The decision to leave a job isn’t always an easy one. Instead, many employees go back and forth for a while before they make the decision to walk away from a company.
California is an at-will employment state, which means that the employer or employee can terminate the mutual relationship at any time and without any reason. The only exception to this is that employers can’t terminate someone for an illegal reason, such as discrimination or retaliation.
If you’re considering leaving a job, remember these three points:
1: Your resignation may lead to immediate termination
Some employers remove employees from the schedule when they resign. The employee can’t continue to work out the duration of their notice. Be prepared for this before you turn in the statement that you’re leaving.
2: Your employment contract must be honored
If you have an employment contract and are resigning in accordance with it, all other terms of the contract must be upheld. This includes receiving any and all pay that’s due to you.
3: Preserve your reference, if possible
One of the most important things you should do is to remain calm when you turn in your resignation notice. Your behavior may play a role in your ability to get a good reference from the company. If you’re continuing to work at the company for a specific period of time, continue to do your job duties to the best of your ability.
If your employer fails to comply with the laws, including wage and hour requirements, you may opt to pursue legal action when you leave your job. Discuss your case with someone familiar with these matters so you can formulate a plan.
