This is it! You found your dream job and it’s time to tell your boss that you’re leaving and give your two weeks’ notice. But do you really have to give them two weeks or can you just hand in your resignation and walk?
Here’s Five Fast Facts About Two Weeks Notice:
- 🖊️ Lawless - Unless you have a contract or are in a union, there is no law on the books that requires employees to give two weeks notice. It’s actually a courtesy and one of the benefits of an at-will job.
- 🏓 Fair Play - On the other hand, your employer doesn’t have to accept your notice and can end your employment immediately. At-will employment still applies here. It’s a common practice and most of the time it’s not done out of malice.
- 🤝 Be Kind - Two weeks has become the standard because it gives your employer time to look for a replacement and time for you to finish your current work or transition it to a lucky schlub. It’s important to remember your departure will affect others, both intentionally and unintentionally. You may be sticking it to your boss, but co-workers (who are decent folks) are going to have to deal with the wreckage.
- 💸 Where’s My Money? - Regardless of what happens, don’t expect your final paycheck to hit your bank until the regular pay period ends.
- ✌️ Deuces - There are cases where it’s totally acceptable to quit without notice, including a hostile work environment, legal issues and family emergencies.
🔥Bottom line: If you’re going to quit, do it under the assumption it’s going to end right then and there. Have important stuff off your computer, your contacts backed up and so on. You may think you have the upper hand in this case, but your employer always has the power in their hands. Be prepared for them to wield it.
Do you think everyone should give two weeks notice?
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