Let’s not sugar coat it, resigning from a job is not the highlight of anybody’s day. It’s uncharted territory and it can be unclear if there is a right or wrong way to do it. We are here to tell you there is a way to professionally give your resignation and still walk away with integrity.

  1. Establish Notice

First things first, you should review your handbook to determine your company’s policy on the length of notice required. For example, in a majority of healthcare positions, a 4-week notice is required, whereas some positions may only require a 2-week notice. Be sure to have a plan along with a projected end date to eliminate the possibility of miscommunication. Giving proper notice is not a step worth skipping. It is encouraged for you to give proper notice because what you do for one you will almost definitely do for the other. Do not fall into the pressure of making an upcoming employer happy by abruptly leaving another. It will not make you look more motivated.

2. Schedule a Face-to-Face

Once you have established proper notice your next step should be to schedule a meeting with your boss. This is not the time to go telling your work buddies your plan to resign. To maintain the utmost professionalism, your boss should be the first person you speak to regarding the situation. If you work remotely, request a virtual meeting as It is advised to resign face-to-face. Your goal is to be direct but also appreciative of the opportunity that your current role provided you. We also encourage you to type a formal letter reiterating your resignation that you can provide to your boss following your discussion. At this time an exit interview may be scheduled which is a time for you to give your feedback. This is an opportunity to provide your reason(s) for leaving if they directly apply to the job you were performing.

3. Navigate a Potential Counteroffer

Do not be surprised if your boss approaches you with a counteroffer. If your reason for leaving your current employment is regarding compensation, be prepared for a counteroffer. If you played an integral part in your company your boss may deem fit to provide you an increase rather than go through the hassle of finding, onboarding, and training a new employee. Though, make sure to take any counteroffer into extreme consideration as they do not always work out in your favor. It is said that about 57% of employees who accept a counteroffer still change companies within the following 24 months. Your employer may see this as an opportunity to stall your resignation while they begin the hunt for your replacement. If nothing else, your employer knows you were previously or are currently unhappy in your role which can cause tension moving forward.

4. Approach Co-Workers, Leaders, or Mentors

It is advised to approach any coworkers, leaders, or mentors you work alongside that may also benefit from a face-to-face conversation. Even if brief, it’s in your favor to have the news come from you rather than through the grapevine because we all know how that can end. Through all of this, you do not want to burn bridges. Remain gracious as you never know where the future will bring you. You may find yourself In a position where you work for or alongside some of these people again in which case you will want to have left them on a positive note. I don’t have to tell you how small of a world it is.

5. Leave On a High Note

That being said, keep in mind that though you may be parting ways, others are not. Do not use this time to boast about your upcoming role or share your negative thoughts on your current. It will only make you look bad, and it may ruffle some feathers on your way out. This is a positive for you, and you want your coworkers to feel comfortable in sending you on your next adventure.

If you have further questions or are currently on the hunt for a new role reach out to us at (518) 275-4816 or apply to https://walrathrecruiting.com/ where we are happy to assist in your smooth transition from one position to another.

 

 

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