Handing in your resignation can feel like a weight off your shoulders, leaving you feeling like shouting from the rooftops about your new role. However, your notice period can be an awkward time as you may have ruffled a few feathers in the process of handing in your resignation – even if you did everything right.
Below, our Talent Acquisition Consultants share with you their best advice on how to survive the Remainder of your notice period.
Jamie – Tie up loose ends
Handing in your notice means there’s some admin to take care of on your end before leaving. I usually give my candidates the below checklist to take care of:
- Remove any personal files from your computer before handing it back and ensure any work-related files are backed up to a shared drive for your colleagues to access.
- Ensure any outstanding projects have been handed over to your colleagues, including the relevant materials, passwords, and deadlines they will need to complete them.
- Create a spreadsheet of the tasks you will be finishing before you leave and share the file with your manager/team to keep them updated on progress.
- Remove any personal belongings from your desk, locker and draws.
Leave a contact email or phone number in case a colleague needs to reach you once you’ve left.
Léa – Don’t burn bridges
If you have any grievances with your manager or a colleague, it’s tempting to tell them how you really feel. However, it’s best not to burn your bridges during your notice period as not only will it make the rest of your notice period unpleasant, it could tarnish your reputation within the industry.
Claudia – Downplay your future plans
Just landed your dream role? That’s fantastic but make sure you don’t rub it in your co-worker's faces. Your colleagues may ask you questions about your new role, your salary, how long you’ve been looking or your feelings on leaving – try not to be negative about your current employer when answering any questions and even if you have landed a big role with a big paycheck to match, it’s best to keep your cards close to your chest and give polite answers that don’t give too much away.
Emily – Be mindful of the workplace atmosphere
Your resignation may have caused your manager and colleagues to feel a little stressed or apprehensive about you leaving, with them wondering how to manage the workload before your replacement arrives.
Check with HR/ management straight away about what you’re allowed to tell your team members and try your best to reassure them or help them with covering your duties before you leave.
Albert – Keep your attitude in check
Handing in your notice can often feel like you’re off the hook. If you’re feeling tempted to put your feet up a little, show up later and clock off earlier than usual, or let that pesky colleague know how you really feel – try to resist the urge.
Developing a bad attitude in your final weeks could cause damage to your industry reputation and burn bridges with colleagues and managers who could be helpful connections in the future. No matter what your current workplace throws at you, put on a smile and try to remain professional.
Overall, there’s no denying that handing in your notice is a little awkward. However, by remaining professional, friendly with your colleagues and by taking things in your stride, you’ll be wrapping things up on a good note and ready to begin your new role in no time!