Ask: Is this fixable with a new manager? Different team? Or is it the company/industry fundamentally wrong for me? Stay if you're 80% happy. Leave if you're under 60% and see no path up. Leaving when you're burning out costs you.

Frame it as growth-seeking, not escape-seeking. Say 'I'm excited to focus on X' rather than 'This place was toxic.' Practice your pitch until it feels natural. Never badmouth your current employer—the world is small.

Update your resume while you're still at the company—it's faster to remember your wins. Use the '% improvement' or '$X revenue' format for impact. LinkedIn should be current and professional. Ask for recommendations before you leave.

Look for 'people you know' at target companies. Warm intros through LinkedIn or mutual connections beat cold applications 10x. Start networking 3-4 months before you plan to leave—it buys time and options.