When resigning from a job, it’s essential to be aware of and effectively manage the notice period. The notice period is the duration between when we officially submit our resignation and our last working day at the company. Here are some points to consider.
1️⃣ CHECK YOUR EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT. Begin by reviewing our employment contract or offer letter. It usually specifies the notice period required. If the clause is absent, then the Employment Act will override, which mandates a minimum of 4 weeks and a maximum of 8 weeks.
2️⃣ NEGOTIATING NOTICE PERIODS. In some cases, we may have room to negotiate the notice period with our employer, especially if we have a new job offer with a different start date. However, this should be done professionally and with the consent of both parties.
If we want to shorten the notice period and attempt to have the company waive the notice in lieu penalty, the correct process is to officially request in writing. It’s then at the company’s discretion whether they will be willing to waive our notice period.
3️⃣ BUSINESS AS USUAL DURING NOTICE PERIOD. During the notice period, we’re expected to fulfil our job responsibilities as usual. This includes completing projects, handing over tasks, and assisting with the transition to the person who is taking over our task.
4️⃣ PAY AND BENEFITS. Clarify with HR how our pay and benefits will be handled during the notice period. It’s not uncommon for our last salary to be paid on a different date than our usual payday, and bonus and incentive rights may be forfeited. Regarding our annual leave balance, the company has the right to decide whether to encash it, offset it with our last working day, or use a combination of both.
For sick leave, we will still be entitled as usual and normally we will still be covered by group insurance until the last day of payroll.
5️⃣ EXIT PROCESS. Inquire about the company’s exit process. This might involve returning the company property, clearing our our workspace, or attending exit interviews before they release our last salary. Especially for expats, some company also requires a release letter from LHDN to confirm that we don’t have outstanding taxes before they release our final payment.
Maintain professionalism throughout notice period. It doesn’t matter if that same courtesy is not returned. Continue to contribute positive to the team and avoid engaging in any disruptive behaviour. And certainly, don’t be one ✌️
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