Handing in your notice: It's not personal, it's professional

Recently, there's been a notable uptake among Irish professionals eyeing opportunities abroad, with Australia standing out as a prominent choice. The Australian Department of Home Affairs reveals that a record-breaking 21,000 Irish citizens made the leap from July 2022 to June 2023, securing holiday visas for their journey. In the same year, data from LinkedIn showed that 59% of Irish people considered changing jobs and that that figure jumped to 71% when applied to those in the 18 - 24 age bracket.

Whether you find yourself pondering a career reassessment in Ireland or contemplating a professional shift to sunny Melbourne, the decision to resign from your job can be a daunting – but also exciting - prospect. In doing so, you initiate a new chapter in your career journey and there are ways to navigate this process in an amicable and professional manner, from the moment you decide to hand in your notice until the day you bid your final farewell.

Firstly, does this move align with my personal and career growth goals? It's not just about the job change or salary; it's about ensuring your decision is well-informed and aligns with where you want to steer your professional trajectory.

The most pivotal moment is preparing for the conversation where you inform your manager of your decision to move on. Remind yourself that “it’s not personal, it’s professional”, and go in with a clear, succinct message, along the lines of “The time has come for me to take on a new challenge”. Thank them for the experience gained and use this time to negotiate a notice period. If confronted with pushback and counter offers, remember to keep your reasons for leaving at the forefront of your mind.

After informing your manager, you will need to follow up with a resignation letter. Keep it clear, concise and sincere, and feel free to express your gratitude for your time spent in the organisation, clarifying your commitment to respecting the notice period.

As you transition, cooperation is the name of the game. Work closely with your team, document ongoing projects, and consider playing a supportive role in the training or hiring processes. Demonstrating dedication ensures a smooth handover and leaves a lasting, positive mark on your professional legacy.

Should the prospect of an exit interview arise, approach it with openness and honesty. It's a chance to share constructive feedback that contributes to ongoing workplace improvement and underscores your commitment to the organisation's growth.

Remember, professionalism is your guiding star throughout this journey. Maintain it until your last day. "Don't burn your bridges" – is a well-known piece of advice and there's a good reason for it. Particularly in a small and interconnected employment market, your reputation will proceed you! Positive relationships and a glowing reference are treasures that will serve you well in your future endeavours – you never know what could be hiding around the corner!

If you are considering a move, please reach out to ACCPRO for a confidential chat about opportunities both in Ireland and overseas. Email sinead@accpro.ie for more info.