When should I tell my employer I'm leaving??

Editorial Team / Admin · Jun 10, 2017

You need to find the resignation policy for your employer. That will have the specifics of how much notice you must give and the specifics regarding vacation time.

Career Columnist / Author · Jun 10, 2017

So I'm currently a nurse in PA. I'm currently trying to move to Houston, Texas and I have several hospital offers that I'm trying to chose from. My start date that I told the future employers is September 1. Currently it is still June. I was wondering if I accept a position this week when is a good time to tell my manager I am leaving? I also have vacation time scheduled in August so I'm afraid if I put in my letter of resignation this morning or next month I will lose out on PTO And vacation time. I was wondering if anyone knew for sure if my scheduled vacation time would be lost? I also don't want to wait too long to tell my employer Bc what if they call her for a reference or employment check? Someone help me pleaseeeee

If it were me, I'd give notice 2 weeks notice about 4 weeks before my new start date. This is to allow time to relocate but not go too long without income. It happens more in management than clinical nursing, but sometimes an employer will waive the notice and let you go at the tie of notice.

The date you offered as a start date will most likely not be your actual start date as they will coordinate hiring activities and established orientation dates.

Typically any accrued PTO is paid out with your severance check. Confirming with HR as Rose Queen suggested is a good idea. Best wishes!

Editorial Team / Admin · Jun 10, 2017

If it were me, I'd give notice 2 weeks notice about 4 weeks before my new start date.]

Provided that OP's employer only requires two weeks to remain eligible for rehire and not have other potential employers told that she is not eligible for rehire. My facility requires 4 weeks notice for licensed employees. Another reason to ensure she follows her current employer's policy.

Tacomaboy3 · Jun 13, 2017

You need to look in your contract. Generally, two-weeks notice is the rule. If you start September 1st at your new job, give your current employer notice in the middle of August (assuming two-weeks notice is in your contract).

If you give notice earlier than what is expected in the contract, you run the risk of your employer terminating you on the spot. That means lost income.

All this also depends on the relationship you have with your manager. Feel it out. If you're unsure, giving proper notice per your contract would be ideal, responsible, and you'd be eligible for rehire.

Cvepo · Jun 14, 2017

Most places require 2 weeks, but check your contract/policy. Ideally, your manager should know sooner. I told my manager when I was applying for jobs/relocating, because you usually have to list your current manager for them to contact. I figured I would rather give them the heads up than have them receive an awkward phone call. It could come off as poor communication and reliability on your part if your new manager finds out your current manager has no idea you're leaving. It would be a red flag in my eyes.

That being said, if you have offers, the sooner the better. Most managers can post jobs far in advance if they know you are leaving, so they can replace you as soon as you leave, shortening the time your unit will be down a nurse. Be courteous.