So, you’ve made the tough decision to move on from your current job. Whether it’s a permanent position or a contract role, navigating handing in your notice requires careful consideration and tactful execution. It’s important to handle the process with professionalism and grace, avoiding common pitfalls that can damage your reputation or hinder future opportunities. Let’s guide you through the art of handing in your notice and shed some light on why you should think twice before accepting a counter-offer.

The Art of Resignation: Do’s and Don’ts

For Permanent Job Changes:

DO’s	DON’TS
Schedule a face-to-face meeting with your manager or supervisor to deliver the news. It shows respect and gives them the opportunity to discuss your decision directly.	Resign abruptly or through an email. It may be seen as unprofessional and could sour your relationships with colleagues and managers.
Write a formal resignation letter expressing your gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you’ve had while explaining your decision to leave. Keep it concise, positive, and professional.	Use resignation as an opportunity to vent your frustrations or criticize the company. Keep the conversation focused on your decision to move forward and your future goals.
Offer sufficient notice period as per your employment contract or industry standards. This will give your employer time to find a replacement.	Slack off or neglect your responsibilities during your notice period.
Maintain respectful relationships with colleagues and supervisors. You never know when your paths might cross again, and maintaining positive connections is essential for your professional reputation.	Maintain your professionalism until the end to leave a positive lasting impression.
Be willing to help your team transition your responsibilities smoothly. This might involve training a replacement, documenting your processes, or assisting with handover meetings.

For Contract Role Changes:

DO’s	DON’TS
Review your contract carefully to understand the notice period required. Abide by the terms and conditions specified.	Neglect to inform or discuss your resignation with your client or the contracting agency. It’s essential to maintain clear and open communication throughout the process.
Communicate your decision to the appropriate party in a timely manner. Be clear about your last working day and make sure you have a written confirmation of your resignation.	Badmouth the client or agency during or after your resignation. This behaviour can tarnish your professional reputation and limit future contract opportunities.
Offer assistance with any necessary handover or knowledge transfer to ensure a smooth transition for the client or your replacement.	Burn Bridges: Treat a contract position as seriously as a permanent one. Building positive relationships can lead to future contracts or referrals.
Stay in touch with your contracting agency and any colleagues. Maintain a positive relationship as they are a valuable resource for future opportunities.

Counter Offers: Beware of the Illusion

When you resign, it’s not uncommon for your employer to make a counter offer to try to retain you. While it can be enticing, consider the following:

• The Issues Remain: The reasons that led you to consider leaving in the first place won’t necessarily disappear with a counter-offer. Evaluate whether a higher salary or improved benefits will truly address the underlying concerns and make you genuinely satisfied in the long run.
• Trust: Accepting a counter-offer can damage the trust between you and your employer. They may question your loyalty and commitment, leading to a strained relationship moving forward.
• Future Opportunities: Accepting a counter offer may impact your professional reputation. Companies may be reluctant to hire someone known to accept counter-offers, questioning their commitment to long-term growth.

Careful consideration and respectful execution are key when handing in your notice. Whether you’re transitioning from a permanent job or a contract role, maintaining professional relationships and leaving on a positive note is crucial for your future career prospects. Remember, when considering a counter-offer, think beyond the immediate gratification and evaluate if it truly aligns with your long-term goals.

Hand in your notice calmly and professionally, and step into the next chapter of your career with confidence. Good luck! If you need any guidance or assistance with job transitions, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help!

Further Reading

• Click to read more candidate related tips here
• Contact us to find out what opportunities we have that would fit your aspirations
• ACAS – the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service