Handing in your notice can be daunting. It can leave you asking all kinds of questions about whether you really want to move and if you’ve made the best decision.

If you’re feeling this way, you need to remember the reason(s) you started looking for a new job in the first place. Was it a culture issue, workload troubles, not getting the training and development you want and need? Keep these at the forefront of your mind.

Our Tips for Handing Your Notice In.

+ Book a time for the conversation.

It’s an important conversation, so trying to fit it in on the hop can be a challenge. Email you manager and explain you need to talk to them. Ask for a gap in their diary before the end of the day. This way they know it’s important but not an emergency.

+ Take a moment to plan what you’re going to say.

It can be a difficult conversation to have, but if you’re clear and honest about the reasons why, then it can be helpful to them.  You don’t need to go into war and peace in this moment but sharing some reasoning is always helpful for both sides. They might offer you an exit interview where you could go into more detail.

+ Follow up with a letter and email.

Following up in writing is the best next step. A brief written summary confirming you’re handing your notice in, stating your notice period and final working day. This leaves less room for error, and allows a more formal communication that can then be shared with HR.

+ What if I’m counter-offered?

Many employers are finding it tricky to source new talent, and as a result we’ve seen an increase in the amount of counter offers promising a higher salary, promotion or the promise of training and development.

Sometimes counter-offers can be positive, especially if the only reason you’re leaving a business is around salary issues, but more often than not, employers don’t always follow through with promises.

Before accepting a counter-offer, consider those reasons why you started looking for a new job. If you think it will solve these issues, then go for it - but be cautious around how and when your employer will implement these changes.  It’s also a good idea to get this in writing so you have something to refer to in the future.

+ A little dash of data.

80% of candidate who accept a counter-offer leave their employer in the next 6 months. This suggests the reason they wanted to move in the first place probably wasn’t resolved.

Need some help?

 Give us a ring. We’ve counselled many a worried candidate through handing in their notice so we’re always here to help.

 Or maybe you’re on the other side and a valued member of staff has handed their notice in and you’d like to talk through how to handle it, or how to make them a counter-offer.   Get in touch with us to talk it through – 0121 270 4080.