13 Dec 2000 »
pjf: going, going, gone…
Paul, just in case you’re stuck, the deal with those sort of letters is:
be brief – one, maybe two paragraphs of a couple of sentences each maximum
do not slag anyone off or burn bridges
just say “You’ve been wonderful to work for, but I need to …”
do not waste effort stating the reasons you’re moving or tell them what you’re doing next
be factual; include the last date you are going to be there and be firm about it
I like to tie my finish date to pay runs so there’s a _last_ pay which should contain all your accrued benefits and you never need to return once you’ve packed your desk.
Two weeks is the minimal acceptable period, four is typical. They are legally required to send you a group tax certificate within a short time of you leaving. Make sure you get it. I didn’t a couple of times, and it’s never stopped giving me grief.
If you have personal stuff that you really care about, take it home Thursday night (this includes data!), just in case your employer has a selectively enforced “escorted off the premises” termination policy. I’ve seen people go this way, and it’s never pretty. Bring any stuff you have at home they own back in on Friday morning. They usually give you like 5 minutes to pack your desk in these situations.
Just remember, this letter is business, not personal – even though personal reasons are the reason everone does stuff.
Good luck!
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