Thinking of quitting after being harassed?
Here are 6 ways to know if you're ready:
Sooo...the surefire quickest way to stop harassment is to quit your job. Sometimes, that makes it the right move. This checklist can help you figure out if it’s safe to quit now, or if there are steps you should take first to protect yourself. ❤️🩹🥹💙
1. You can afford to quit
Money matters. If you have savings, another income, or someone who can support you while you look for new work, it’s safer to leave. If you don’t, it might make sense to line up something first so you’re not under financial stress after you go.
2. You have a new job lined up
It’s usually best to line up your next job before you quit. You’ll be in a stronger position to job hunt while you’re still employed, and it’ll make the transition smoother financially and emotionally.
3. Your new job is not a step down
When you’re escaping harassment, it’s natural to grab the first offer that feels safe. But sometimes the new job ends up being a step backward – lower pay, fewer benefits, or just not a good fit. Before you accept, ask yourself if you’d take the new job under normal circumstances.
4. You’ve talked with a lawyer
Nobody ever wants to talk with a lawyer. But really, you should. A lawyer can help you figure out whether there's any way for you to get compensated for having to quit. If there's a way to get you money, they will help you do it. A first consultation is ordinarily free.
5. You’re not just walking into more harassment
Harassment rates are especially high in industries where most workers are men (like engineering or the military), or where it tends to be women serving or supporting men (like in restaurants or some caregiving work). Quitting your job won't help much if the next place is just as bad. If your goal is getting away from harassment entirely, in some circumstances that might mean leaving an entire industry.
6. You can’t stop thinking about quitting
Okay, this isn't a sign that quitting is safe. But what it's telling you is that staying isn't safe either. The damage harassment does can creep up slowly over time, and if you can't stop thinking about quitting, that's your brain telling you to get out. Maybe even if you aren't 100% ready.
