How to resign from work tactfully?

vixyash

(x-posted to SAHM board)

DH & I have slowly been coming to the realization that it is not the right time to go back to work with our preemie girl heading into flu season. My leave is over in a few weeks and I'm due to return toward the end of this month.

Of course I've been visiting work while out on leave and giving the pretense of returning as normal, because we weren't for sure and also I didn't want to forfeit any extra benefits by resigning earlier.

Now I'm terrified to actually give my notice. I feel like everyone expects I'll return (based on our conversations til now) and I worry how they'll take it when I formally resign. Especially my boss. But also my dear co-workers who I love and care for like a second family.

I know I shouldn't care so much, but I don't want to burn any bridges in case I want to return next year... any tips on how I should go about this tactfully? What were your experiences with quitting after/while on maternity leave?

SWMcFarland

You need to check into your laws regarding leave policies, such as short term disability reimbursement, etc.

 

KellyMichelle

Would your doc write you a letter saying that your baby shouldn't be in daycare?  I know our NICU doc did that for parents when DS was in the NICU. 

 

franciscaz

SWMcFarland:

You need to check into your laws regarding leave policies, such as short term disability reimbursement, etc.

 

 

Please make sure to do this!  Some companies expect full reimbursement.

I would make an appt with your boss and not just hand him the resignation but be honest and explain.  Also put your reasons in the letter as well.  Let you boss know if you can help with a transition

clyoungsey

How about FMLA?  If your work meets the criteria, you can take up to 4 months unpaid leave, that would get you thru flu season.

eacabraham@gmail.com

I'd be shocked if you haven't taken your FMLA already.  Definitely look into their short-term leave policies - what needs to be repaid, etc. - before you do this.

Write a letter - the practicalities involved in caring for your daughter make it impossible for you to return to work at this time.  This is a major change in your plans, and you hope to be able to assist your employers in the transition.  Additionally, you would like them to know how much you enjoyed working with for them, and that you will miss your friends and colleagues.  You hope that, sometime in the future, in some capacity, you are able to work with them again.  Make it as nice a letter as you can, while also making sure to state the bottom line.  Then make an appointment with your boss to say what you need to say and hand the letter over.

mek10976

I can't say I've had the option of resigning from work - not financially possible right now.  But I would hope that if you were just honest with your boss and explain the delicate nature of your daughters immune system, you feel it is best for her health if you resign until she is healthier.  No one can argue with putting a child's health first.  Also explain that you hope to return at a later date.  Also add something about this being a difficult decision for you to come to.

RubyRed7

Other than writing a letter and having a face to face talk to your boss, you might also want to ask for unpaid leave of absense? But that's only if you actually do want to go back to this job next year. Of course, they will likely say no! Because they will need the position filled. But at least you may have shown them that you do like your company and want to return some day. And when they deny your leave of absense to care for you baby, you can then apologize and say that you have no choice but to resign?

Let me know what you decide! It will be hard regarless...