Often we move jobs because we really dislike the job, management or co-workers. We rarely leave a job we enjoy, working the required notice can be a chore we don't want to do, and sometimes we behave badly. How we manage ourselves during the notice period can be a positive or a negative experience, which could have long term consequences.
NursesAnnouncementsArchiveArticle
So you have decided to leave your current job, you've had enough of working hard, no teamwork, you don't like your boss, co-worker, management, the drive is too long, the acuity is too high, you never get a break and you hate bedside nursing. Yes there are numerous reasons why you want to leave and get a new job, I could go on for pages for the reasons nurses are leaving their job but this article is about how to manage yourself while you are working out your notice.
Whatever the reason I personally believe there is a way to give your notice in and leave gracefully. Don't shut the door behind you, leave it ajar. Trust me you just never know if you might need to go back, or how your reputation could follow you.
Do not let your work slide during your notice period, make sure you maintain your high standards and do not slack off. Hold your head high no matter what the circumstances are that caused you to leave your job in the first place. Remember you are still being paid to do your job, and it is no excuse to say 'it's not my problem, I'm leaving'
Employers will be contacted for references; most HR departments will only provide dates of employment and will not get involved with lengthy discussions, however they are allowed to answer No when asked if they would rehire. This one word speaks volumes, sometimes new employers will take their time obtaining references, so how you behave in your notice period could have a devastating effect.
Make sure you give the required amount of time as specified by HR, this can be anywhere from 2-4 weeks depending on your position. Inform your manager as soon as you can, so they can prepare for the inevitable. Schedules may need to be changed, they appreciate as much advanced notice as possible. Put your notice in writing, giving your last working day. Keep it simple and to the point, you do not have to give a reason for leaving.
If they allow you, sign on PRN which will let you keep that foot in the door!
No matter how much you hate your job, work your notice! you should not just walk out without working the required notice. People talk and talk follows, you would be surprised how small the HR community is within healthcare and heads up is often given. I often read on allnurses.com that RNs hate their job so much that they walk out without notice which is just not professional.
Do not under any circumstances 'bad mouth' your current employer, it is not tasteful and causes concerns that you do not have loyalty. It is suffice to say that it wasn't the job for you and you are moving on because you want new opportunities. Be professional at all times, I know you will want to run through the halls singing and shouting at the top of your voice about the news of your new job, but try some restraint.
Be positive during your notice period, the weeks will soon count down and before you know it you will be heading through the door for the last time. You have choices; you can either slam the door shut or gently pull the door to, allowing it to creep open if you need it.
Do not commit professional suicide by being miserable, and informing all and sundry how you have to wait for weeks before you can leave, be upbeat and cheerful. I cannot tell you how many people I have worked with who begrudge working their notice and let everybody know that they don't want to be there. There is often huge sigh of relief when they do go, which is a poor reflection on that person. Being resentful has such negative connotations especially with your co-workers who chose to stay
Think before you slam, your current position may be not what you want but you have a long career road in front of you, life tends to be full of twists and turns so you can never say never!
