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Johanna, 35 years old, asks: »I start every working day with a stomach ache, am exhausted and know that I no longer have a future with this employer. I have already sent some applications, but without success. Financially, I could afford to just quit and bridge a period. But doesn't it worsen my chances as an applicant? And what do new employers think when I've already quit? "
Dear Johanna,
When I read your question, I think less about how it might affect new employers if you quit without a new job.
Instead, I wonder how fit you are at the moment to cut a good figure as an applicant and to start a new job with all its challenges.
It's not about whether quitting without a new job is socially acceptable or what recruiters might think about it.
It is more important what is a healthy way for you personally to overcome the stressful situation, to recharge your batteries and to consciously decide on a suitable new employer.
When to quit is your personal decision
Quitting without a new job - is that advisable? For me there is no general right or wrong. Because a person's résumés, motivation to change, and personal work and life situations are far too individual to make this decision on the basis of “that's how you do it” advice.
Depending on the stress in the current job, the collegial environment, the management culture in a company, the personal, family and financial life situation as well as the target positions in question, a termination without a new job can be very productive for some.
For others, however, it may also be risky and even blocking them from changing jobs.
Find out what is a good time for you to give notice so that you can find a new employer at your own pace and with a clear head.
Your own clarity and mental strength are crucial
I often sit across from employees in coaching who cry at the slightest thought about their job. Because they are hurt, angry, sad, or simply exhausted and drained. They find it difficult to believe in a better future, let alone talk to me about concrete ideas for target positions. They are stuck in yesterday, looking for explanations and sometimes they would prefer to remain victims of circumstances instead of being the creators of their lives.
Such phases as the "valley of tears" may be part of a process of change before things start to look up again.
However, it is not expedient to send applications in such a weak panic and receive rejections.
Those who are somewhat strengthened and look out for suitable positions with a curious desire for the future will not only increase the invitation rate, but can also confidently enter into discussions with employers.
What is the best route to a new job for you?
If you are not ready, take the time to recharge your batteries. Is it enough to change your attitude, with which you can start your job differently from now on? Could it then rob you of less energy and give you the freedom to work on your professional future at the same time? Or will the change be easier or faster if you quit and leave the company?
Some workers thrive when they quit, are free and can concentrate on the application process. Others panic or find unemployment to be a major burden. For some, the free time between two jobs is good, for others the ceiling falls on their heads. So think less about how someone who quit without a new job might get them. Instead, clarify for yourself what is good for you in your current situation and what will have a positive effect on your strengths as an applicant.
After all, it is your own attitude that determines the light in which your resignation without a new job appears. It is neither extraordinarily brave nor a terrible misstep, but your personal decision. If you are at peace with this yourself, you will be able to convey this step calmly and confidently in cover letters and discussions with employers.
