Advice Hub

Christmas Podding: Day 16 – Handling Resignations in December 🎄

Video

Welcome back to the We Do Grotto, where the tinsel is tingling, bells are ringing, and the Christmas spirit is in full swing. But as festive as December can be, it’s not always smooth sailing – especially when someone hands in their resignation right before the holidays.

So, how do you handle it as a client? Here’s our advice:

  • Step 1: Don’t take it personally.
    It’s natural to feel a little emotional, but take a step back and avoid reacting. Instead, ask questions and listen carefully to the reasons behind the resignation. Understanding their perspective can help you decide if there’s a way to resolve the situation or move forward gracefully.
  • Step 2: Look internally first.
    Before jumping straight to external recruitment, assess whether there’s someone on your team who could step up. Promoting from within not only shows faith in your team but can also be faster and more cost-effective.
  • Step 3: Plan ahead.
    If an internal solution isn’t possible, start preparing for January.
    • Get the groundwork done in December – draft the job spec, start market mapping, or speak to your agency.
    • By planting the seeds early, you can hit the ground running in the new year with a clearer picture of the talent landscape.
  • Step 4: Keep the notice period positive.
    Even if someone’s leaving, maintain a supportive and professional environment during their notice period. Negative reactions can demotivate employees, which could affect their handover and leave a lasting impression.

Resignations at Christmas might not be ideal, but with the right approach, you can turn it into an opportunity for growth.

More from our Advice Hub

Insights

The Finance Talent You’re Overlooking (And Why They’re Leadership Material)

6 min read
Published 12 months ago
Leadership

How to Spot a Future Finance Leader (Before Your Competitor Hires Them)
The Best Future CFOs May Already in Your Team – Do You Know Who They Are?
 
Every business wants strategic,...

Read More
Video

The Real Reason Your Temps Don’t Last – And How to Fix It

You’ve just hired a temp. They’re brilliant. They’re not only speeding through...

Read More
Insights

Supercharge Your Hiring and Job Search with We Do Benchmark

2 min read
Published 2 years ago

Whether you’re looking to hire top talent or land your dream finance job, We Do Benchmark is here to make the process easier—and more fun! Have you tried our big red button yet? It’s...

Read More
Insights

AI in Commercial Finance and Accounting: Shaping the Future

3 min read
Published 2 years ago

As we venture further into the 21st century, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just the subject of science fiction—it’s a pivotal player in the commercial finance and accounting...

Read More
Insights

The Secret to Retaining Your Best Finance Talent (So They Don’t Jump Ship)

5 min read
Published 1 year ago
Team meeting

Your Best Finance People Are Quietly Job Hunting – Here’s How to Keep Them
 
You’ve hired a brilliant finance professional. They’re smart, commercially switched on, and exactly what...

Read More
Insights

We Just Need Someone Who Can Hit the Ground Running’ – The Hiring Mistake That’s Hurting Your Business

6 min read
Published 1 year ago

Ah, The Famous “Hit the Ground Running” Request…
Hiring managers say it all the time:
“We need someone who can hit the ground running.”
“We don’t have time for hand-holding.”
“We...

Read More