Dos and Don'ts of Handing in your Notice

It's a critical moment in your professional journey that requires tact and finesse. In this blog, we will guide you through the process by providing a comprehensive list of dos and don'ts when it comes to handing in your notice. Whether your first time leaving a business or if you've done it before, our guide can help you leave on the best possible terms.

Here are 3 dos when handing in your notice:

• Give advance notice: It's standard practice here in the UK to give at least two weeks' notice, although your contract may require a longer period. 

Providing ample notice demonstrates respect for your employer's time and resources, allowing them sufficient time to plan for your departure and ensuring a smooth transition. It's a professional courtesy that preserves your reputation and maintains positive relationships, which could be beneficial for future references and networking opportunities.

• Resign in person: If circumstances permit, it's highly advisable to resign in person. This approach shows respect for your employer and gives you the opportunity to discuss your departure on a more personal level. 

It's an act of professionalism that allows for an open dialogue about your reasons for leaving, potential improvements in the workplace, and the way forward after your departure. 

Additionally, resigning in person ensures the message is delivered clearly, avoiding any confusion or misinterpretation that might occur with written communication. This level of transparency can help maintain good relations and leave a lasting positive impression.

• Write a formal resignation letter: After your verbal communication, it's imperative to put your intention of leaving into written form through a formal resignation letter. 

This serves as an official record of your departure, providing clear documentation both for your current employer and for any future employment considerations. It should succinctly state your intention to resign, the date from which your notice starts, and your last working day. 

A resignation letter, written with a tone of gratitude for the opportunities provided during your tenure, helps to cement a positive image and ensures your departure is handled in a professional manner. This process reinforces your commitment to a smooth transition.

Here are 5 don'ts when handing in your notice:

• Don't air grievances: While it may be tempting to use your resignation as an opportunity to express any negative experiences or complaints, it's advisable not to air your grievances during this process. 

This approach can leave a sour taste and overshadow your contributions, potentially damaging the professional relationships you've cultivated over your tenure. Remember, it's essential to maintain a positive, professional image as you never know when you might cross paths with your colleagues or employer in the future. 

If you feel it's necessary to provide feedback, consider doing so in a constructive, respectful manner during your exit interview. This way, you can voice your concerns without burning bridges.

• Don't burn bridges: When handing in your notice, it is crucial to avoid burning bridges with your current employer and colleagues. This is to say, avoid actions or words that could result in permanently damaging relationships. 

No matter the circumstances leading to your decision to leave, parting on amicable terms is beneficial for your professional reputation and future networking opportunities. 

The professional world can be smaller than you think, and you might encounter your former employer or colleagues in future roles or professional situations. 

• Don't neglect your duties: Upon handing in your notice, it is paramount not to slack off or disregard your responsibilities. It's easy to adopt a 'short-timer's attitude', but such an approach can diminish your professional image and harm the healthy relationships you've strived to maintain. 

Continue to fulfil your duties responsibly and maintain your work ethic until the very last day. This shows a high level of professionalism and respect for your current employer, and also ensures that your colleagues aren't left to pick up the slack. 

Demonstrating commitment even in departing circumstances will leave a strong, positive impression of you.

• Don't spread the news prematurely: Be cautious about sharing news of your impending resignation with colleagues or on social media before officially informing your employer. Publicising your decision prematurely can lead to an uncomfortable situation, especially if your manager hears about it indirectly. This act could be perceived as disrespectful, casting a shadow over your otherwise professional exit process. 

It might disrupt the team dynamics and workflow, causing unnecessary confusion or tension in the workplace. So, to uphold your professional image, it is best to hold off on any announcements until after your formal notice has been accepted.

• Don't leave immediately: Abruptly exiting your role once you've resigned is considered unprofessional and may cause unnecessary strain on your colleagues who have to take over your responsibilities on short notice. 

The standard notice period serves to ensure a smooth transition, allowing your employer to find a replacement or redistribute your tasks among the team without causing significant disruption. 

Leaving immediately can tarnish your reputation and might be viewed as disregard for your commitments, potentially affecting future references or job opportunities.

The bottom line

With a mindful approach and a commitment to professionalism, it's entirely possible to navigate the transition of handing in your notice smoothly. From the moment you decide to move on, to the final goodbyes on your last working day, your actions will leave a lasting impression. 

So, it's worth remembering that the manner of your departure can speak volumes about your character and professional integrity. Always strive to leave on a high note, preserving the relationships and reputation you've worked hard to build.