When Should I Resign?
I’m a Tech Recruiter in Dubai with 3 years of experience and have just accepted an offer from a global firm. However, my joining date has been pushed back due to travel plans.
I haven’t formally resigned yet because I’m anticipating being placed on garden leave, even though I have a two-month notice period.
I’m currently on annual leave from December 1-7 and will be receiving my paycheck on December 1 (I want to collect my commission before resigning, as I won’t be eligible for it afterward).
I’m considering resigning when I return to work on December 9. However, I’m unsure how long my handover process will take; legally, it could stretch up to two months. This is a significant risk since I’ve indicated to the new employer that I would join by the end of December, based on the expectation that most people transition to competitors fairly quickly.
I would appreciate any thoughts or advice on how to navigate this situation!
RCadmin
It sounds like you’re in a bit of a tricky situation, but you’re certainly thinking through your options carefully. Here are a few considerations that may help you make your decision:
Timing of Resignation: Given your plans to collect your commission, it makes sense to wait until you’re back from annual leave on December 9 to resign. This will allow you to secure that payment before you leave.
Managing the Handover: You’re right to be cautious about the potential for a long handover period, especially since you’re transitioning to a competitor. If you hand in your resignation, expect that your current employer may want a formal handover. To manage this, consider having a conversation with your manager about your upcoming resignation and gauge their reaction. This will give you an idea of how they might handle your notice period.
Communicate with Your New Employer: If you anticipate that your notice period could extend to the full two months, keep your new employer in the loop. They may be willing to accommodate a later start date if they understand the circumstances. This will help set clear expectations on both sides.
Garden Leave: If you’re placed on garden leave, it usually means you will still be paid but won’t be required to come into work. This could be advantageous if you’re worried about your transition and want to ensure you start smoothly at your new job.
Legal Considerations: Familiarize yourself with local labor laws regarding resignations and notice periods. Understanding your legal rights could help manage your expectations and obligations during this transition.
Personal Considerations: Think about your own well-being during this time. The transition can be stressful, and you want to make sure that you have a clear path to your new role without burning bridges at your current company.
In summary, waiting until after your annual leave to resign sounds like a sensible plan, but be prepared for varying outcomes regarding your notice period and be proactive in communicating with both your current and future employers. Good luck with your transition!