Posted by Switching jobs every three to five years has become a norm in today’s concept of employment. Regardless of the position we hold on to, we always strive to search for better job opportunities. We search for jobs with a higher annual income, a fresh work environment or even a new location more convenient for us to commute to. With that said, switching jobs can be daunting yet healthy for a career growth. Just make sure the resignation process with the current company is carried out with grace and respect. This is because how you resign from a company can leave a lasting impression on your career track record.
Here are some key points to know when it is time to make that move:
Long Hours
Working overtime has its merits depending on the type of occupation and extra income earned from it. Striking a balance between work and personal time can be difficult when your life and health are greatly affected. Lack of proper time management and heavy work demands can eventually cause a burnout. In essence, this can be a good opportunity to find a new job; one where you can aim to find balance for work and personal time.
Lack of Career Growth
Employees who want to climb the career ladder are always on the lookout for opportunities (be it an internal promotion or by other companies). An obstacle such as an organisation showing minimal chances for professional growth or perceived favouritism in promotion is a huge red flag. Fret not, if career progression is what you are after, keep searching and choose to work with employers who give you the chance to grow and use your talent.
Company Culture Isn’t Suited for You
Workplace culture is the heart of the organisation and often determines the environment where employees work. Most employers place key emphasis to ensure every individual is fully invested in their job through elements such as the company’s mission, values, ethics, expectations or goals. Employees can be motivated by cumulative traits of the people (beliefs and behaviours) within the company. Working in a place that you are unable to fit in will make you feel demotivated and become unproductive. Not everyone is capable of adapting to the culture and if you can’t mix comfortably, you are better off with finding a place which best suits your values.
Related Article: What Constitutes a Positive Employee Experience?
Family Circumstances
The decision to resign from a job due to family matters can be a tough call to make. Limit the extent of personal information you decide to share with your boss or Human Resources department. It is important to not over share personal information with your employer as it makes things too casual and less formal in general. If you have the desire to rejoin your company after you have settled your personal issues, do give them a heads up before that so the door is kept open for you.
A 4-Step Guide on How to Resign:
- Reflect On Your Decisions to Quit
We have all have our reasons (positive or negative) to leave our job. Think rationally and ensure that you are making the right decision for your career, financially and professionally. Are you leaving a job with a good reason and have you weighed the consequences thoroughly? Consider the outcome if you are temporarily unemployed, you will still need to sustain your lifestyle and your family; on a no-salary budget. - Considering Other Options
Before handing over your tender letter, take some time and scout for a new job; if possible secure an employment. Do your research about the background of the companies you are interested to join. Schedule for job interviews and learn more about other future job prospects, employee benefits and the work culture of potential companies. Most importantly, take as much time as you need to find the right job. - Plan Handovers
From your initial thoughts about resigning to making the final decision, remember to prepare for handovers and write a formal resignation letter. Once you have received confirmation of your new employment, speak to your superior and tender at least two weeks in advance. In the span of two weeks, make proper arrangements with your colleagues for the handover process (on-going tasks at hand) and start introducing them to the teams you handle, including clients and contacts who work with you for a smoother transition. It is also important to request for an exit interview so you can provide some feedback to your company. - Leaving On a Good Note
As a valuable employee in the company, be firm and direct to your boss about leaving the company. Be honest and positive when you share reasons as to why you have opted to resign. Keep things professional and if your employer offers you a counter-offer, remain grounded and remember why you decided to leave in the first place. Settle your handover tasks at hand, ensuring your colleagues are in the loop through the transition period. They will be thankful for your sense of professionalism and thoughtfulness. Label files accordingly and pass hard copy as well as soft copy materials to your colleagues. Lastly, send a farewell email to your contacts and to your department as a sign of respect.