Quitting your job can be a big decision to make and the latest research from the UK’s leading independent job board, CV-Library, has found that two thirds (66.7%) of workers find it a difficult thing to do, with a further 42% stating that they felt nervous about quitting.

The survey of 1,000 UK workers explored why professionals chose to leave their roles, with respondents citing the following as their top reasons:

1. A better opportunity came along (52.1%)

2. I didn’t get on with my boss (13.9%)

3. I went travelling/took some time out (6.6%)

4. I was no longer satisfied with the job or working environment (5.8%)

5. I left to study (4.4%)

Quitting a job can be uncomfortable, even if you’re leaving on good terms. Yet it’s clear that many UK professionals have not received the right guidance or education when it comes to this very important part of working life. However it’s positive to learn that despite being nervous, the majority of workers would arrange to meet their boss in person to discuss their departure. However, it appears that some would still prefer to take an easier route out, quitting over the phone or via email.

We also asked respondents to share with us their most scandalous ways they’ve quit, and why they chose to do so.

1. Esther from Winchester said: I once quit my job in a fit of rage by writing my notice on a receipt and leaving it for my boss - which I later regretted.

2. Ryan from Staines said: I handed my boss my resignation and told her I couldn't work with her anymore, as she was a bully. I did try and keep it private but walls have ears and other members of staff applauded me as I left the office.

3. Sam from Kent said: I spoke to my manager about leaving before my full notice period was up. He started ranting saying that it was inconvenient and he was not willing to compromise. So I gave him the keys to my company car, asked a colleague for a lift home and left the building there and then!

4. James from Newport said: I called in to cancel a shift saying I was sick so I could go to a huge football match. Unfortunately I was caught on TV, and when I returned to work my boss started shouting at me. I walked out mid telling-off and never went back.

5. Clare from Bournemouth said: I gave my boss a letter stating that I was leaving, and that she seriously should consider doing the same because she was an awful person who had no place working in support.

6. Jane from Wokingham said: The staff at my last job were really unprofessional so I hid a camera in the office and recorded them. I then threatened to send the footage to the head office. Needless to say no one was too upset when I quit and walked out.

7. Tom from Norwich said: I had a huge argument with my boss because I didn't like the way he did things. He told me if I felt like that I should leave, so I told him I agreed with him for once and left immediately.

8. Matthew from Swansea said: I phoned my boss to say I couldn’t make it in for my evening shift. He replied “if you don’t show up tonight there will be serious consequences”. Instead of going in I took the next week off as holiday and then handed in my notice.

9. Raani from Farnborough said: My boss always took advantage of me and so one day when I had use of his company car I drove into the middle of the city and parked it in a random spot. I walked back to the office, handed him the keys and quit without telling him its location.

10. Edward from Glasgow said: When I quit my first job I was so nervous I got my mum to call up for me! They had refused my request for a holiday (one which I had already booked) so she rang up and left them a snotty voicemail.

It’s obvious that working life has its challenges and some end up making rash decisions as a result. But it’s important to remember that leaving abruptly can have negative implications for your career in the future; for example, you may need a reference to secure a new job.

For this reason it’s best to keep it professional at all times by handing in a formal resignation and working the full notice period.

If you’re experiencing problems at work, try to speak with your manager or someone in the HR department first – you may find that you can work it out without losing your job! Alternatively, if you think quitting is the right decision, seek guidance on the proper processes you need to follow, that way you can move on without burning any bridges.

To find out more about CV-Library, visit www.cv-library.co.uk