Revenge Quitting vs. Quitting Well: How You Leave Matters

Experts share tips on how to exit a job gracefully and protect your reputation.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 10:09am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With the job market in turmoil, some workers are considering 'revenge quitting' - leaving their jobs as disruptively as possible to hurt their employer. However, career coaches advise against this, warning that how you quit can have long-lasting impacts on your future prospects. Instead, they recommend having an honest discussion with your manager, documenting your work, and lining up your next move before departing in a calm and professional manner.

Why it matters

Revenge quitting can damage your professional reputation and close doors to future opportunities, even with the current hiring freeze. Taking the high road and leaving on good terms keeps your network intact and allows you to move forward in your career.

The details

Career coach John Crossman advises against dramatic 'revenge quitting' gestures like burning bridges. Instead, he recommends having an open conversation with your manager about your struggles, as they may be willing to address your concerns. Crossman also suggests using your final days to take on new challenges and make a positive impression. Proper documentation, a calm exit, and lining up your next move are key to preserving your reputation.

  • As of October 2026, you are more likely to get into Harvard than find a new job.

The players

John Crossman

CEO of Crossman Career Builders and a career coach who advises against dramatic 'revenge quitting' tactics.

Business Insider

A publication that has declared the current job market 'the big freeze,' where companies are not hiring or firing.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I had this visual of quitting my job, driving over a bridge, and then throwing a match, burning the bridge down, and giving double middle fingers.”

— John Crossman, CEO, Crossman Career Builders

“If people want to work with you in the future or recommend you, [quitting the wrong way] can have a long-lasting impact.”

— John Crossman, CEO, Crossman Career Builders

“I've had an employee quit, and then I, when I said, 'Why did you quit?' And they tell me all these things, right? Why? And I've responded with, ' Oh my gosh, 'I would've fixed every one of those,'”

— John Crossman, CEO, Crossman Career Builders

What’s next

Business Insider suggests asking yourself four key questions to determine if quitting is the right move: do I like what I'm doing? Am I having fun? Do I like the people I work with? Am I still learning? If three or more answers are 'no,' it may be time to seriously consider leaving.

The takeaway

While the job market is challenging, how you exit a role can have lasting impacts on your professional reputation and future opportunities. Experts advise against dramatic 'revenge quitting' and instead recommend an honest discussion with your manager, proper documentation, and a calm, professional departure to keep your network intact and your career moving forward.