On the job with Rania: Burning bridges is not advisable

From the moment you give a notice of resignation to your last day on the job, the countdown can be a serious test of your patience and social skills.

With a new job offer in your hands, you might be tempted to say goodbye and take off without notice. Don't! Abandoning a job is not only unfair to the employer, it is also violates your labour obligations which can forfeit some of your financial entitlements. That is why there is no option except to go through the notice period — unless your employer explicitly asks to leave immediately.

However, it may help if you work the notice period knowing that it isn't business as usual. Changes and challenges in your work environment are expected to make it awkward, and it is your role to survive it unscathed. The first challenge you can expect is the balance between your desire to take a hands-off approach and the necessity to continue to do your best to the last day.

Another challenge can be your ability to deal with the spiralling gossip regarding your motives to resign and your future job, if any. You'll have to decide what and how much to share to make sure you're inciting others or making them resent the workplace, and you're not effectively taking part in the gossip circle. Here are a few tips on how to navigate the notice period without so much stress for yourself or co-workers:

Departure aside

It is natural that if you, as a team member is leaving, the rest will be reviewing their positions and whether they should be taking similar moves as well. Keeping your resignation news alive along with convenient gossip may trigger concerns regarding its impact on staff retention. That is, once the news is made public, try to get back to the daily rhythm as soon as possible and don't stress on why you're quitting to the public. Put your foot down when it comes to curious coworkers who won't give up on knowing every detail to feed new rumours, and make it clear that you'd rather not to discuss your resignation any further. One easy way to keep the discussion within control is to remain occupied and focused on the job.

Rights and duties

Most employers will be grateful to have an employee who uneventfully serves the notice period and ensures a smooth transition. However, if your employer is concerned regarding your access to confidential information or uneasy about your presence — particularly if you're moving to a rival business — you might be asked to leave immediately. In this case, it is good to know that the UAE labour law protects your right to get paid for the notice period that is specified in your contract. However, if it is your decision to leave immediately, you are risking losing this pay and being in violation of your own contract and the law. So don't even consider skipping the notice period unless you're explicitly asked to leave immediately. If you're confused, check with a local lawyer to be sure you're on the safe side.

Last impression

A notice period can turn very hectic. In addition to performing a usual workload you may find yourself involved in hiring, training and handing over your duties to a replacement. Last impressions matter and, therefore, it is important to do your best professionally and remain friendly and neutral — more than usual — when it comes to office politics. Needless to say, avoid any clashes or exchanges in your last days. Even if a fight does not seem to hurt you if you've already decided to leave, the damage it might cause in terms of burning bridges is unnecessary.

Don't take it personally

Changes in the way work is distributed and decisions that are made during your last working days may make you uncomfortable. For example, you might be excluded from meetings that involve future planning and some of your duties might seem to be channelled somewhere else. This sort of phasing out your involvement should not be taken personally. It is the employer's right to be cautious and protect any possibly confidential plans. A relaxed and positive attitude can go a long way in dealing with these issues. Just keep your eye on the priority of ending your service gracefully and moving on.

Points to note