If manager asks about new job when I give notice.....do I tell????

RGN1 · Mar 28, 2011

If you're giving your notice what does it matter?

caliotter3 · Mar 28, 2011

Well, do you want them to know or not? I would not give out the info because I would be concerned that someone might get the idea to make a phone call or two that might not be in my best interests. It is not uncommon for this to occur. Let them figure it out from other sources.

kimbalotz · Mar 28, 2011

Well I just didn't know if it were customary to discuss this sort if thing when giving notice. And if course, it matters. You never know when paths may cross again! I want to leave on a good, professional note, and not look like a bumbling idiot, or worse, a liar.

kimbalotz · Mar 28, 2011

Ok, so what DO I say?

tablefor9, RN · Mar 28, 2011

Guess that depends on what you think the worst case scenario would be, either way.

MurrR · Mar 28, 2011

When I gave notice at my last job I told them I was taking a position working for a group home agency. I shared what kind of work I was going to do, but skimmed over the name of the agency or even which home I'd be at.

If they ask for more details, I'd change the subject gently to things like when to expect your last paycheck, any changes to your schedule, and maybe make a small token statement of gratitude for the opportunity to have worked with them. Even if you hated your job, at least they taught you all about what you hate so now you can avoid it in the future!

ninaricci · Mar 28, 2011

If asked about the new job I would reply: "I want you to know I appreciate the time that I have worked here and the experience that has gone with it. the job I am taking is a better fit for me right now." Hopefully she will get that you weren't specific because you don't want to be, yet you are being polite. If she asks again i would say, "until I start I prefer not to say as until then nothing is set in stone." As with any suggestions or advice...you can take it or leave it. Personally I would not be comfortable disclosing information on a new opportunity for several reasons, but mostly I would like to get my footing first before sharing it with a past employer.

microtutor · Mar 28, 2011

I am not a nurse, I am only a student. But I had a 12 year career programming computers, and I remember this problem from my former career. When you resigned they would *always* ask "Where are you going?" and I wouldn't always want to say. Not so much out of fear they would unrecommend me, mostly because bosses and coworkers would immediately get judgmental about it. "Oh, you're going there? That place sucks." Etc. A couple of times I even said "I'm not sure, I have some family business to attend to" to get out of telling them. They were so pushy, I swear...even if you said "I have a few offers" they'd be like "Where???" Glad those days are over.

CCL RN, RN · Mar 28, 2011

Do NOT tell them!! Your manager has already proven how honorable she isn't, and don't think for one minute that she won't do the same thing. And yes, the same thing can happen at your new job. I'd tell her you were taking a month long vacation first, and then look into work. Don't even mention the hospital. Don't do it, shes not safe...

Jolie, BSN · Mar 28, 2011

It is never necessary and rarely helpful to disclose your future plans when resigning a position. Not to mention that it is none of your employer's business. If you would rather not disclose your new job, then don't.

You didn't say how you plan to resign, or ask for advice on how to do so, so please feel free to ignore this:

Dear Nurse Manager,

I am writing to inform you that I am resigning my position as Staff Nurse on Med/Surg unit, effective at the end of my shift on Sunday, April 10, 2011. Thank you for the opportunity to serve this patient population for the past 2 years.

Sincerely,

Kimbalotz, RN

Batman25 · Mar 28, 2011

If you don't want them to know tell them in a firm but polite way that you are going to a position that is a better fit as mentioned above. It's honest and enough info for a place you have decided to leave. If they push and you'd prefer them not to know just thank them again for the opportunity and experience you gained with them and say goodbye. I don't typically share this info either. Not their business.