Your Job Search: The Job Offer

Now that you have accepted the new job, here’s how you should proceed.

1. Notice. Tell your current employer promptly with a written resignation. Company policy usually includes a preferred period of notice, while others may ask you to stay longer, and still others may ask you to leave immediately. Be prepared for either response. The norm is two weeks notice for hourly-wage jobs and lower-paid salaried jobs, and four to six weeks for more senior and higher-paying jobs.
2. Announcement. Ask your boss how he or she prefers your resignation to be announced. Don’t burn bridges! Keep your negative comments to yourself, even if you’re brimming over with resentment. It never helps. Should you tell people where you’re going to work? Sure, just don’t use it as a chance to criticize you current employer.
3. Moving on. Keep it positive until you’re through your last day on the job—your employer will remember, and you’ll feel that you’ve handled things professionally.

1. Your Job Search: The New World of Job Searching
2. Your Job Search: What Do You Want to Do?
3. Your Job Search: Preparing Your Résumé and Cover Letter
4. Your Job Search: What Type of Work Arrangement is Right for You?
5. Your Job Search: Researching Jobs and Employers 
6. Your Job Search: Applying for Jobs
7. Your Job Search: The Interview Process
8. Your Job Search: The Job Offer