Ask a Career Advisor: Should I Tell My Employer Where I’m Going When I Resign?

Starting a new job soon? Congratulations! Embarking on a new career path is exciting and rewarding, and even if the Great Resignation is over and the Great Stay may be upon us, keeping your eye on the job market and seeking opportunities that better align with your goals is smart.

If this move requires you to resign from another position first, however, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

When leaving your job, it’s important to do so on good terms to protect your network and reputation. It’s common knowledge that giving as much notice as possible and tying up loose ends is courteous and respectful, though you may be wondering: 

Do I have to disclose my new employer when resigning?

Do you have to disclose a reason for your resignation?

Is it okay to avoid telling your boss where your new job is?

Lori Cole, Certified Career Coach and Advisor with iHire, shared how she would recommend handling these sensitive topics. 

Should I Tell My Employer Where I’m Going When I Resign? 

The short answer: It’s up to you. 

“You aren’t legally obligated to tell your employer where you’re going next,” said Cole. “But, you should consider your relationship with your manager when deciding whether or not to share that information.” 

If you trust your boss and are confident that they have your best interest at heart, even if that means taking your career in another direction, you could tell them where you’re headed. You could say something brief, such as:

I will be joining ABC, Inc. as an entry-level software developer. I’ve had a growing interest in the tech industry lately, and I found an opportunity with an organization focused on the types of projects that really excite me and align with my new professional goals.

“If you don’t have a great relationship with your manager or are leaving due to a toxic work environment or other negative situation, the only thing you really need to tell them is when your last day will be,” said Cole. “If you have any concern about retaliation, you should not disclose your new employer when resigning.” 

How to Avoid Telling Your Boss Where Your New Job Is 

If you decide not to share where you’re going next, you should still be ready for your manager to ask the question anyway. 

“Be brief, tactful, and calm. Keep your response short and sweet and pivot to provide the details you are willing to share,” advised Cole.

For example, you could say:

I appreciate you asking, but I’m not willing to disclose that information. In my resignation letter, I’ve included my last day of employment with ACME, Inc. and my willingness to assist with ensuring the transition is as smooth as possible.

You may also want to consider holding off on updating your LinkedIn profile or other social media pages until you’ve officially been with your new employer for at least two weeks. It’s best to make sure you’re settled in with your new company and certain your new job is the right fit before announcing your career move to the world.

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Do You Have to Disclose a Reason for Your Resignation? 

While you don’t have to tell your boss where you’re going next, you could consider telling them why you’re quitting.  

“If your manager asks you to participate in an exit interview, you should do it,” suggested Cole. “They’ll appreciate any feedback you have. For example, if you’re resigning because your new employer values work-life balance and flexibility, you may inspire a culture change.”

You could mention something like this, for instance:

The ability to work remotely has become increasingly important to me in my career, as well as the option to set my own work schedule.

Also, be sure to express gratitude during your exit interview. As tempting as it may be to only air your grievances, don’t burn bridges – you never know which connections will benefit you in the future. 

Ready to make your move? Get even more advice on how to resign, and use our resignation letter template to ensure your bases are covered.