Handing In Notice

When the time comes for you to hand in your notice, you may feel a multitude of emotions from anxiety to guilt. It can certainly be an unnerving experience. How you feel, depends on the circumstances surrounding your departure/resignation and the relationship you have with your current employer and colleagues.

You can give your resignation verbally, unless your contract says otherwise. However, it is often better to put your resignation in writing informing your employer of the date of your departure and the notice period you will serve. If you want to explain your reasons for resigning, putting it in writing will help you to organise your thoughts.

It is important that you behave in a professional manner throughout the resignation process. Your character and your personal integrity should never be in question. Be positive, be co-operative and avoid recriminations.

YOUR RESIGNATION LETTER

• Make sure the information in your letter follows all the correct “termination of employment” procedures agreed in your original contract.
   
• Keep the letter brief and to the point. You are under no obligation to give your current employer your full reasons for leaving. If you feel under pressure to expand on them, explain that your new role offers you better opportunities for career enhancement, giving short, positive answers to any questions.

• you are leaving on good terms, you may want to add a touch of sentiment and thank the company for the opportunities it has given you. If, on the other hand, there are harsh feelings behind your decision to leave the company, your resignation letter is not the time to express your grievances or give cause for animosity.
   
• Arrange a meeting with your appropriate manager as soon as possible. Always prepare what you are going to say and take your resignation letter with you.
   
• Don't feel guilty about your resignation or allow yourself to be swayed by a counter offer or promises of promotions or pay rises. Remember the reasons behind your decision to find alternative employment. It is unlikely those reasons will change.
   
• Leave the company on good terms; remember you may need a reference from your current employer in the future.

YOUR RIGHTS

You will ideally want to leave your company on harmonious and positive terms but you may find that you have an employment contract which is unreasonable or that you risk losing your new job because of fears of bad references from your old company. If you have an irreconcilable dispute, please contact the Citizens Advice Bureau, ACAS or a solicitor who specialises in Employment Law for further advice.