17 signs your boss is about to quit

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It can be difficult to concentrate when your boss seems to have lost interest in their job, the company, and maybe even you.

"If you feel as if your manager has 'checked out,' it's a natural reaction to want to know why," says Lynn Taylor, a national workplace expert, leadership coach, and author of "Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant." "Now it's time to put the puzzle together to evaluate whether they may have one foot out the door."

She says if you suspect your boss is about to quit and you remain vigilant, the signs will become increasingly apparent. "The behaviors are far different if your manager is not performing to par and is trying to preempt termination, versus wanting to leave for greener pastures. But the common denominator, regardless of the reason for the impending departure, is a change in routine."

It's important to pay attention because your boss's job status can be linked to your own job security and affect your career — for better or worse.

Here are 17 signs your boss is about to jump ship:

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There are changes in patterns and behavior.

This is a noticeable theme among many of the signs that your boss is about to bolt, Taylor says. "Nothing is consistent with past behavior. Your boss used to be friendly, now they're in virtual lock-down. Your boss used to be Mr. Introvert, and now acts like he's just won the state lottery. They may become suddenly apathetic or very intense. Much depends on whether they must scramble for a new job — or are relieved they finally found a way out."

There's been a reorganization.

If your company has reorganized or downsized, your boss may quit because they see the writing on the wall, Taylor says. "They may leave before a layoff, or the event may exacerbate the fact that their job was already at risk."

You notice a shift in intensity.

If your boss feels comfortable about an impending new job, he or she is more likely to be lax about upcoming deadlines, she explains. 

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