So, I’ve given several two week notices throughout my career. Unfortunately, I recently had to give one over the phone instead of in person. I only report to one guy and he was on vacation. I could have just given it to HR but that would have felt scummy. I called him and gave him my notice then sent him a letter of resignation. Feels bad man. Anyone else ever have to give a two week notice in an awkward/unfortunate way?
I think it’s remarkable that you and several other folks actually give notice. Now-a-days, I think that’s somewhat unusual.
A lot of people just bounce. Sometimes they don’t even bother telling anyone, they just don’t show up and stop picking up the phone. I hear about this happening regularly at my husband’s workplace (which to be fair is retail).
I told my last boss when I began reaching final round interviews so that he could plan accordingly. A lot of people thought that was risky and that I should’ve just quietly lined up my next job and told him I was leaving once I’d accepted, but I liked him and liked the work (it was lab research. I wasn’t a big-time scientist, but I’d been managing the lab for a while and actually gave a shit about what we did).
Regarding your situation, I think you did what you could and showed a lot more integrity than is common. Could you have stayed until your boss was back from vacation and then given a proper notice? If so, well… then maybe you should’ve. If not… then it’s unfortunate, but there wasn’t much I think you could’ve done.
I always give notice, it’s courteous and maintains bridges.
Some of my contracts have specified a notice period, my current one says 4 weeks or they can pay me out.
I would only bounce if I never planned on using a job as a reference and had worked there a very short period.
Even then it can be dangerous. People move around, and people talk. The people burned can show up again later in so many different ways, in both official and unofficial capacities. I currently work near (different teams, same org) several of my former co-workers, purely by coincidence.
It wouldn’t be a career-ender if I’d screwed them over in the past, but it does make things easier that they have positive experiences with me.
People who just disappear I assume are going to have it much worse later on. I’ve literally been connected with hiring managers from people I’ve handed notice to. I don’t think they realize that you’re not just giving the finger to your boss, but everyone you worked with. Not everyone there was bad, chances are someone else someday will have a sweet job, and it’s better for them to think of you as someone who left politely just like they did vs disappearing and leaving them with a ton of work attempting to pick up the pieces.
The only time i didnt give notice is because i never wanted to work in that industry again lol
I usually give 1-2 weeks though because thats the max they would ever give me if they decided to fire me anyways. Give what you get kind of vibes.
Yeah, unfortunately it could not have waited as my start date at the new job is too soon. My current boss was great and I learned so much from him. Felt wrong to do it over the phone but I couldnt think of a better alternative.