From a reader:
Do I have a one-on-one with the manager and then send the resignation letter or just send the resignation letter straight away? What the best way to manage the resignation process?
Typically, as much as we don’t like it, this a situation that can be best managed when it’s done in-person. I would suggest that you set up a time for the discussion, before sending the resignation letter. On the other hand, if you’re working remotely, ask your manager some time for a video-conference or Skype or even a telephonic discussion, to tell him about your decision. No manager wants to be surprised by finding a mail informing him about the resignation.
However, before you get there you need to decide if you’re a 100% sure that you want out. If you have any doubts, rethink about your decision and then start the process. Since the first question from the manager would start with a “Why?” You don’t necessarily need to give him a reason, but it would seem awkward if you aren’t sure. There’s a possibility that you’re manager might take it well or act like a jerk. If he takes it well, state the actual reason tactfully. You’ll need him as a reference for future jobs. More importantly, if he was a good manager, his guidance might be valuable throughout your career! Really. If he ends up acting like a jerk, you can stick to standard replies, “I’m moving since I’ve got an excellent opportunity.” or “I’m looking for newer challenges.” or “The next job gives me more responsibilities, coupled with a better pay package.”
You’ll need to serve out your notice period. For sure. A good manager or not, serving out your notice period will help strengthen your relationship your team members/manager. No one wants to be left high and dry, especially if a project is at a critical stage. It’s a small world out there and you both could end up either working with each other or even hiring each other for a future employer! Don’t burn bridges.
It’s not your obligation, but do try and help the employer find a suitable replacement for your role. If you can, be willing to help them out for a few days even after you’ve left.
Good luck!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
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6 comments:
I have a slight difference of opinion,
If you are open to negotiations with your current employer then the phone call prior to the mail is a better option however.
If you are done with your current employer sending a mail first marking the boss, HR and relevant superiors is a better idea because any delay caused due to the discussion would push out your notice period. (Honestly speaking works well in having a sadistic pleasure if you have had a rough patch with your boss)
A good post and some good advice. Very often in my career I have seen people resign when angry or hurt over a denied promotion, increment or a plum assignment.
In my opinion, if one is interested in a long and rewarding career, resignations like job acceptance should be done in a planned manner. One has to follow the basic etiquette of corporate life: no screaming, shouting or unnecessary drama. Even if you have been wronged, you have to behave like a mature adult who can be relied upon.
A few points on how to do it:
a) Resign only when you have a new job in hand.
b) Look for a new job only when you feel that your growth has slowed down in your current company and you will not go much further here, both in terms of learning and responsibility.
c) Resign without a job only if it is impossible to remain in your current assignment, and I mean impossible not difficult. One good reason may be that they are asking you to do things which are clearly illegal or immoral.
d) Resignations should be routed through your manager.
e) Resignation should be done in a face-to-face meeting with your manager, unless your relations with him have absolutely broken down. In which case you can tender your resignation to your bosses boss or the HR Head.
f)Be willing to serve the notice period if asked. Do not be surprised however if the company accepts your resignation with immediate effect.
In the latter case, the company should be willing to pay your notice period.
g)Do not bad mouth your boss, colleagues or the company in an exit interview.
h) Do not use the resignation as a tool to get a better salary, assignment or a promotion. Any company which recognizes your ability only when you are leaving them clearly is not a great place to work. So resign only if clear that you do not want to work further with the current company.
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Agree with Prats. If your boss is remote, speaking before sending the letter simply stretches the notice period because the boss typically says "I am not in town, let's talk when I get back" or "We're busy with XYZ, let's discuss again after this is over". Now you cannot send the email till the "talk" is done, and they won't start counting the notice period from the time you made the call.
This was a great question, by the way. I don't think there is an easy answer though :-)
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Thank you for this valuable information. I am a remote worker and am choosing to accept an offer from another company. I have sent my employer an email asking for a face to face meeting this week. My plan has been to send him a formal resignation letter if he cannot meet with me or speak with me this week. My job offer expires on 4/21, but I am clear that I am ready to leave so that is not an issue and since I do not want to leave my current contracts in mid-stream the new employer has agreed to a start date of 5/31. A few days one way or the other will not impact my notice time by much, but I'd rather get this part done with sooner rather than later.
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