First, read your current contract

Before you start your job search, make sure you check your contract to see what your notice period is as hiring managers and recruiters will ask you this in your interview. Also, make sure you check whether your contract has a ‘restrictive covenant’ clause, which means you can’t work for a competitor or contact former clients.

Don’t burn your bridges

Before you hand in your notice to your current employer, make sure your new employer has sent you an official contract for your new role.

Plan a good time to speak to your manager

Find out what time your manager is available for a chat so you can speak to them personally. Having a chat with your boss will allow you to discuss the reasons why you are leaving, discuss the next steps and thank your boss for the opportunities that they have given you. Remember you want them to give you a reference, so try to leave on a positive note.

Prepare for the conversation

Before you speak to your boss, think through what you would say if they gave you a counteroffer.

It might be tempting to stay but remember why you wanted a new job in the first place. Only 12% of employers resign due to money. So, make sure you think carefully before you accept a counteroffer. You don’t want to be in the same position where you want a new job in a few months’ time.

Write your resignation letter

When you resign make sure you put it in writing to make it definite once you have spoken to your boss.

Here is what you should include in your resignation letter:

• Your name
• The date
• The position you are resigning from
• Addressed to the appropriate person
• When your resignation will take effect
• Reason for leaving
• Thank your current employer
• Your signature

Handing over your job

You want to be remembered in a good light, so while you serve your notice period, make sure you give your team handover notes of any outstanding tasks that will need to be done.

You never know when you might need a former colleague.

Honour your notice period

Once you have handed in your notice, it doesn’t mean that you should slack off. Make sure you maintain your standard of work and be professional, so you leave on good terms and don’t burn any bridges.

Good luck with your next role, we wish you all the best from all of us at S-SA Digital!