your construction job.

  • Turn in a proper notice of resignation. Too often, a construction employee will set down a tool or turn off their computer and walk out the door with no intention of returning. Even a verbal “I quit” is less desirable than a formal resignation. It’s best to have a face-to-face conversation with your immediate supervisor.
  • Write out your resignation. Your resignation letter should be brief and factual. This letter will become part of your personnel file, so tell the reader three crucial pieces of information:
  1. The reason for the letter
  2. How much you appreciate the experience with the company
  3. The effective date of resignation

Above all, maintain a civil and respectful tone in your writing. Do not send a text.

  • Maintain a respectful attitude toward your colleagues. You’ll likely need to tell some of your colleagues in person about your decision to leave, but be sure to inform others, too. It’s appropriate to say how much you’ve enjoyed working with the team or how much you’ve learned from them. Be sure that your message is consistent with the one sent to your supervisor.
  • Work hard. Now that you’ve made your decision to leave, you may be tempted to kick back a little. Don’t do it! Maintain a high level of professionalism during these last few days. Your colleagues and supervisor will remember this above all, and their perception could affect your recommendations.

How construction recruiters can facilitate your exit and arrival

You don’t have to weather a resignation on your own.

If you’re unhappy in your current construction role, talk to your construction recruiter as soon as possible. This liaison might be able to help you with what’s not working, or they could begin the search for your next job while you’re still employed. Shorter employment gaps can reduce emotional and financial stress.

Getting acclimated to your next construction job is easier if you work with a recruiter, too. Your recruiter will follow up with you in your new role to ensure that you’ve received the onboarding you need for success.