Decided to change your job? Ready to resign? Before submitting resignation to your employer tell him what you really think, consider that how your quit can have a big impact on your future job prospects. Take a deep breath and consider the points below.
Do you really have to go?
Make sure you are planning a change for the right reasons. Would promotion or a move into another department within the business resolve your problems? If you have faith in your HR representative, sit down with them and discuss your options. That's what they are there for! You may find there are more opportunities with your current employer than you realised.
Expect a reaction!
Unless your employer has been expecting you to resign, or requested it, you may be confronted with a range of reactions to your intention to resign. Don't see it as an opportunity to respond with a list of complaints and the companies' failings. Maintain a cool head and simply state clearly your reasons for leaving. Make it clear to your employer that you wish to leave on good terms.
Know your obligations.
If you are currently under contract or working in a probationary period, you may have the responsibility to provide a certain amount of notice. Be aware of your contractual obligations
Get what's coming to you.
Ensure you are aware of what you are entitled to, take stock of your annual leave and any long service owing. It can be easier to make these simple enquiries while you are still with your employer and have access to an HR representative or a payroll system.
Wrap up your previous work.
Try to resolve as much outstanding work as you can in your remaining time, or at least ensure that you leave a comprehensive handover document for your successor or supervisor. Nothing leaves a worse impression after you leave like a pile of unfinished work in your in-tray. If anything, you should strive to work harder in your last few weeks that you might have otherwise.
Participate in an exit interview.
If you are invited to be part of an exit interview, you should strongly consider participating. Under no circumstances however, should you use it as an opportunity to vent. If you do feel it necessary to make a comment on the reasons for your departure, ensure your remarks are not inflammatory. Rather than naming names and laying blame, recommend changes that may improve the position for the next person in your old job.
Write a professional resignation letter.
Keep your resignation letter formal, straightforward and professional. State your intention to resign and if necessary, the last date of your employment. If appropriate, include a short comment regarding your willingness to stay on and train a replacement. Include a short note of thanks in the letter, but keep it brief.
Don't feel guilty!
Remember the reasons you are making the change, and focus on your next career move. Taking the time before you depart to visit colleagues and associates before you leave can be worthwhile as well. It's a small world, and you never know when you may meet these people again in your career.
