I have been in this situation a few times. I was offered a better job and/or higher salary elsewhere. How do you quit your job without destroying your relationships?
Many companies require employees to give two-week notice of resignation. But not all. A four-week notice was required by a company I worked for years. This request is excessive, and I have never heard of one like it since. There are also companies that will ask employees to quit as soon as they have received their resignation notice. This is regardless of the time frame offered by the employee. This is the case with my husband’s business. It is to protect the company, especially if the employee has sensitive information or the potential to financially harm the company by fraudulent sales. Although employees are not often seen as maliciously hurting a company, there are some companies that have this policy.
Although you are not required to notify your employer of your intention to resign before you leave, it’s a professional gesture. These are some things to remember when you’re resigning.
1. Requirement for Resignation Period
To find out if you have to notify your employer to receive certain payments when you leave, read your employee handbook. Although it is legal that you are entitled to any wages you earn, certain companies may require you to resign within a specified time frame in order to be eligible for additional payments.
2. Resignation Letter.
You should write a letter of resignation expressing gratitude for your time at the company, the support you have received in your professional career (if possible) and the date you will be leaving the company. This is usually 2 weeks.
3. Resign In Person.
If possible, hand your resignation notice in person to your HR Director or direct supervisor. Be sure to explain as fully as you can.
4. Take into consideration.
Do not be too anxious about getting out of the job. You’re currently waiting for your new job and are now considered a “short-timer”. Keep your cool and don’t act as if you don’t want to wait until your last day.
5. Pass Off Responsibilities.
Take the time to review all your responsibilities, tasks, or projects. Make sure you give all relevant information to the person/people who will handle those items after you leave. You will get better recommendations and the possibility of returning in the future.
6. Keep it positive
Never talk negatively about your time at the company, your boss, the company or your co-workers, even during the exit interview. It is possible that you will meet people you work with in the future. You’ll want their respect and to be viewed positively by them.
7. Professionalism.
Keep it professional with all. Do not criticize your coworker for being lazy or having annoying ways. This is not professional and will make you look bad in the eyes the others in your company.
If you find another job that suits your needs better, most companies (even the best ones) will accept you as a resignation notice. Most companies require at least two weeks notice before you can resign so that they can hire someone to fill your spot and/or give you time to transfer your responsibilities.
