Are you contemplating a career move but need help deciding when to resign from your current job?
The timing of your resignation is a critical aspect of any career transition that demands careful consideration. It extends beyond giving notice, requiring a thoughtful examination of various factors that could significantly influence your financial stability, professional growth, and reputation. This article will explore ten common factors to consider when timing your resignation.
Everyone’s situation is different, here are some factors that you may want to consider:
- In Alignment with Company Policies: Adhere to any notice periods or policies outlined in your employment contract. Giving the required notice shows professionalism and respect for your current employer.
- Bonuses and Benefits: Review your employment contract, as many specify that bonuses won’t be paid out if you leave before the designated payout date. Ensure you are well-informed before making any decisions.
- Career Advancement: If you are on the brink of a promotion you’ve diligently worked towards, weigh the decision carefully. Waiting a bit longer might allow you to reap the rewards of your persistence.
- Ongoing Projects and Skill Showcase: Evaluate the impact of leaving halfway through ongoing projects that could enhance your portfolio. Would completing them spotlight your skills and make you a more appealing candidate to potential employers?
- Stock Options: Assess the allure of unvested stock options about to pay out. Leaving prematurely could mean forfeiting potential financial gains.
- Financial Commitments: Address personal financial commitments, especially if you anticipate substantial costs shortly. Ensure that your next career move aligns with covering these expenses.
- Training Investments: Many companies invest in their employees’ professional development. Check for any stipulated timeframe to stay post-training if you’ve received certifications, education, or training. Leaving too soon might mean covering the associated costs.
- Avoiding Peak Workload Times: If your industry has predictable busy seasons, you may want to avoid resigning during these periods. This can reduce the impact on your colleagues and demonstrate consideration for the team’s workload.
- When You Feel Ethically Compelled: If you find yourself in a situation where you are aware of ethical concerns within your current company and you feel a moral obligation to leave, it might be the right time to resign, irrespective of other factors.
- Before a Planned Vacation: Handing in your resignation before a scheduled vacation or break can give you time to decompress and mentally prepare for upcoming changes. It also allows your employer to plan for your absence.
Conclusion:
In the end, the timing of your resignation is a highly personal decision that should carefully consider your career objectives, the requirements of your current employer, and your overall well-being. Discussing your plans with mentors, friends, or career advisors can provide additional perspectives tailored to your situation.
Motus Career Coaching
Motus Career Coaching focuses 100% on helping people with career and job-related goals and challenges. To learn more about Motus Career Coaching, click Motus Career Coaching. To get these weekly career blogs delivered to your inbox each week fill in your details on our contact page. Contact Page