How To Resign Gracefully

Once a new job has been accepted, you need to consider the timing of your resignation. Since two weeks' notice is considered the norm, make sure your resignation properly coincides with your start date at the new company.

Try to avoid an extended start date. Even if your new job begins in 10 weeks, don't give 10 weeks' notice; wait eight weeks and then give two weeks' notice. This way, you'll protect yourself from disaster; in the unlikely event your new company announces a hiring freeze a month before you come on board. By staying at your old job for only two weeks after you've announced your resignation, you won't be subjected to the envy, scorn, or feelings of professional impotence that may result from your new role as a lame-duck employee.

Some companies will make your exit plans for you. I know a candidate whose employer had the security guard escort him out of the building the moment he announced his intention to go to work for a direct competitor. Fortunately, he was still given two weeks' pay.

Your resignation should be handled in person, preferably on a Friday afternoon. Ask your direct supervisor if you can speak with him privately in his office. When you announce your intention to resign, you should also hand your supervisor a letter which states your last date of employment with the company. Let him know that you've enjoyed working with him, but that an opportunity came along that you couldn't pass up, and that your decision to leave was made carefully, and doesn't reflect any negative feelings you have toward the company or the staff.

You should also add that your decision is final, and that you would prefer not to be made a counteroffer, since you wouldn't want your refusal to accept more money to appear as a personal affront. Let your supervisor know that you appreciate all the company's done for you; and that you'll do everything in your power to make your departure as smooth and painless as possible.

Executive recruiter William Werksman is a frequent columnist to job boards including http://www.NevadaJobBoard.com addressing both the candidate's and employer's perspective. Werksman's expertise has been featured in business magazines, national newspapers and television news segments. His firm, Resource Partners, is recognized as the leading source of specialized and executive talent in the Casino and Gaming industry. He manages a staff of recruiters out of his firm's Las Vegas, Nevada headquarters. He may be reached at: Bill@CareerInsider.com or (702)248-1028.

---

Does Your Resume Have What It Takes To Survive The First Cut?

Qualifications" or "Personal Profile") uses bullets and succinct wording to... Read More

Expose Lies on Resumes

Purpose: Learn about the new Polygraph for management hiresHis heart... Read More

A Bit of Pollyanna

"Stop being such a Pollyanna," a trusted, more experienced colleague... Read More

Kick-In-The-Pants Job Search

Believe it: three obstacles will hold you back from your... Read More

Get In Career Shape

Research suggests that as many as 8 out of 10... Read More

So, Why Dont You Tell Me About Yourself?

"So, why don't you tell me about yourself?" is the... Read More

Before You Begin, Know What To Expect - How You Can Make a Living Proof Reading From Home

Proof reading from home is an excellent way to make... Read More

Top 10 Resume Writing Tips to Get You the Interview

There are many reasons why you could be in the... Read More

How To Become A Computer Consultant

Have you ever wanted to become a computer consultant, but... Read More

Your Resume Format - What Is The First Thing You Need To Do?

The first thing you need to do before you write... Read More

How to Change Career Horses in Mid-Stream

You'll get wet but the reward just might be a... Read More

Reviving Your Resume

A resume may not be who you are, but to... Read More

What To Do When A Co-Worker Turns Nasty

A friend of mine laments that work would be great... Read More

How To Get That Promotion

If you're looking for that promotion or pay rise then... Read More

What Is Your Greatest Weakness?

The fastest way to make a good interview go bad... Read More

Rev-Up Your Network!

Whether you are looking for a job, new clients or... Read More

Five Powerful Tips for Interns

Interning is about more than earning money during summer break.... Read More

5 Interviewing Tips To Get That Job!

Anyone who is a jobseeker knows that looking for a... Read More

Counter-Offers: Do They Merit Consideration?

You are one of the fortunate few who have not... Read More

Job Search Advice for Desperate Job Seekers

Another morning of job hunting lies ahead of you. You... Read More

The #1 Job Search Mistake To Avoid: Not Preparing Your Mind!

Mental preparation is probably your most important task as you... Read More

How to Evaluate Job Offers and Zoom In On the Right Opportunity for You

You've been successful in your job hunt and have received... Read More

Applying for a Job in Another Country? International Resumes

Is an International Resume still a Resume? This is a... Read More

How to Track Your Right Career

Are you lost in the wilderness when it comes to... Read More

Rethink Your Career Transition

Are you going nowhere in your career? If you've decided... Read More