The latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that droves of tech pros continue to voluntarily quit their jobs.
Roughly 493,500 tech employees per month said sayonara to their current positions in the first two months of the second quarter (the latest data available). While that was a bit lower than the monthly average of 514,700 employees who left their jobs during the first quarter of the year, it was somewhat higher than the 444,700 employees who left every month during the second quarter of 2014.
Considering the overall unemployment rate for the technology sector stood at 2.1 percent in the second quarter, that high level of voluntary quits isn't surprising: If you're a tech pro with the right combination of experience and skills, chances are good that multiple employers want to speak with you about a gig. The low unemployment rate means that tech pros don't feel trapped in their current position by a bad economy—if they want to leave an unsatisfactory job, they can do so with comparatively little fear.
But there's a good way to quit a job. Even if you hate your current position, there's little sense in burning bridges: You never know when you might end up working for someone again. Instead of storming out, give two weeks' notice (at least), and don't use your remaining time to settle old scores or grudges with colleagues who might have done you wrong. Instead, make sure to wrap up lingering projects and settle outstanding issues—that way, you leave on good terms with as many people as possible.
If you're going to quit, it's also imperative to keep the rumor mill under control: You don't want your superiors to hear about your plans from someone else. Say nothing to anyone until you've submitted your resignation note to your boss. Make sure that note expresses gratitude for your service with the company, even if you're actually ambivalent about your time there.
While you don't have to reveal anything about your future plans—in fact, it might not be a great idea, at least until you've signed your contract with your new company—it behooves you to remain as honest and transparent as possible. Work to preserve your workplace relationships before you head out the door, and remember: The exit interview is not your time to vent your grievances.