The right time to hand in your notice

The right time to hand in your notice depends on the stage of your job offer. Here’s the safest and most widely recommended approach:

1. Wait until you have a written offer

Never resign based on a verbal offer or “we’re finalizing things.”
You need the official offer letter with:

• Salary

• Title

• Start date

• Location/remote details

• Any bonuses or equity

• Any contingencies

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2. Read the offer carefully

Make sure there are no surprises—pay, benefits, or conditions you didn’t expect.

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3. Finish all negotiation first

Do not hand in your notice before:

• Salary is finalized

• Bonuses are agreed

• Start date is confirmed

• All negotiations are done

Once you resign, your leverage disappears.

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4. Confirm contingencies are cleared

Some offers depend on:

• Background checks

• Drug tests

• Reference checks

• Board approval

Wait until these are completed if possible or at least ask the employer whether your offer is contingent on anything.

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5. Only then, submit your notice

Once the offer is fully signed, accepted, and cleared of major contingencies, you can safely resign.

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6. Give the correct notice period

Most companies require:

• Two weeks (common in the U.S.)

• 4–12 weeks in many European or senior roles

• Or whatever is in your contract

Always check your employment agreement.

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7. Time it with your new start date

Work backward from the new start date to choose your resignation day.