Resigning. Some DO’s and DON’Ts

DO…
• Clean Your Computer/ Desk. Even if you give notice, your employer may decide to show you the door. Before you turn in your resignation, delete all personal files and personal notes and email messages. Make sure you have the contact information for everyone you need to keep in touch with after you’re gone.
• Give Notice. Unless the situation is untenable, giving anywhere between 2 weeks to One month in the UK standard practice when resigning. Check your terms and conditions of employment if you are unsure.
• Write a Resignation Letter. It’s a good idea to write a formal resignation letter for your employment file. You don’t need to say much more than you’re leaving and when your last day of work will be. Keep it simple.
• Offer to Help. Offer to help during the transition. The offer may not be accepted, but it should be appreciated.
• Ask for a Reference. Depending on the circumstances of your departure, ask your boss and colleagues if they would be willing to give you a reference. You can use this information in any way you choose.

DON’T…
• Be Negative. When you’re talking about your resignation with colleagues, try to emphasise the positive and (where you can) about how the experience has benefited you, even though it’s time to move on. There’s no point in being negative – you’re off, and you want to leave on good terms.
• Brag About Your New Job. Even if you just got your dream job, don’t bleat on about it. There is little point in making your soon to be ex-colleagues feel bad – because they’ll miss you
• Put too much in Writing. Regardless of how much you hate your job, your boss or the company, don’t say it. Keep that to yourself.
• Forget to Say AuRevoir. Before you leave, take the time to send colleagues a message, even a generic email. A leaving do may be organised, if this is a little formal or not your style, remember you can organise an informal get together and invite those you want to attend.

Thank you for a great day out…

Today was rather a marathon day out, inspired in part by the thought of seeing Antony Gormleys ‘Critical Mass’ again after all these years. This time we made tracks for Bexhill-On-Sea, a rather long and tortuous journey by car as we seemed to get caught behind Sunday drivers, who’d hit the road a day early. Once at the pavillion we joined the bronze casts in their various positions on the roof and posed with them for photographs. We weren’t the only ones. And it was free.

The excitement continued with a rapid tour of charity shops when I managed to acquire ‘1977’ and ‘Nu-Clear Sounds’ for fifty pence each. Best not tell Ash. For some particular reason we also paid Hastings a visit. Still not sure why. Soon we were back in the car and heading for Beachy Head, the prospect of having wind in the hair and a good bracing walk spurred us on.

On arrival at the car park I was strangely drawn to the closed cafe in search of two hot cups of tea. Uncle Mark and I were desperate for a brew. Mrs W and boys, totally unconcerned strode on.

After a short sulk we rejoined the party and strolled to the Head itself, taking in our share of fresh south coast air and enjoying the spectacular views of the other Sisters.

Later I would recall the last time there, when standing at the top, with arms outstretched, I poured out my heart to God – a significant moment. I probably had a thermos of tea tucked away in the car boot too.

The seafront at Seaford was our next destination.  Not much doing, but with deserted beach, low light, sea mist closing in and an open cafe, it met the criteria, pressed all the right buttons. The woman who served us was obviously learning English, so we exchanged a fair number of pleases and thank yous. One hot drink later we were on the way home. Mrs W, Uncle Mark, boys and Mr Gormley… I thank you.