There are resources galore when it comes to hiring tips and strategies for acing an interview and securing a job offer. Not often discussed is the topic of how to quit an existing job in a way that leaves relationships strong and bridges unburned. Most hiring managers contact at least one prior employer as a reference before making a hiring decision for any role. No matter your reason for leaving a position, it’s important to do so with professionalism in mind so that the transition out is smooth and that the employer won’t have negative things to say in a potential reference check down the road. In hospitality, growth within the industry comes from creating and maintaining strong relationships with others. So, making an effort to leave others set up for success even after your departure is wise.
Give at Least a Two Weeks Notice
Standard notice within the hospitality industry is two weeks, meaning employees are advised to give current employers notice of resignation before their official employment end date. While that is best practice, some organizations prefer a longer notice. Clarify with your human resources department or look for that clarification in your contract to ensure you abide by organizational expectations. As far as the medium used to give notice, there are a few that are most commonly used.
Giving notice of resignation in writing is most professional, as it creates a documentation trail that might be useful if any employment issues arise in the future. For those with closer relationships with their managers or organization, giving notice in person might be preferred as it is the more personal option. However, it’s best to accompany this with a written letter to be safe. It’s not recommended to quit a position over the phone or via text message.
Offer to Aid in Transition Preparations
When you give proper notice of resignation, you give your employer the chance to find and hire a replacement for your position. In ideal circumstances, that person starts prior to you leaving to allow time for onboarding and training. Offering to help during the transition shows employers that though you may be leaving the organization, you still support the team in making it successful. Often, tips and tricks for performing a role well are learned over time. So, having someone who has been in the position to help with training also means new employees can learn those insider tips in order to help them perform effectively.
Express Gratitude Where Due
Not all working relationships are strong and supportive. In some employee resignation cases, negative interactions with colleagues or supervisors are a driving factor in them deciding to quit. However, it’s likely that at least some relationships you leave behind as a departing employee are strong. After notifying management of resignation, it’s professional courtesy to inform coworkers as well. In doing so, express thanks to those who’ve had a positive impact on your employee experience while with the organization.
Doing so has a couple of positive implications. Managers aren’t the only colleagues that get asked for references. There is a chance that a future employer might ask for a reference from a former coworker who was not a manager. Having former colleagues prepared to vouch for your work ethic is huge. Also, the hospitality industry runs on connections, and often you may hear about new opportunities through former coworkers. Keep your network strong or potentially miss out on those opportunities down the road.
Finish the Current Role on a High Note
For those in their final two weeks of employment with an organization, it’s tempting to put forth a lack of effort when it comes to job responsibilities. However, those final shifts will leave a lasting impression in the minds of managers and coworkers. Slacking off shows a lack of respect as it means others have to take on additional responsibilities while also performing their own role.
Meet with human resources to finalize the transition prior to the last day. There is often required paperwork or exit interviews or surveys to complete. While there, clarify any uncertainties regarding organizational policies – specifically and signed NDAs or non-competes in effect. While not commonplace in hospitality, some organizations do require applicants to sign these agreements before beginning employment. Depending on the verbiage in the agreement, it may prohibit individuals from actions such as:
- working for a competitor for a length of time post-employment
- sharing confidential company information with those not employed by the company
Ensuring you fully understand any signed agreements means you can protect yourself from any legal issues due to violating those terms even when you are no longer employed by the company.
Finding a New Opportunity in Hospitality
Prior to putting in notice at a current employer, it’s a smart idea to secure another role to not have a long pause in income. Within the hospitality industry, there are several channels available for those looking for a new opportunity, including job fairs, online job boards, and staffing agencies. It’s often hard to filter through the multitude of opportunities to find a role that is in your area and truly suited to your strengths and interests.
We’ve created a comprehensive database of current hospitality job opportunities with filters built in to narrow down your search by job function and location. Once you find a role that fits what you’re looking for, applying takes just five minutes and a few clicks to submit. Starting a new job is exciting, but just be sure to end the one you have professionally.