If you’re searching for a new job whilst you’re still employed, start by reading our tips for maintaining your professionalism in The Undercover Job Search. Once you’ve found a new job you should check to see how much notice you need to give your current employer, which you’ll find in your employees contract - otherwise, one month notice is appropriate. The company will most likely need to hire a replacement and therefore need to know your intentions. Offering to train the new hire will also help keep you in good graces.
You should write a formal resignation letter, even if you resign verbally, so your employers have a solid point of reference. When you hand in your notice you will usually get an exit interview where your HR manager or boss will discuss your reasons for leaving. Use this as an opportunity to give constructive criticism and to say what you’ve learned during your time there. Do not use this as an opportunity to unload, complain or rant—it will only reflect poorly on you.
Ask your manager if he/she would be happy to give you a reference in the future – which is another reason to make sure not to burn any bridges. Even though it’s illegal to give a bad reference it’s not illegal to give a mediocre reference!
Once you’ve left the company, be cautious about sharing your news on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. You may be dying to slag off your former employer but be sure that it will not get back to them!
And remember, regardless of how you left your job, avoid being negative about your former employer at your new job. At best you’ll look like a moaner and at worst you’ll appear untrustworthy. Being positive is the best attitude to take with any new opportunity and can only help drive your career forward!
