Gemma Harfield, one of Astute’s Nuclear Recruitment Partners, shares her top tips on how to hand in your notice in as worry-free a way as possible.
Whether you’ve grown to dislike your current job, or you’ve simply received a job offer you can’t refuse, most will feel apprehensive at the prospect of having to inform a current employer that you are leaving.
6 tips on how to hand in your notice
- Take another look at your contract
Reviewing your contract or staff handbook should give you the necessary details for handing in your resignation.
These documents will outline your notice period, as well as provide insights into compensation and benefits relevant to your departure.
- Conduct a thorough desk and digital audit
While you’re likely expected to fulfil your notice period, it’s prudent to sift through your desk and digital files to ensure the removal or retrieval of any personal items, like photos or passwords.
Adhering to contractual stipulations concerning confidentiality and post-employment obligations is crucial.
- Draft your resignation letter
Upon confirmation of your new job offer, crafting a formal resignation letter becomes necessary.
This should be professionally typed, printed, and personally handed to your employer, rather than emailed.
Conciseness is key; refrain from delving too deeply into the reasons for your departure.
Maintaining a positive tone is paramount, as securing a decent reference hinges on fostering good relations.
Express gratitude for opportunities afforded, propose an appropriate notice period as dictated by contract or tenure.
- Strategise your communication approach
Anticipate various scenarios and formulate responses prior to requesting a meeting with your manager.
Prepare succinct answers to queries regarding your decision to leave.
Be mindful of potential counteroffers, reminding yourself of the motivations behind pursuing new opportunities.
- Uphold a positive demeanour
Echoing the tone of your resignation letter, maintain positivity when discussing your departure with colleagues.
Dwelling on grievances or frustrations serves no constructive purpose.
Focus instead on the future and the potential for personal and professional growth.
- Depart on good terms
Acknowledging the impact of your departure on workload distribution and recruitment efforts, take proactive steps to facilitate a smooth transition.
Compile comprehensive handover materials, offer assistance with outstanding tasks, and adhere to company protocols for notifying external stakeholders.
Say goodbye personally to colleagues, expressing gratitude for collaborative efforts and leaving the door open for future interactions.
About the author of the How to hand in your notice blog
Gemma joined Astute in 2022 as a Delivery Consultant, within three months, Gemma was promoted to a Recruitment Partner.
Gemma works in Astute’s Nuclear team, recruiting permanent roles such as Engineers, Technical Salespeople and Senior Management for leading businesses in the Nuclear Construction space.
If you enjoyed her blog “6 tips on how to hand in your notice” then connect with Gemma on LinkedIn.
You can view all of Astute’s Nuclear job opportunities here.
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