Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
The last couple months of the year, people often start thinking about their goals. One of the goals might be to find a new job. Even if someone is currently following the trend of “job hugging” where they’re staying in their current job for security and stability, the rule has always been the best time to look for a job is when you have one. So, planning a move when you’re still employed makes sense. Because the last thing someone wants is to be so fed up with their current work situation that they just start applying everywhere in the hopes that they’ll find something – anything – better than what they have.
That can create job seeker regret. Especially if someone handles their resignation poorly. Even if the organization is toxic and your manager is terrible, it’s important to resign the right way. You can still be honest and authentic. Remember – you’re initiating the resignation. So, think through how you want it to happen. Here are ten things to consider:
- Give proper notice. Whatever your company says is proper notice (i.e., two weeks, three weeks, a month), give it. Your new employer should not ask you not to give proper notice. They would expect you to give them proper notice if you left them, so provide the same courtesy to your current employer.
- Think about the reason you’re going to share. There are lots of reasons a person resigns. It could be pay, benefits, the organization, your manager, the commute, etc. The organization is going to ask you for a reason, so be strategic and think about the top 1-2 points you are comfortable communicating.
- Write a resignation letter. At some point, the organization will expect formal documentation that you’re resigning. It’s possible to give verbal notice then follow-up with a letter. Resignation letters do not have to be long, and they do not have to contain specific details.
- Be prepared to leave. Some organizations will ask people in highly competitive roles to leave the day they give notice (common example: sales representatives). It’s not personal, they ask it of everyone. Chances are you have already witnessed this around the workplace. If you’re in one of those roles, be prepared.
- Don’t expect a counter-offer. It’s possible (but highly unlikely) that your organization will beg you to stay and give you a counteroffer. There is a plethora of reasons why organizations shouldn’t give counteroffers and why you shouldn’t accept one. The best strategy is not to expect one.
- Find out about benefits and final paychecks. While you’re working out your notice, find out about final pay checks and expenses, 401(k) plans, and health insurance (COBRA). Many HR departments have some sort of FAQ that they provide exiting employees with this information.
- Participate in an exit interview. If the organization asks you to do an exit interview, do it. But this is where #2 is important. Know what you’re going to say about your work experience, your manager, and the organization. There’s a way to be truthful without creating animosity.
- Help your replacement. If the organization hires your replacement (or designates a couple of co-workers to handle your work), be helpful and show them what needs to be done. They will not be like you and do things like you. But remember, you’re leaving. You’ve done a good job, and you should want them to be successful.
- Return all company property. I know this seems obvious, but I’ve seen exiting employees use this to retaliate at the organization or their manager. If you have computer or phone equipment, return it in good condition. Make sure that the organization gets any keys or badges. If you have concerns about the organization claiming you didn’t return something, ask for a receipt.
- Keep the door open to return. Even if you’re angry with your employer, there could be a great opportunity that you’d be perfect for that doesn’t involve your current manager or co-workers.
Resigning can be an exciting and stressful time. You’re trying to wrap up things at one job and start another. Resigning the right way allows you to focus on your new opportunity. It also sends the message to your co-workers and the rest of the organization that you wish them well. That’s the message you want to send when you’re planning your exit.
Image captured by Sharlyn Lauby while exploring the streets of Chicago, IL
The post Planning Your Exit: 10 Steps for Properly Resigning from Your Job appeared first on hr bartender.
