Deciding whether to resign before securing a new job due to a 3-month notice period depends on several factors. While resigning might make you immediately available for new opportunities, it also carries risks. Here's a balanced perspective:
- Faster Job Search: Being immediately available may attract employers who need quick joiners.
- Focus on Job Hunting: You can dedicate all your time and energy to preparing for interviews and networking.
- Flexibility for Interviews: You won't have to juggle interviews with your current work commitments.
- Financial Risk: Without another job in hand, you'll need savings to cover expenses, which might add stress.
- Employment Gap: A break between jobs might raise questions during interviews.
- No Negotiation Power: Employers might offer a lower salary, knowing you’re unemployed.
- Market Uncertainty: If the job market is slow or your skillset has limited demand, finding a new role could take longer than expected.
- You have substantial savings to sustain yourself for 6–12 months.
- You're confident in your skillset and demand in the market.
- You’re in a toxic work environment that’s impacting your mental health or performance.
- You’re open to temporary or freelance roles during the gap.
- Negotiate Shorter Notice Period: Before resigning, explore if your current employer allows early exits through buyouts, leave encashment, or replacements.
- Start Searching Early: Actively search while still employed, even if it means waiting longer to transition.
- Plan a Smooth Transition: If you find a new job, negotiate with the new employer to join after your notice period or see if they can intervene to expedite the process.
- Do I have enough financial backup to support myself for an extended period?
- How confident am I in securing a job in the next 3–6 months?
- Am I okay with potential gaps in employment history, or can I explain them effectively?
- Are there industry trends indicating demand for professionals with my skills?
- Don't resign prematurely. It's always safer to secure a job first unless you're in a situation that demands immediate resignation (e.g., health issues or extreme job dissatisfaction).
- Start actively networking and preparing for opportunities while employed.
- Use your current job as leverage to negotiate better offers with potential employers.
By taking a calculated approach, you can minimize risks while improving your chances of finding a role aligned with your career goals.
Test engineer
1moGreat advice