I received an email last Thursday indicating that a client was no longer available because she served her resignation notice. She quit on a Thursday. I have yet to get the details regarding why she left abruptly, but I started to think why employees walk out the door before completing the notice period.
Fed Up!
There are some employees who are fed up with the work they do. They are tired of the overwhelming amount of work performed, co-workers who do the bare minimum, or with an arrogant boss. While the economy might be tough, and the job market soft, they don’t care. It’s time to make a move, and there is no reason to stay any longer.
Demotion
I know of a few colleagues who jumped ship when they were moved down in rank. In some cases, the pay was going to be the same, such as with a lateral move, but the position was inferior. The problem with a demotion is saving face. It’s difficult to look co-workers in the eyes when everyone is aware of the embarrassing situation.
What if you are now reporting to someone who used to report to you? As one can imagine, this is not any fun, and this will likely result in people looking for the nearest Exit. While some folks might look on the bright side and be thankful they are still employed, the majority will be resentful.
Preempting Getting Fired
Most of us have been in the situation in which the writing is on the wall. You might be skilled and hard-working employees, but your manager thinks otherwise. I’ve observed situations in which a mandate was made to cut employees by 10% in every department. If you are not well-liked by your boss, it’s obvious that you’d better start packing.
Should you wait to be fired, or is it better to quit first? I suppose HR law might influence your decision, but some people are unwilling to wait for the pink slip. Instead, they take a proactive role, and make the first move.
Let’s see how this conversation might go …
Employee: Nancy, I want to chat with you about something important.
Nancy: What’s up?
Employee: Well, I’m no longer happy here. I think it’s time for me to move on to something new.
Nancy: Ok. I guess you’ve made up your mind, right?
Employee: I hear that we are going to cut the staff, and you and I haven’t always been on the same page.
Nancy: It’s too early to tell how the cuts will take place.
Employee: I guess … but it’s time for me to go.
Quitting abruptly is tough because of the unknown. You are not sure exactly how the next paycheck will be earned. However, I have left a job before, and I remember the liberating feeling that comes from making this move. The drive home is peaceful when you take a step that you feel is right for you.