Project Description

The pros and cons of leaving your current position have probably been playing on your mind for some time. Handing in your notice is a difficult task if you loved your job, and a weight lifted off your shoulder if you didn’t. Regardless of what lies ahead in your career, it’s silly to shoot yourself in the foot. Let’s take a look at some dos and don’ts for handing in your notice…

What you should do:

  • Double-check all of the conditions of your employment contract so you are aware of obligations, for example, the period of notice. These obligations should be respected
  • Make sure you hand over your letter of resignation in person. It is not polite to send emails or leave the letter on someone’s desk when handing in your notice
  • If you are asked for feedback, keep it constructive and factual, e.g. “I have gained great insight from this job, but I feel that I need more prospects.”. The conversation should always be polite and on track
  • If you have been good at your job and the company values you, you should receive a counteroffer. Be prepared for your employer to come back with offers to sway you
  • In some cases, you might be asked to leave the location straight away, so have your desk cleared out. If you are working for a handover period, do your best to make the experience a good one so that your successor has the best opportunity to learn the ropes
  • It’s possible you might stay in touch with some of your colleagues. They should be treated respectfully in case you need them in the future
  • Choose your references wisely and always ask permission before giving their contact information to a new employer

What you shouldn’t do:

  • If you aren’t looking for a break in your career, you should never hand in a letter of resignation without having a written job offer from your new employer
  • If you aren’t in a particularly good frame of mind, don’t hand in your notice. Things could get out of hand and you might say something that you’ll regret
  • Never speak badly of your employer on social media: it won’t help you to find employment in the future
  • You shouldn’t have to provide reasons for handing in your notice, so don’t feel pressured into doing so
  • Don’t leave your employer with an unprofessional image of yourself