From Thatcher to Johnson: what former PMs said when forced to resign
What is a forced resignation?
A forced resignation occurs when you are asked to leave by a company. You might be given the option to resign or be fired by the company. In other situations, the employer might demand that you leave without a choice.
There are numerous reasons a company might request that you undergo a forced resignation process. When employment terms end, not every company offers a forced resignation, but it can be a good option for you. Here are some scenarios in which you might experience a forced resignation:
Tips for when you are forced to resign
If you are required to resign from a position, you can use the following advice:
Ask questions to professional sources
Although a forced resignation can be difficult, a human resources specialist can frequently help you navigate the procedure. They can assist you as you leave your position by outlining the next steps and explaining them to you. If the business owes you any benefits, such as paid time off or sick time, a human resource specialist can also help. Additionally, if applicable, they ought to be able to assist you with transitioning any retirement accounts or stock accounts.
If you have any additional inquiries regarding your compelled resignation, you can also seek assistance from sources outside the organization. Other resources for questions include labor lawyers and the US Department of Labor.
Agree about the terms of your departure
You can inquire with your management team when and how your last day will be organized. If you decide to write a letter of forced resignation, the information in this will be useful. You can enquire about returning tools and other business property, such as ID badges. It’s helpful to specify in writing to whom and when to return these items. Make sure there are no personal files or folders on any equipment you must return to the company, such as a laptop, and make sure you have saved any items you might need from it.
You should meet with your manager to discuss upcoming projects and their due dates as part of the logistics process. If you are unable to complete them, come up with a strategy or timetable for their completion following your departure with your leadership team.
Make sure the company understands the reasoning behind your departure. Future interviews may include this question, so if prospective employers check in with your previous employer, think about making sure you and your company both have the same explanation for your departure.
Find out about severance packages
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your forced resignation, a company may provide you with a severance package at that time. Severance pay, health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as other ongoing benefits for a while after your departure, could all be included in the severance package. If you want more details or to find out if this applies to your particular situation, ask your manager or a human resources specialist.
Learn about the unemployment process
You might qualify for unemployment with a forced resignation. If your situation is eligible, an HR representative might be able to let you know. You can work with your state unemployment office to learn about the procedure if their office is unable to help you. They can assist you in applying for benefits and let you know if your situation qualifies.
Get references and referrals for jobs
It can be difficult to predict how your company will respond if a prospective employer contacts them after a forced resignation. Most of the time, employers can only confirm your start and end dates of employment, not why you left. You can ask coworkers if they would be willing to provide a reference if you need one rather than asking your manager or HR representative. Additionally, coworkers may provide you with a recommendation or lead on other jobs they know about.
Write a forced resignation letter
In a letter of forced resignation, you outline your reasons for leaving the business as well as the reasons the employer made you leave. You can express your viewpoint to the company in a forced resignation letter while dealing with a trying circumstance. It’s crucial to keep the letter formal, understandable, and succinct.
As with any other work you owe the company, like reports or papers, you can pay for logistics. Include any other debts your employer owes you, like paid time off or sick leave. Give a direct explanation of how the company forced you to resign.
Update your resume and cover letter
While your current employment is still fresh in your mind, update your resume and cover letter. The first professional document a recruiter or hiring manager will see when reviewing applications is your resume, so making sure it is current with new projects and responsibilities can help you stand out as a candidate for your next position.
Consider the positive
In some circumstances, a forced resignation may occur as a result of a company no longer needing or being able to afford the position. It’s crucial to not place the blame for the forced resignation on yourself, regardless of the circumstances. If you use a forced resignation as an opportunity to transfer to another position or company that might be a better fit for you, you can advance your career.
FAQ
Is forced resignation considered termination?
Because you were forced to resign against your will, constructive discharge is a form of termination in law. You should be able to receive unemployment benefits if you are forced to resign. Additionally, you have the option of complaining to the EEOC.
Can a company force you to resign?
The business gains from reducing the likelihood that a fired employee will file a wrongful termination lawsuit. However, companies cannot usually force an employee to resign. A company that wants to avoid firing a worker can, at most, make staying in the position unpleasant in the hopes that the worker will eventually resign.
What happens if you refuse to resign?
Employment-at-Will Situations Nevertheless, your employer has the right to fire you if you steadfastly refuse to resign. The only exception is if your employment is governed by a formal contract or a labor union agreement that provides employees with additional due process before termination.
Is it better to be fired or forced to resign?
Resigning would theoretically be better for your reputation because it would appear that you made the decision and not your employer. But if you voluntarily leave, you might not be eligible for the same kind of unemployment benefits that you might be able to get if you were fired.
