Recruiter Reminder: Mistakes You Must Never Make When Resigning

Details of resigning can be a big challenge for many, and it may even affect future career development.

While “leaving with full blessings” isn’t easy, maintaining a professional and amicable separation can add value to your career.

By avoiding resignation pitfalls and not leaving a negative impression in your industry or company, you can transition smoothly to your new job.

1. Using Resignation as a Bargaining Chip for a Raise

If you’re dissatisfied with your salary, you should negotiate based on outstanding performance instead of using resignation as an excuse to pressure your boss for a raise.

Resignation should be a well-considered decision, not a tactic to test your boss’s willingness to offer a higher salary. Experienced managers often see through such intentions, and even if you get a raise, it may damage trust and harm your long-term career prospects.

2. Mind the Resignation Notice Period

According to the Labor Standards Act, the notice period varies by length of service:

The notice period must be adequate. The law sets the minimum requirement, but if you’ve been with the company longer, providing a more generous buffer for your manager to find a replacement and ensure proper handover demonstrates respect and responsibility.

3. Announcing Your Resignation Prematurely

Your resignation should first be communicated to your immediate supervisor and colleagues directly involved in your work. Avoid spreading the news too early, as it may cause emotional turmoil among colleagues and inconvenience your supervisor.

The announcement of your resignation should be handled by the company according to your position. You should focus on calmly managing the handover to end your employment on a peaceful note.

4. Fabricating Reasons for Resignation

Avoid fabricating reasons for resignation, such as claiming “family illness” if it’s not true. A lie often requires more lies to cover it, and if discovered, it can damage your reputation in the company and potentially affect your image in future jobs. Handling resignation honestly keeps the door open for returning to the company or collaborating with former colleagues in the future.

When asked about your reasons for leaving, stick to the facts without disclosing every negative detail. A common and positive explanation, such as “pursuing different career goals,” works well. If you worry about your supervisor’s reaction, you can elaborate by saying, “I want to gain experience in [industry] or develop leadership/international skills/technical expertise in the next few years.”

5. Dropping Professionalism After Resignation

After submitting your resignation, no matter how dissatisfied you are with the company, supervisor, or work, you should not abandon professionalism or adopt a “why bother working hard” attitude. This could harm your reputation as irresponsible or capricious.

Resignation is not just ending a job; it’s a time to demonstrate responsibility. Properly handing over projects and contacts while staying available when necessary ensures smooth operations and maintains good relationships.

Managing your emotions during resignation is equally important. Even if you’re unhappy with the company, avoid venting to colleagues, which may lead to issues reaching your supervisor and cause trouble.

After all, professional relationships don’t end with resignation. You may work with former supervisors or colleagues again. Maintaining professionalism and avoiding emotional outbursts pave the way for smooth transitions and lay a solid foundation for future career development.

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