Leaving a toxic workplace

As much as you cling to the comfort of the familiar, the thought of returning to your workplace fills you with an even deeper sense of dread.

During your last, agonising breakdown in the office bathroom stall—a moment that suffocated your spirit—you vowed to yourself that you would never return to the cold, sterile stalls to cry again; it would be your last visit, yet once again here you are, the sense of dread is visceral and unshakeable.

The air is thick with unspoken threats and the chill of impending decisions, and the only way to escape the encroaching darkness is to step out into the unknown… It’s time to plan your exit strategy from a toxic workplace.  

Planning an exit strategy for leaving a toxic workplace involves careful consideration and deliberate action. Here are six steps to guide you through the process:

Assess your situation. Start by critically assessing your current work environment. Engage with a trusted friend or mentor outside the workplace to gain an unbiased perspective, or consider journaling your thoughts. This process should go beyond mere venting; it's about pinpointing the specific elements of toxicity—be it ineffective management, insufficient support, or unhealthy conditions.

Document these issues meticulously and evaluate their impact on your well-being and career development. A clear understanding of the full extent of these problems will empower you to make a well-informed decision about your next steps.

Clarify your goals.  Define what you want to achieve by leaving your current job.  It's important to know what you want to move towards. Giving yourself clarity on your desired outcome provides you with a clear framework on how you will effectively carry out your next steps.

This could include finding a healthier work environment, pursuing better career opportunities, or achieving a better work-life balance. Setting clear goals will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the exit process.

Set a date. Establish a clear exit date based on your unique situation—whether it’s two weeks, a year, or longer. When determining your timeline, factor in your financial obligations, pending project deadlines, the time needed to train a replacement, and the job search duration.

Once you’ve set this date, commit to it without hesitation. Reflect on past instances when you deviated from your plans and how that prolonged your exposure to a toxic environment. Stay resolute! Your well-being and future growth are on the line. 

Update your CV and LinkedIn profile. Revamp your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills, accomplishments, and career aspirations. Tailor these documents to align with the roles and industries you are targeting. For example, if you’ve recently completed a certification or led a successful project, make sure these are prominently featured.

In addition, I would recommend you start getting active on professional platforms by following and commenting on organisations you could see yourself working for and leaders you could see yourself working with. This preparation will position you effectively in the job market and increase your chances of landing a new opportunity.

Be vigorous on the job hunt. Continue your job search by researching potential employers and organisations within your industry that align with your goals. Incorporate industry-specific keywords into your job search to find relevant opportunities. Additionally, set up job alerts with these keywords to receive notifications about new job postings.

Let’s say you’re a software developer specialising in cybersecurity. Use keywords or industry jargon like “network security” or “ethical hacking” when searching for jobs. Set up alerts on your gmail and platforms like LinkedIn, Ajira, and Tanzajob. Leverage professional networks discreetly to explore your options for positions that align with your career goals and values.

Discretion is a must since you may want to avoid alerting your current employer. And as a bonus tip, I would recommend sending cover letters and your CV to organisations that have not listed vacancies to open doors to opportunities that aren’t advertised publicly, allowing you to tap into hidden job markets.

Resign with dignity. Plan your departure from your current job carefully and with grace. Draft a resignation letter when you are in a peaceful or neutral state of mind so that your message is clear, respectful, and free from any emotional biases. Determine the appropriate notice period based on your employment contract.

Consider how you will communicate your decision to your employer and plan for a smooth transition. Ensure you complete any ongoing projects and prepare to hand over your responsibilities.

The reason you are quitting may be due to a toxic work culture; however, that should not prevent you from being professional. Keep your professional brand intact and leave on the best terms possible. 

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