Credit: Pexels.com
Negosentro | Moving to a New Job? Check These 6 Things With Your Current Employer Before You Leave | Making the decision to leave your current job for a new opportunity is a major step in your career. It’s an exciting time, full of potential for personal and professional growth. However, before you finalize the transition, there are several important considerations to take into account with your current employer. Doing so ensures that your departure is smooth, professional, and that you don’t leave any loose ends that could negatively affect your future career. Here are six crucial things to check with your current employer before you leave.
1. Review Your Employment Contract and Benefits
Before resigning, carefully review the terms of your employment contract, especially if you signed a non-compete agreement, confidentiality clauses, or any other legal stipulations. Understanding these details can prevent any unexpected legal issues when moving to a new job. Examine your benefits package, including unused vacation days, sick leave, or bonuses. Determine how these will be handled upon your departure. Many employers allow you to cash out unused vacation time or pay out bonuses, so ensure you’re clear on these details.
2. Give Proper Notice
It’s standard practice to give your employer at least two weeks’ notice before you leave, though some companies may require more. Giving adequate notice demonstrates professionalism and gives your employer time to find a replacement or make other necessary arrangements. Make sure you follow the protocol for resignation within your company’s guidelines, whether it’s a formal letter or a conversation with your supervisor. This will help preserve a good relationship with your employer, which could be beneficial for future references.
3. Clarify Your Final Paycheck and Severance
One of the most important aspects of leaving your job is understanding when and how you will receive your final paycheck. Confirm the last day you will be paid and any other details about your final compensation, such as unused paid time off or any outstanding commissions. If applicable, inquire about severance pay or benefits for departing employees. Many companies offer severance packages, especially for employees who have been with the company for a significant time. Knowing your pay situation and being up to date with the law on how long can an employer not pay you ensures you don’t face any financial surprises after your departure.
4. Return Company Property
Ensure that you return any company property that may be in your possession, such as laptops, phones, keys, or access cards. Failing to return these items could result in deductions from your final paycheck or a legal claim by the employer. Make a checklist of all the items you need to return, and leave the company on good terms by ensuring everything is properly accounted for.
5. Obtain References and Recommendations
Before you leave, request a letter of recommendation or references from your supervisor or manager. Having these documents in hand can be extremely helpful as you move forward in your career. It’s also a good time to connect with colleagues on LinkedIn or other professional platforms. A positive reference can go a long way in helping you secure future opportunities, so don’t forget to ask for this while you’re still employed.
6. Ask About Health Benefits and Retirement Plans
Finally, it’s crucial to understand what will happen to your health insurance and retirement benefits when you leave. Many companies offer a continuation of health benefits through COBRA or other options, but it’s important to know the specific details regarding coverage and when it will end. If you’re part of a retirement plan like a 401(k), inquire about how to handle your contributions and what your options are for rolling over the account into your new employer’s plan or an individual retirement account (IRA).
To Sum Up
Leaving a job can be a bittersweet experience, but by checking these key points with your current employer, you can ensure a smoother transition. Keeping things professional and transparent during your departure not only benefits you in the short term, but it also helps you maintain a positive relationship with your current employer, which could be valuable in the future.
