Rules for Giving Notice at Work

Finishing a job to the end is important when quitting.

The term "giving notice" implies that someone is quitting his job. While the reasons for quitting are vast, it is always a bad idea to quit incorrectly. Never walk out on a job as this action affects your future endeavors. Follow the rules of quitting and remember this job may affect future jobs or career success.

Check the Employee Handbook

The first place to look when trying to hand in a notice is the employee handbook. Turning in a notice will be described here under the employee policies. Follow the guide exactly to make sure you will handle the notification correctly. An employee who gives notice incorrectly may not receive a positive recommendation. The notice is delivered either verbally or in writing, depending on the company. Notices are typically delivered two weeks ahead of the last day of work.

Be Polite

Avoid the temptation to be rude to coworkers or your boss. No matter what has happened in the past, you have no idea what the future holds. There may be a time when you need to return to the company, and you need to be remembered as a professional who left with grace and dignity. Even if there is no chance of returning, you may need a future reference. You want to be able to count on the company for that reference.

Ask For a Reference

Ask your boss for a letter of recommendation when you give notice of your intentions to leave. This gives the boss ample time to consider what to put in the letter and finish the composition. Request to have the recommendation delivered to you on your last day to avoid placing pressure on the boss. If the letter is not finished when you leave, give your boss your home address on your last day of work so he can send the letter to your home.

Train or Finish All Work

If you need to train a replacement, make sure he is trained before you leave. Finish any work you receive. Do not leave your replacement with a pile of work. Finishing your work will improve the boss' image of you and make you look more professional. If you need a reference in the future, the boss will remember the two weeks of hard work you delivered and it will improve the recommendation.

References

• Life Goes Strong; Quitting with Class; Leslie Ayres; March 2011
• Kennesaw State University: Employee Standards