how do I quit my job?

There seems ot be a bit of a generation gap going on - whawt is and isn’t expected in quitting this job?

I want to wait and only give the standard two weeks notice, but there’s a bit of a heavy workload right now and they’ll really need as much notice as they can get. I’ve known for several months that I’m planning on leaving in about a month from now, but for obvious reasons have kept mum.

Should I go ahead and give them a one-month notice, or just wait and give the standard two weeks? I’m afraid that if I give notice so far in advance, they’ll get uppity and tell me to just pack my bags now.

What’s the word on unused sick leave and vacation time? I’ve only heard recently that you’re supposed to be able to get that stuff in cash. I had just assumed that it went to waste. What’s the word on this - does this differ by company policies, or is it state law?

What about the actual notice - do I need to put it in writing, or just deliver my notification verbally?

You will get paid for your unused vacation time, but not your sick time.

The amount of notice you give your employer is your choice (providing you live in a right to work state). Some places will appreciate an early notice so that you can help in finding your replacement, and with training; while others don’t like the idea of someone who isn’t fully devoted to the company hanging around. It mostly depends on your relationship with your management.

It’s always a good idea to give formal notice in writing, if you want to give someone informal notice, that can be verbal.

Unless you have a contract that specifies otherwise, there is no notice requirement. Two weeks is customary but not the law. If you are leaving on good terms, provide as much notice as you can. If you fear retribution, give the standard or less (with the knowledge that giving less than two weeks constitutes burning a bridge).

Check your employee handbook for information on payouts on unused vacation and sick time. I don’t believe there’s any law governing this but I could certainly be wrong. The companies I’ve worked for tend to pay out the accumulated vacation time but not the sick time. If it’s that much of a concern, take the time before you quit. If you have benefits and don’t have something else immediately lined up, set your last day for after the first of the month so your coverage will continue to the end of that month.

Write a short note advising your supervisor that you are leaving and that x will be your last day. There is no need for you to provide a reason that you’re leaving if you don’t wnt to. Give the note to your supervisor personally and explain what it is at that time.

I doubt that you’ll get fired early for giving notice, especially if they’re so in need of people because of the workload.

Two weeks is standard, unless you’re in an upper management position. My boss has known for at least two months now that she’s leaving, but there’s no rush to push her out the door. (Thank God!)

It depends on your new job. If your new job needs you to start in two weeks, give two weeks’ notice. Believe me, your old job will manage. I was the only person in my old job who did my function (and it was a huge responsibility) and I gave two weeks’ notice. They were very quick on finding someone I could train to take my place.

It’s not your worry to make sure your old job will survive without you. They did without you before you worked there, and they’ll make it after you leave.

I would give notice myself. I have done so in the past and it seems to always be appreciated. When I have done so, I have usually had a great relationship with my boss, and so it is easier. But by being willing to do so, you show that you care about the co-workers, the company and you help to not burn bridges. If you give them the best you can, you can always count on a great reference in the future.

Wishing you luck and hapiness in your new career.

I meant to say “I would give as much notice as possible.” I understand that you plan to give the regular notice.

It all depends upon the relationship you have with your company. Yes, two weeks is standard. Unless it’s a complete hell-hole, you should give at least two weeks’ notice. If you feel more comfortable, however, and are certain your company won’t fire you after your giving notice, talk to your boss about the possibility of sticking around for another month, and possibly training your replacement so the transition will be smoother.

Also, I think you should put notice in writing. I think many companies require that you put it in writing, but even if they don’t, you should. It covers your ass (if you don’t put it in writing and ask for a reference later, your boss could say “Oh, he/she left without giving any notice - he/she is a pretty irresponsible employee”), and it’s also more professional. As stated earlier, you don’t have to say why you’re leaving in the letter - just that you are and that X will be your last day. And if I were you, I wouldn’t just drop it on your boss’ desk while he or she is out - sit down and hand it to him or her and talk to them about it. You don’t have to tell them specifically why you’re leaving, you could just say you’re looking for new opportunities or something vague like that.

Also, sick time and vacation pay usually varies by company - I think. Ask HR - they’ll be able to tell you. It may be negotiable - it was the last place I quit, anyway, but that’s just one place. Anyway, best of luck.

Are you going to another job, or moving or what? Just curious.

This is not necessarily the case. Check your company’s policy (discreetly, I might add) to see if this is true for you.

Lots of good advice here. Companies set their own policies for paying out accrued leave. However, in some states (notably California) there are requirements for paying out certain types of leave. Discreetly look into both the laws and the policies relevant to you, to make sure nothing is overlooked.

You sound like the company is big enough it should have a policy manual or at least some formal policies. Inquire discreetly if you know someone in the office that won’t squeal. Otherwise 2 weeks is the generally expected standard notice.

You sound like the company is big enough it should have a policy manual or at least some formal policies. Inquire discreetly if you know someone in the office that won’t squeal. Otherwise 2 weeks is the generally expected standard notice.

[slight hijack] If the company you are going to work for says they can’t wait for you to give the 2 weeks notice and they need you now, RUN.
It will not be a good place to work. [/sh]

Give your notice in writing. If you have a close relationship with your immediate boss it is nice to tell them first. Two weeks notice is standard; a month for management. Find out what your company requires to leave in good standing and “be eligible for rehire” which is one question they will be asked if you ever use them as a reference.