Technology has changed the way that we interact with the world around us, including our work practices.
More and more companies are seeing the benefits of allowing employees to work remotely.
Because of this, many people have found themselves working a remote job. Which then means that people also may have to quit a remote job at some point.
But how do you quit a remote job? What are the proper resignation practices for remote work?
There are a few practices that one should follow when quitting a remote job, read below to learn more.
Contents
How Do I Give My Two Weeks’ Notice Remotely?
Resigning from a remote job is a lot like resigning from any other job, and it’s important that you follow the same basic rules.
For instance, be sure to remain polite and concise. Give your employer a clear reason as to why you’re quitting, and always give at least two weeks whenever possible.
Be kind, be courteous, and always thank your employer for the experience, whether it was a good one or not. Doing so may help you with future ventures.
You may choose a method of communication to resign. If you have access to your office in person, it may be best to travel into the office to submit your resignation letter and have a conversation with your boss face to face.
However, if you live too far away from the central office, another form of communication will do just fine. No matter which way you choose, be sure to also submit a resignation letter in writing for record keeping before you quit.
Is It Ok To Resign Via Email?
One of the most common ways to resign from a remote job is to do so through email. While it is technically an acceptable way to resign from a remote job, we always recommend informing your manager via a conversation first, whether via a Zoom call or phone call.
In general, a conversation is a little bit more personal and professional, so it’s best to do that up front, and then send a follow up email with a formal resignation letter included.
Is It Ok to Resign Via Phone?
There are many ways to resign from a remote job. If we were to rank order the most professionally methods to resign, it would be in the following way:
- In-Person
- Zoom Call
- Phone Call
- Text message
It’s also acceptable to resign via a combination of these options.
Resigning via a phone call is a completely acceptable method. Just be sure that you also submit a resignation letter via email after your call. While it’s not required in all cases, it is often important for record keeping and HR processes for the company.
Make sure that you choose an appropriate time for the phone call, usually end of day or midday on a Monday works best. Use clear language, and be courteous, patient, and kind. If you’re feeling angry or emotional, always try to control any outbursts. You may need to use your former employer as a reference down the line.
How Do I Hand In My Two Weeks’ Notice Remotely?
You may be a little confused about how to hand in your resignation when you’re not in an office to do so. There are many ways to hand in your two weeks’ notice remotely. The most popular way to send in your resignation remotely is by emailing it as a document. This is the easiest way, and makes it easy on your boss to access, print, and forward it to applicable parties.
Alternatively, you may also fax your resignation letter, or mail a physical copy to the office. Be sure that you have more than one copy of the resignation letter should something go wrong. When submitting your resignation letter, it’s best to combine your chosen method with something more professional, like a phone call or Zoom meeting.
How to Quit a Remote Job: Best Practices
As with any job resignation, there are a few best practices that you should follow to produce the smoothest process possible.
These practices are:
Inform Your Boss First Via Conversation
A little bit of courtesy goes a long way, so it’s always recommended that you sit down with your boss to mention your intent to resign via a conversation first. This conversation can take place over Zoom, or via a phone call. Sometimes, an employer will counteroffer as a method to keep an employee. This is beneficial if your reason for resignation is primarily financial, or something equally resolvable. This is courteous and will be remembered should your boss have to give reference in the future.
Be Positive
Staying positive and kind is always important, especially when resigning. As tempting as it may be to tell off a manager you didn’t like, or air dirty laundry, try to remain as cordial as possible. The more positive you are toward your old employer and team, the better it will serve you in the future, even if they don’t deserve it. Don’t burn bridges that you may need to walk over again.
Provide Enough Time
It’s always recommended that you give your boss at least a two weeks’ notice when you’re looking to resign from your job. However, if you can’t give a full two weeks, try to at least give one full working week, and resign on a Monday. Try to be courteous of the process and offer to train any replacement if applicable.
Stay Present
All too often do people “check out” from their current job as they anticipate a new one to start. Remain engaged and present until your very last minute, on your very last day. This reflects well upon you, and it may serve you later. It’s also the decent thing to do, no matter how you look at it.
Return Property
This should go without saying, but it’s ignored more often than you’d imagine. Be sure to return all company property before you leave. This includes badges, gadgets, and anything else that was loaned to you to help you do your job. Should something to unclear, always be sure to ask your employer before you leave. This does not include items that you, yourself have bought, such as shoes and other clothing items.
For more best practices on how to resign professionally, please take a look at our article on how to resign professionally.
Conclusion
Leaving your remote job may be stressful, especially if you’ve never had to resign from a remote job before. Overall, resigning from a remote job is a lot like resigning from an in-office job. Be sure to remain kind and professional, and to always follow the best practices when possible. Most of all, keep your head up and get excited, for new adventures are coming!
