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HomeCareer AdviceDo’s and Don’ts of Serving Notice Period

Do’s and Don’ts of Serving Notice Period

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Congratulations, it looks like you’ve found your dream job and are ready to kickstart your new career journey! 

Now that you’ve submitted your resignation letter, the next step is the most important part of the process “Serving your Notice Period”

This step is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most important parts of your resignation. The notice period is one of those moments in your career where your professionalism, honesty, and commitment are put to the test. 

Therefore, how you handle your notice period has a huge impact on your reputation and your future career prospects. That’s why it’s important to treat your notice period as you would your first day on the job.

This blog will help you stay professional and confident throughout the notice period of your current company and prepare you for a smooth transition to the next stage of your career journey.

What is The Notice Period?

Before we dive into understanding the do’s and don’ts of serving a notice period, let’s first know what serving a notice period means.

An employee’s notice period is the period between the resignation of an employee and the employee’s last day on the job. A notice period serves as a transition period for the employee and the employer. During the notice period, an employee works on completing tasks that need to be completed and handover responsibilities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Serving Notice Period 

Tips to serve your notice period

Now that we have an overall understanding of the importance and meaning of the notice period, let us quickly help you with the tips for serving the notice period. Here you will learn what to do during notice period. 

Do’s of serving the notice period

Communicate professionally

First things first. The initial step to your notice period is to inform your employers about your resignation formally and professionally. Schedule a meeting with your immediate supervisor or HR to discuss your departure and clarify any questions or concerns. This provides your employer with ample time to find a replacement or make necessary adjustments in the workflow. 

Complete pending tasks

The primary objective of fulfilling a notice period is to complete all your pending tasks and assignments and to hand over ongoing projects to ensure a seamless transition for your team, facilitating a smooth handover process from your side.

Train your replacement

Contribute to the training and onboarding process of your successor. Engage in knowledge transfer (KT) by sharing your expertise and offering valuable insights about your role to facilitate their understanding of their new responsibilities. 

Keep that productivity going

During your notice period, it may be tempting to relax and take it easy. However, this can negatively affect your commitment, reputation, and future career opportunities. To ensure that you maintain a high level of dedication, continue to be as productive as you were before handing over your resignation letter. Carry out your responsibilities with the same level of enthusiasm and focus.

Maintain professionalism

No matter what your reasons are for resigning or leaving your current company. It’s best to maintain professionalism throughout your notice period, therefore avoid burning bridges or engaging in negative behavior.

Related: How to Answer “What is Your Notice Period?”- With Best Examples

Don’ts of serving the notice period

Don’t violate company policies

It is important to follow company policies and procedures, even if you disagree with them or feel they no longer apply to you. Failure to comply during the notice period may result in disciplinary measures or harm your professional standing, which could affect your future references and career opportunities.

Don’t neglect the handover procedure

As mentioned before, transferring knowledge is one of the most important parts of serving your notice period, therefore do not neglect this. Failing to document or share vital information can cause disruptions and strain relationships with your former colleagues. This can have a negative impact on the team and the organization. 

Resign without notice period

Avoid disappearing without giving a prior notice. Resigning without notice period and abandoning your responsibilities before your notice period shows a lack of discipline and commitment from your end and can most definitely impact your reputation. 

Don’t leave on a bad note

Avoid bragging about your new company, or indulging in gossip. Refrain from speaking negatively about your current employer, colleagues, and the company. Engaging in such negative behavior or making negative comments can have a bad impact on your character and potentially hinder your future career prospects.

Dont leave without a formal goodbye mail

On your last day of the notice period, it is recommended to write a formal goodbye email to leave a positive impression, even though you have already informed your HR or team members about your resignation. Use this email as a chance to express gratitude for the support, guidance, and knowledge you gained from the organization.

Conclusion

It is important to approach your notice period with complete dedication, professionalism, and commitment to fulfilling your responsibilities until your last working day. By following these guidelines and tips to serve your notice period you can leave your current job on a positive note and maintain your reputation as a reliable professional. Remember that how you handle your notice period can have a long-term effect on your colleagues and potentially affect your future career prospects, references, and recommendations.


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All the best for your future endeavors. 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Can I resign without notice period?

In India, it’s generally not advisable to resign without notice period due to potential legal and financial consequences. It’s essential to review your employment contract and discuss the situation with your employer to find a mutually agreeable solution.

Can we take leave during notice period?

It is usually possible to request leave during your notice period, however, this is dependent on your company’s policies and the terms mentioned in your contract.  It’s advisable to discuss your plans with your employer and get approval for a leave during the notice period.

How many days should I serve notice period for resignation?

The duration of your notice period completely depends on your employment contract and company policies. To know what is the notice period in your current company, consult with your HR department for clarification.

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