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Career·4 min read·Dec 03, 2025

How to quit well

Leaving a job is a design problem. Do it with as much care as you took accepting the offer — your future self will thank you.

Sofía Álvarez

Sofía Álvarez

People partner

Reading time
4 min
Word count
42
Sections
4
Level
Intermediate

Key takeaways

  • Skip the objective statement — recruiters don't read them anymore.
  • Lead every bullet with a measurable impact number, not a duty.
  • Two pages is fine if you've earned it; one page is a strong default.
  • Optimize for the human reader first, ATS parser second.

Quitting is a skill. Some people are shockingly bad at it, and it costs them their next role, their reputation, and sometimes their references.

Here's a step-by-step guide to leaving well — as a peer, as a leader, and as an IC.

Try it yourself

Skip the blank page — start with a proven template

Our resume builder starts you off with the exact structure hiring managers scan for. Free to try.

A good resume doesn't win the job — it wins the interview. Aim for the interview, not the applause.
— Sofía Álvarez, People partner
Takeaway
"Leaving a job is a design problem. Do it with as much care as you took accepting the offer — your future self will thank you."
Filed underCareerPeople

Frequently asked

Quick answers to common questions

  • 01

    How long should my resume be?

    One page if you have under 8 years of relevant experience. Two pages max otherwise — every extra line has to earn its place.

  • 02

    Do I still need a cover letter in 2026?

    Only when the role explicitly asks for one, or when you're changing industries and need to explain the story. Otherwise, skip it.

  • 03

    What about ATS keyword stuffing?

    Mirror the exact phrasing from the job description — but only where it's honest. Naked keyword lists at the bottom look like tricks.

  • 04

    Should I include a photo?

    In the US and UK: no. In parts of Europe, LATAM, and East Asia: often yes. Follow the local norm.

Sofía Álvarez

Sofía Álvarez

People partner

Writing about career for Joblo. Get in touch on any social channel — replies within 24 hours.