Posted Aug 22, 2022
The Dos and Don’ts of Handing in Your Notice – Here’s How to Leave on a Positive Note.
It’s time to say goodbye. You’ve been seeking pastures anew, but the daunting task of telling your current employer you wish to resign remains. It can be incredibly difficult moving away from a job, whether it’s removing some security or simply saying goodbye to your amazing co-workers. At the end of the day, it’s important you leave on a good foot and for the right reasons – so here’s our do’s and don’ts on handing in your notice.
The Do’s
Speak to Your Manager One-to-One
We understand it’s incredibly difficult to sit down in front of your seniors and tell them you’re moving on. By showing gratitude and offering an honest approach, take some time aside to inform them of your decision and offer assistance in planning how you can both move forward to ensure a smooth departure for everyone involved.
Give the Appropriate Amount of Notice
Ensure you have thoroughly checked your contract and have an understanding of the appropriate notice period required. 2 weeks tend to be the ballpark figure, however, it’s highly dependent on your role. If you’re not sure, your HR department or consultant will be able to guide you.
Have a Formal Resignation Letter Ready
Make HR’s life easier, and supply a formal letter providing the following information:
- Your contracted notice period
- Your proposed final day of employment
- A brief explanation of departure
- Provide thanks, and offer the opportunity to contact you for any further information
Keep Up to Good Work, Right Until the End
Continue being a team player, and complete your role until your very last day. Whether it’s providing support to your team or assisting with the onboarding of your replacement, ensure your work ethic doesn’t dip just because you are!
The Don’ts:
Start Gossiping
We completely understand you may have a personal relationship with some of your coworkers, but avoid gossiping and boasting about your next move – especially before discussing it with your boss. If it passes through the grapevine that you’re quitting, your departure mightn’t be a pleasant one.
Avoid Being Dishonest
It can be an incredibly intimidating situation, but don’t tell little white lies to escape the awkwardness! You don’t have to lay all your cards on the table, but being honest about your decision will help your employer understand and prevent any bad blood from forming further down the line.
Burn Bridges in Your Exit Interview
Exit interviews offer the opportunity to provide feedback on your experience with your current employer. We have good days, we have bad days – please do not let the bad days get the better of you!
It’s important the feedback you provide can assist your employer in making positive changes in the future, so don’t be afraid to offer some constructive criticism. There is a huge difference between constructive criticism and just having a big old moan, so ensure feedback is actionable and don’t let your emotions get on top of you.
Leave a Mess Behind You
We mean this both in terms of physical mess and mental mess for your remaining coworkers – please always ensure you leave things properly. Whether it’s clearing up files on your laptop to briefing team members properly, provide as much assistance as possible to ensure your departure is smooth for the remaining team. Sure, you don’t know what people say about you after you’re gone – but don’t partake in any activity that could make it negative!
If you feel like the time has come to say goodbye to your current role and find something new, browse the abundance of exciting opportunities on our website today or call us on +44 203 510 9454 where we’ll be more than happy to help
