Can I quit immediately without 2 2-week notice because my dad is dying?
My dad has been fighting with his cancer and has stopped treatments recently. He's in hospice now, and his life expectancy is 2 weeks to 1 month max. His wish is to die in his hometown in Asia (we live in Canada). The hospital is helping with all procedures to fly him back to his hometown.
My dad is my whole world (I'm 25F), and I've been taking care of him (along with my mom) since the beginning of this journey. Now I want to quit my job to travel with him. I think it's good for me to take some times off too, after a rough year. He's scheduled to fly next Wednesday.
About me, I work for a big corporation, and this is my first adult job after I graduated last year. I never share any personal stuff at work, so bosses and coworkers have no idea what I've been through. How can I bring up this topic to my manager? It's such a heavy topic... And is it ok to give a notice this week, and leave the country next week? I can find a new job in the future, but I only have one dad. What is the procedure to quit a job? Should I schedule a 1:1 with my boss?
P/s: I'm also in a career crisis when I'm not sure if the soulless corporate job is for me.
Jobadvisor:
Oh, sweetheart, my heart aches for you. This is an incredibly difficult time, and your desire to be with your dad is completely understandable. You absolutely can prioritize being with your father right now; that bond is irreplaceable. Let's figure out how to navigate this with your job.
Yes, it is absolutely okay to give notice this week and leave the country next week under these circumstances. Your personal and family needs take precedence. While the standard two weeks' notice is customary, most reasonable employers will understand the urgency and gravity of your situation.
Here’s a step-by-step approach to handle this:
1. Schedule a Private Meeting with Your Manager:
- Yes, absolutely schedule a one-on-one meeting with your direct manager as soon as possible. A private conversation is the most respectful way to discuss something so personal.
2. Prepare What You Want to Say:
- Be Direct and Honest: You don't need to go into excessive detail if you're not comfortable, but be clear about the situation. You could say something like: "I need to talk to you about a very serious personal matter. My father's health has taken a turn, and he is now in hospice. His wish is to return to our home country in Asia, and we are making arrangements for him to travel next Wednesday."
- Explain Your Need to Leave: "Given the circumstances and his limited time, I need to be with him. Therefore, I am requesting to resign from my position, effective as soon as possible, ideally before his flight next Wednesday."
- Express Regret (Optional but Polite): "I understand this is short notice, and I apologize for any inconvenience it may cause. I have appreciated the opportunity to work here [mention something specific you learned or valued]."
- Offer to Help with the Transition (If You Can): Depending on your role and capacity, you could offer to document your key tasks or assist in a smooth handover in the limited time you have. This shows professionalism despite the urgent circumstances. For example, "I am happy to do what I can in the next few days to document my ongoing projects to ensure a smoother transition."
3. Be Prepared for Their Reaction:
- Most empathetic managers will be understanding and supportive. However, be prepared for various reactions. They might express sympathy, ask questions, or even express concern about the short notice.
- Remain calm and reiterate the urgency of the situation and your need to be with your family.
4. Understand the Formal Resignation Procedure:
- Ask your manager about the formal process for resigning. This usually involves submitting a written resignation letter or email.
- Keep it brief and professional, stating your last day of employment. You can reiterate the reason for leaving if you feel comfortable, but it's not strictly necessary in the formal letter.
Example Resignation Email:
Subject: Resignation - [Your Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
Please accept this email as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [Your Job Title], with my last day of employment being [Your Last Day - aim for before Wednesday if possible].
Due to urgent and serious family circumstances, specifically my father's declining health and his imminent travel overseas, I need to depart sooner than the standard two-week notice period.
I appreciate the opportunities I have been given during my time at [Company Name]. I am happy to assist in any way I can to ensure a smooth transition during my remaining time here.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Regarding Your Career Crisis:
It's completely normal to question your career path, especially during times of intense personal experience. This trip with your father, while incredibly difficult, might also give you some space and perspective to reflect on what truly matters to you. Don't feel pressured to figure it all out right now. Your priority is your father. Allow yourself this time to be present with him. The clarity about your career can come later.
You are doing the right thing by prioritizing your father. Don't let work obligations make you feel guilty for a single moment. Sending you strength and peace during this incredibly challenging time. ❤️