Resigning is never easy, even for those who don’t like their job or their boss very much. It is important to be sure that leaving is the best option and if unsure about what a new job might involve this can prove to be a very difficult decision.
A list of pros and cons or a trial shift can be useful tools to help in making a decision with confidence. Having decided to turn in a resignation, further difficulties can arise in ensuring it is done tactfully and bridges are not burned. Whatever your reasons for resigning and moving on, the tips below will help to smooth the process.
resign respectfully.
The resignation should be formal and done in writing, but it is also a good idea to have a discussion with the line manager to let them know what is happening. Resigning in writing will adhere to the policies and procedures of most companies, while talking personally to the line manager will help to keep the situation amicable.
It is not a good idea to use the letter to complain about everything that is wrong with the working environment. Letters should be kept brief, avoiding negative points and focusing on one or two positives.
It is also important to consider the amount of notice that needs to be given. In many cases this could be a period of four weeks or a calendar month. The letter of resignation should be handed in at a time that allows for the notice period to be completed before any new commitments begin.
learn the who’s and what’s.
Those who are changing jobs can do a few things to make the transition as seamless as possible. It is a good idea to do a little research before the first day, in order to increase awareness of how the company is structured and what it does.
Become familiar with the company website and to get to know who the key people are in the company.
It is advisable to quickly figure out how the company works in terms of communication. If the company uses memos to communicate with staff, then sending emails or issuing verbal instructions will make it more difficult to fit in. It is also important to become familiar with all the rules and procedures of the company, ensuring that any training manuals or provided literature have been read before the new job is due to begin.
ask questions.
One of the most important things to ensure is that a clear job description is provided. It is far easier to settle into a new role if the tasks involved are clearly laid out so that expectations can be met. If anything is not clear, questions should be asked quickly, within a week or two of starting. Asking questions at a much later date will make it look as though the new employee has not been keen to learn or pulling their weight.
Jobs in the IT sector will bring workers into contact with many other employees and nothing makes settling in easier than to getting to know people and making an effort to be friendly.
