The Meaning of Notice Periods

If you have resigned from your job, for whatever reason, it is the norm that you will work some kind of notice period to your employers before you move onto pastures new.

Nearly every legitimate company will have a notice period written into the contract that you signed upon commencing the role. It usually is solely dependent upon the seniority or the type of role that you cover.

If you role is particularly specialized or you are senior management, it will take time for the role to be replaced and this could lead to a longer notice period that helps your employer cover the transition.

A longer notice period could also be necessary if training of the incumbent is required. They may hire someone to replace you but you may be asked or required to cross over and provide a handover to the new member of staff.

Despite seniority or role, and because of the nature of the particular industry, some companies will have you off the premises with your belongings immediately. This isn’t to treat you badly or unfairly, but roles with access to sensitive information or clients portfolios do this as a matter of course. They now know that you are leaving – they can’t risk you taking their customers with you, so don’t give you the chance!

Finding professionals with the skills and experience to replace you is no easy feat for a company and as it is you who no longer wants to work for them – it only seems fair that they allow themselves the convenience of being organised before you shake the bosses hand for the last time.

Companies don’t wish to leave themselves exposed, and that is expected, but a notice period exists to serve you the employee also. It means that you cannot be quickly and unexpectedly terminated also. If indeed your company does give YOU notice, it at least allows you to find another role to move onto.

Any gratuities, benefits or final payments due to you will only apply and be paid once you have ‘worked your notice’ If you compromise on this agreement, you may lose some or all of what is due to you in settlement.

Is there anything else you ‘need’ from your company before you leave them? I’m even talking general goodwill as much as cash or hard copy references. If you are staying in the same industry, you are sure to bump into ex colleagues in the future at events for example, you may even need to collaborate so don’t burn any bridges without thinking of the consequences, you may even come back to work for them sometime in the future. You never know what the future may hold.

Sometimes it might not be possible to commit to your notice period. Your new employees may need you sooner or personal commitments may arise. Approach your boss privately and negotiate a compromise. At the end of the day , no-one can make you stay in a role, but again, goodwill will go long way and you can no doubt achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.

All that’s left to do then is enjoy your leaving party!