Congratulations, you’ve done it! You landed a new job and can’t wait to get started. There’s just one little thing left to do – quit your current job. Working up the nerve to give your resignation can be tough, but before you decide to pack your things and sneak out the back door, remember that Hawaii is a small community, and the way you leave can have lasting effects on your professional reputation.

So, how do you gracefully and professionally bid farewell to your current employer? Consider these five steps for giving your two week notice and keeping your reputation intact.

Don’t start rumors

It may be tempting to tell your closest coworkers about your plans to leave, but avoid any gossip until you’ve informed your immediate supervisor. Your boss should always be the first to know about your decision to quit

Provide enough notice

Telling your boss that you’re quitting on the same day that you leave could create feelings of abandonment and resentment amongst your boss and soon to be ex-coworkers. Instead, plan to give your employer and coworkers some time to prepare for your departure. Two weeks of notice is standard, but consider up to a month if you are in a management role.

Prepare for an immediate departure

The reality of quitting your job is that your employer could decline your two week notice and ask you to leave immediately. Before you resign, get ready for this possibility. Have your belongings and documents on standby and be mentally prepared to stay calm and professional.

Give your notice in person

Schedule a face-to-face interview with your boss to discuss your departure. Never text, email, or even call your boss to deliver the news – it comes across as unprofessional. Stay calm as you give your resignation and come prepared with the reason for why you made this decision. Have a formal resignation letter ready that outlines your desired departure date as well as the projects on your plate that will need to be tied up or reassigned.

Work until the end

Like a senior close to graduation, you may want to switch on the cruise control and kick up your feet in the days leading up to your departure. Unfortunately, business doesn’t stop just because you are leaving. Maintaining good work ethic all the way through will be appreciated and duly noted by your boss and fellow coworkers.

With a little planning, giving your notice will not only seem less intimidating, it will also help you deliver the news in a graceful way and keep your professional reputation intact.