Handing in your resignation can be intimidating. This is especially true in the construction industry, where there is both a labour and a skills shortage. However, you should be able to quit without fear of jeopardising your reputation in the industry.
The following resignation tips are relevant regardless of the situation. Perhaps you found a better offer. Perhaps you are relocating. Perhaps you'd like a change of pace. Whatever the reason, keep the following suggestions in mind.
Check Your Contract
Take the time to look over your original contract before officially resigning from your job. The contract will specify how much notice you must provide. It will also mention anything relevant, such as when your last pay date is.
Talk to Your Boss Before Giving Written Notice
When leaving a job, it is customary to give written notice. However, simply handing your boss your notice is not always courteous. Try speaking to them first instead.
Simply set up a meeting with your boss or immediate supervisor, choose a quiet location, and inform them of your resignation. You are not obliged to answer their questions unless you want to, but they may inquire as to why you are leaving or about any new job offer you have received.
Once you have told them your intentions you can follow it up with a formal letter of resignation. Sending your written notice by email is an acceptable alternative to printing it and is a good way to follow up on your conversation with your supervisor. This also has the added benefit of proving when and how you submitted it and allows you to cc in HR for further confirmation of your resignation.
Be Cautious of Counteroffers
it's critical to consider how you'll respond if your present employer counters your offer. You should expect your current employer to try to persuade you to stay if you're good at what you do and essential to the company's operations.
There are a myriad of reasons why you really shouldn’t consider a counteroffer however tempting it may be, but that’s a whole new topic on its own. You can find out the BIG reasons why in our blog Why You Should Be Cautious of Counteroffers
Complete Your Notice Period
Most of these resignation tips focus on maintaining a positive relationship with your former employer. After all, you never know when you might need a reference, or if indeed you might wish to reapply for another role with them in the future.
One of the most crucial tips for retaining this positive relationship is to complete your notice period. Follow through on everything you discussed with your boss and in your written resignation and ensure a smooth handover to the person taking over your projects. Secondly, don't slack off during your notice time. Work just as hard as you always do and tie up any loose ends.
What Not to Do
While most of the previous advice focuses on what you should do when leaving your construction company, there are also some things you should avoid.
Do Not Tell Work Colleagues First
Your employer should be the first person to know about your resignation. Informing co-workers first is extremely disrespectful.
Don't Bad Mouth the Company
You may feel as if you can air all your grievances as you leave, however criticising the company as you depart is another major no-no. Co-workers may also believe they can complain to you since you are leaving. But you want to maintain your good relationship with the company, so resist the temptation.
Conclusion
These resignation tips will help ensure you leave your current role on good terms and avoid burning bridges with the company. This will allow you to maintain your good reputation in the industry and use them as a reference in the future. It also leaves the door open should you decide to return to the company in the future
How Can We Help?
Are you searching for an opportunity in the construction industry or a hiring manager in need of construction talent? Get in touch today getus@jamesgrayrecruitment.com