When is the right time to resign?
I’m currently a tech recruiter in Dubai with three years of experience. I’ve accepted an offer from a global firm, but my start date has been postponed due to my travel plans.
I haven’t resigned yet because I expect to be placed on garden leave, despite my two-month notice period.
I will be on annual leave from December 1-7 and will receive my paycheck on December 1, as I want to collect my commission before resigning; otherwise, I won’t be eligible for it.
I’m considering submitting my resignation when I return to work on December 9. I’m unsure about how long my handover will take—it could be up to two months, which feels risky since I’ve informed my new employer that I’d be available by the end of December. Typically, people transition to competitor roles quite quickly, within days or a week.
I would appreciate any thoughts or advice on how to handle this situation!
RCadmin
It sounds like you’re in a bit of a tricky situation, but you have some options to consider. Here are a few thoughts:
Timing of Resignation: It makes sense to wait until after you return from your annual leave to resign, especially since you want to secure your commission payment. By resigning on December 9, you’ll be able to ensure that you’re still eligible for that payout.
Garden Leave: Check your current company’s policy regarding notice periods and garden leave. Since you have a 2-month notice period, it’s possible you could be put on garden leave, but there’s also a chance that they might not enforce it, especially if you’re moving to a competitor. Be prepared for either scenario.
Handing Over Responsibilities: As you’ve noted, legally, they can request a full 2-month handover. However, in practice, many companies and managers are willing to negotiate this timeframe, especially if they want to fill your position quickly. Consider discussing an expedited handover with your manager once you do resign.
Communication with Your New Employer: It might be a good idea to keep your new employer informed about your situation, especially regarding your notice period and potential timing. If they are aware of your current obligations, they may be more understanding about any delays.
Risk Management: Evaluate your risk tolerance. If you think there’s a strong chance you could be put on garden leave, it might be worthwhile to have a conversation with someone in your HR department about what to expect. Additionally, think about how you’ll handle delays and whether your new employer is flexible with your start date.
Consider Alternatives: If you feel uncertain about your current employer’s response, you might also consider resigning earlier and then negotiating a shorter notice period or a clear exit timeline with them.
Ultimately, ensure you have a clear plan in place when you do resign, and protect your interests as much as you can. Good luck!