Christmas Podding: Day 16 – Handling Resignations in December 🎄

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.