People move jobs all the time; whether it be for career progression, to get out of a toxic environment or perhaps they just feel like they need a change. It’s natural and gone are the days when you are expected to stay at one company for your entire career.
Most people dread putting their notice in because human nature makes us want to avoid difficult conversations; they are unsure how their boss will react, if they will make it difficult for them, the anxiety of leaving something stable to step into the unknown.
It’s very rare that you can make putting your notice in enjoyable. However, you can make leaving a job a more positive experience if you do it the right way. If you’re stepping into the unknown for better career progression, why not leave the door open? You never know when your paths might cross again.
A lot of industries are much smaller than you think and people talk. You don’t want to burn bridges unnecessarily and you could leave a bitter taste, not just with your bosses but with your colleagues too. A lot of employers do not ask for references anymore as they can be unreliable. They often ask internally if anyone knows of you or has ever worked with you in the past so they can get a more honest reference from somebody that doesn’t need to ‘watch what they say’. If you hand your notice in poorly, it could come back to haunt you at a later stage. You are planning to get away from your current environment anyway; you’ve probably bitten your tongue for a while now so don’t ruin it at the last stage!
Do's:
The first thing you should do is write a letter of resignation so you have it ready. However, it is advised to speak with your boss personally before formally giving them your resignation.
Agree an end date based on your contractual notice period, any holiday due and expectations of your current and new employer. Notice periods can often be negotiated but it could depend on what you are working on, project lifecycles etc. You can ask to reduce your notice period but do not expect it.
Offer to help with the transition process: if you can help with the handover of your role to somebody else, help with training etc.
You may want to ask your boss if they would be happy to provide you a reference. You might not need one for your next role but you may need them in the future: ask for their permission.
Agree to do an exit interview if your boss asks you to – you may be honest in this interview but also keep it positive and offer solutions: don’t use this is an excuse to criticise your boss, your colleagues or the company. This is an opportunity to help your company try to improve for the future.
Remember to say goodbye to your colleagues on your last day and keep in touch with those you may want to. It’s always good to have a strong network around you.
Do not's:
Do not use your notice to vent negativity. You only have a few weeks to get through so if you feel the need to vent, do this to friends or family behind closed doors and not to your boss or colleagues.
Do not become a nuisance in the office. You might be out the door soon but you should distract other people who still want to work there as you try to pass the time.
Do not start turning up late or take unexpected absence.
Do not let your standards drop. You want to be remembered for the right reasons!
Use your notice period to finish off bits of projects that will make it easier for somebody to pick up your workload or to give a good handover to somebody that might be dealing with your projects. You want to make it as easy as possible and for people to think what a good job you have done.
Your letter of resignation should include:
The name of the manager your notice is addressed to
The company name and address
The date you officially put your notice in
Your intended final day of employment (use your notice period listed on your contract or a date agreed during a verbal conversation)
You may wish to write a couple of sentences about your reasons for leaving but this is not compulsory and remember to keep this positive
Thank the company for everything they have done for you and the support they may have given you during your time there and wish them well for the future
Your full name and signature
If you are struggling to write your letter, you can find templates online. Or just keep it very basic, it doesn’t need to be long.
Putting your notice in can be the most stressful part of your job search. However, manage the process correctly and act professionally and you can take away some of the anxiety and make it a more positive experience that leaves a good lasting impression of yourself!
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