about 2 months ago
Good endings make for good beginnings…
You’ve just landed your dream job, you’re on cloud nine and you’ve got confirmation of the offer in writing. Now all you need to do is hand in your notice to your current employer. Easy, right? Well, not always. In fact, it can prove a pretty daunting task. But it is a crucial step in your career path and it’s important to do it with poise, professionalism, and a personal touch.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and come out on top:
The Five Ps:
1) Prepare: check your contract for your current company’s protocol on handing in notice. Are there any conditions in your contract e.g. non-compete clauses. Also, check how long your notice period is and what remaining holiday allowance you have (you might be able to shorten your notice using holidays owed), so you can establish your last working day.
2) Private meeting: request a face-to-face meeting with your line manager to discuss your resignation. Avoid using email as the primary means of communication – so affording respect and consideration to your manager and the organisation. Don’t be too nervous, remember your manager has been in the same position and would have given an employer notice before so knows what it’s like. After the meeting, follow up with your resignation letter/email.
3) Put it in writing: prepare a courteous and respectful resignation letter, thanking the organisation for the opportunity. It’s at this stage that working with a recruiter can pay dividends as they can guide you on the best way to write the letter, handle any nuances regarding your notice as well as determine the best time to hand in your notice and handle any counter-offers, etc.
4) Professional handover period: offer support during the transition period and express your willingness to assist in the process, including training a replacement or finishing any remaining work etc.
5) Politeness pays: regardless of the reason for your departure, it’s essential to remain on good terms with your former employer: you never know when you might need a reference and you might just end up working with them again in the future!
Don’t burn your bridges, leave on a good note. After all, the world is a small place…..
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