With so much emphasis on getting the job you want, switching careers and keeping the job you have…what about the importance of knowing how to resign?
It makes a huge difference and if you fail to understand that…see how long it takes to get a job when your previous employer is not at peace with your exit.
There are different ways in which we leave a job:
We may have another job lined up and we are giving our notice.We may be trying to escape and we just need to get out as quickly as possible.
We may be quitting in protest over some issue and we want to make a statement.
We may be leaving the job and don’t have a job to go to yet.
In any event we are sure to put our focus on the next new job and not the one we are leaving…and this could be a mistake.We need to remember that the way we leave a job is how we set the tone for the next stage of career development. If we leave a mess behind it will either follow us or it will catch up with us when we least expect it.
The most peaceful way of leaving a job is to do the following:Write a letter…sleep on it before submitting it.
Do not attempt to talk about why you are leaving if it is in a negative context.
Letters are better than impromptu verbal resignations.Always identify the positives you experienced at the company.Never use statements using words like “because, but, if..”
When you are resigning please be aware that even if you think the company won’t suffer if you leave..it is still an inconvenience for many. It is quite possible that it extends beyond simply covering your shift or workload.
It is expensive for a company to screen and process an employee as well as a large investment of time…be sensitive that individuals doing their job may have to shift their priorities and possibly alter their schedules to accommodate this new development. It is the wise and sensitive person that takes this into account.
When approaching the person you are giving your notice to remember that they (not you) are in control…angrily demanding to speak to someone about some hot button issue may get you an audience…but that’s all you will get. You will not get someone to cave into your demands or buy into your ultimatum…any time an employer wants to keep you...believe me…they will do it their way...not your way..and certainly not because you threatened to quit if you don’t get your way.
Once you identify the person to speak with you politely and vaguely request time to speak with them…this can be done via email or a visit to their office depending on the company culture. You say something like “ Excuse me, will you have time in the near future to review something?”
At times they may see you right away…be respectful, present the letter, offer 2 weeks notice or whatever they need….and listen to what they have to say…if you are angry then you are not ready…and whatever you do thank them and clearly identify the gifts your job gave you and what you appreciate about them. Talking about a better opportunity or better company is not a wise move. How to resign from a job written by Ken Bownes
