I joined a club last semester and took on a board role for the upcoming year. I want to quit the club because the subject matter doesn’t interest me and there are better things I could be doing with my time. How do I quit without causing any bad blood despite taking on the role?
Write a polite letter of resignation to the club leader and sponsor.
Opt out ASAP in time for re-election. Depends on the group, but often they will be accepting of your decision. Talk it over with your board so they’re informed.
It is better to resign professionally (look at the by-laws and see if there is a method they prefer, e.g., by letter) than to just stop going.
^ Agreed. I am still peeved at a member of book club who got an officer position and then didn’t come once all year. I had an officer position, got shunted out to make room for the older people who wanted one, and then ONE NEVER CAME BACK.
Definitely resign as professionally as you can. Follow the bylaws as @bopper recommends, and also stick around long enough to provide a smooth transition for your replacement, whether the bylaws require that of you or not.
In the business world, providing a smooth transition enables you to leave a company with a lot of goodwill (and typically some strong recommendations from your superiors). This is a great opportunity to begin developing that habit.