Careers

The Do’s and Don’ts for handing in your notice at work…Leaving a job can sometimes be just as daunting as starting a new one but there are certain things to bear in mind before you quit...

Making a graceful exit is the only way to move on and maintain your professional reputation so here are some dos and don’ts!

Do’s:

  • Consider your decision carefully - If you are leaving because of problems with the boss or a colleague, moving within the organisation may solve the problem without having to leave.
  • Check your notice - It could be a week, two weeks, a month or in some instances more. It may be reasonable to consider working out that one month’s notice, as this gives the employer more time to hire someone else and also allows you to leave on a positive note.
  • Ask for a reference - Some employers will provide written reference some will take telephone enquiries, find out what to expect from yours and ensure it is someone likely to give a good impression of you!
  • Don’t leave your colleagues in the lurch – Be helpful and hand over your work properly with explanations. Detail how you go about your assigned tasks and if there’s anything outstanding that they need to pick up on.

Don’ts

  • Ranting to colleagues, friends and clients or on social media about your boss, your colleagues or the organisation. There is always a strong chance that you may meet them again later in your career.
  • Just walk out without working your notice. It’s unprofessional and bound to anger your boss and colleagues.
  • Brag about your new job, Even if you just got the best job in the world, don’t rub it in!
  • Forget to say goodbye before you leave, take the time to send a farewell message to co-workers and to let them know that you are moving on to a new position. You can include contact information that allows them to stay in touch with you.

Submitted by : Danielle Richardson, Recruitment Constulant Vantage Resources