Anonymous wrote:MB here.
Find another job first.
It's easier to find a job when you have one, easier to give notice when you are saying that you are moving to another position, and easier to manage concerns about references from your current employer while they are still your employer. (A prospective new employer will understand you not being able to provide your current employer's information more than they will understand if you no longer work for them.)
So find your next position and then give notice. Then you can just say how much you appreciated your time with them, but you have accepted another position that offers you XYZ.
You also then know that even if your current employers behave or react poorly that you will not be out of work for any extended period of time.
If at all possible do not give notice until you have another job lined up.
+1