Think carefully
Quitting your job is a big and life-changing decision - so you should never make it lightly or on the spur of the moment. Think carefully about what you don't like about your job and weigh thoroughly whether quitting is the best solution to your problem. After all, there are bad days in every job - that's no reason to throw in the towel.
But underlying factors that contradict your personal beliefs and desires may be reason enough to draw a line and look for a new job. Here are a few examples:
- Poor payment
- No further development or career prospects
- A more attractive job offer in terms of payment, flexibility, etc.
- Conflicts with colleagues that interfere with a positive work atmosphere
- Personal circumstances such as relocation or health problems
- Incompatibility of own values or ethics with company goals
- Persistent dissatisfaction with the current work environment
- You can read more good reasons for a job change here: 7 good reasons for a job change
SIDE FACT
The fact that these factors will be among the most frequent reasons for quitting in 2023 is also shown by a study in the "StepStone Job Report 2023", which deals with demands that are becoming increasingly important for employees. According to the report, training opportunities are very important for 63% of respondents, 77% attach great importance to a work-life balance, 50% demand a higher salary and 38% insist on more flexibility.
Already made up your mind to quit your job? Then you face the next hurdle. How do I give notice properly? What do I need to consider? How do I tell my supervisor? We have summarized the most important points for you, if you want to quit your job in Austria.
When can I give notice?
The most important thing in the termination process is the question of the notice period and the termination date. Unless otherwise agreed in your employment contract, your notice period is one month and you can give notice at the end of each month. Some employers agree with their employees on a longer notice period (up to 3 months, in management positions even longer) and often the middle of the month is specified as a possibility for termination. Be sure to check your employment contract to see if you have agreed to a longer notice period and when your termination dates are.
You can find more information on labor law regulations at the Chamber of Labor.
In what form should I submit my notice of termination?
To avoid possible disputes, you should always submit your notice of termination in writing. This is also recommended by the Chamber of Labor. The letter should state the date of termination, your notice period and your last working day.
If you have a good relationship with your supervisor, verbal notice is sufficient, because verbal notice is also valid.
You want to give notice for the first time and are unsure how to formulate it?
How do I tell my supervisor?
You've decided to quit your job, prepared the resignation in writing and taken all deadlines into account correctly. Now nothing stands in the way of giving notice. Or maybe there is?
For many people, the biggest challenge is communicating the resignation to their supervisor. This can have two reasons
- You don't have a good relationship with your boss. He may be argumentative; you fear the conversation won't go well.
- You have a good relationship with your boss and your colleagues, and therefore you feel disloyal and do not want to disappoint your employer by giving notice.
In both cases the situation is unpleasant - but in the end there is no way around it. You can, however, give notice as professionally and respectfully as possible. Here are some tips:
- Personal meeting: You should never send your notice of termination by mail or without comment. A personal meeting shows respect and appreciation for your employer. Hand over your formal letter of resignation to your supervisor during the interview.
- Prepare: Think about your reasons for resigning in advance but avoid negative comments about the company. Stay factual and focus on your personal reasons.
- Professional demeanor: Keep the conversation professional and constructive. Stay calm and polite even if the conversation becomes emotional.
- Show gratitude and appreciation: Thank your successor for the opportunity to work at the company and take care of an optimal handover process to your successor.
