[Anonymous]

I need advice on how to handle a delicate job change situation. I recently applied for a top financial position not thinking I would even be considered for the job. As fate may have it, I was not only interviewed I was offered the job within a week. My dilemma comes in since we have an audit starting next week at my current job and I am the lead accountant. How do I break the news that I have a new offer and give my notice without ruffling feathers and stay professional. I don’t want it to seem as if am running away from the audit results or responsibility, it’s always questionable when the lead accountant resigns during an audit. I never expected this quick turn of events and I don’t want to seem ungrateful to my current employer. How much notice would make most sense, how should I handle this entire situation and what would be right words to say, am seriously losing my mind over this.

Thanks.

Amazonking.

[Missy]

Does the audit typically last less than two weeks? I'd give notice but assure your current employer you'll give 100% to the audit and tell your new employer that you need to finish out this audit. They'll both appreciate your dedication.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[Jdn9201]

First of all, congrats on the job offer! It's also admirable of you to want to part ways in a professional manner. I agree with the above poster – find out how long the audit is going to take. If it's 2-3 weeks, try to stay at your current job until it is over. Regarding your conversation and your notice – keep it professional, but short and sweet. You have nothing to apologize for. It sounds like the offer you received is beneficial for your career and something that you want. If I were you, I'd tell your current boss how much you appreciated the opportunities to learn and grow there, but your current offer aligns with your career goals and was something that you couldn't pass up. They probably won't be happy for you, but they should at least understand. Try not to worry too much about it – people do this all the time.

BEC - 88 8/29/15
REG - 82 11/14/15
AUD - 83 1/8/16
FAR - 80 2/29/16

[Anonymous]

Thank you both, the audit lasts 5 days so worst case scenario it should be over by Friday. I was thinking of negotiating 4 weeks notice to be able to answer any follow up audit questions. Yes it really is a great opportunity and am looking forward to starting the new job once I deliver the bad news to my current employer. It's reassuring to hear that it happens all the time, I guess when going through something you always feel like you are the only one who has ever experienced that.

I will keep you posted on how it goes.

[Son]

amazonking, when does your new company want you to start? I know your loyalty is probably still with your old employer, but keep in mind that you're about to tell them goodbye, so it's time to start thinking as an employee of the company you're about to join – their needs in this case should matter a lot more to you. Staying professional and respectful of your current company is important, but they are about to cut you your last paycheck.

Also, it obviously depends on the situation and the relationship you have, but I don't think you should feel obligated to answer any questions beyond your last two weeks with your current company. If they want your help after you're out of the door, they should be prepared to compensate you for that – and don't forget that you'll be assuming some level of responsibility when helping them after your resignation. Assuming you're a CPA I would suggest you sign a consulting agreement with very clearly defined responsibilities before providing them with any answers. In any case I would refrain from putting anything into writing once you're out (that includes emails).

AUD - passed
REG - passed
BEC - passed
FAR - passed

[Missy]

I really don't think you should need to stick around much longer than a 2 week notice if the audit will be wrapped up by Friday unless your boss is really out of the loop he or she should be able to figure out the answers to any follow up questions. If you've been there more than a year or two I'm sure you can practically anticipate any follow up questions by now and could likely leave your boss a list of things you expect to have to substantiate, with a brief explanation. Congratulations!

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[Anonymous]

Son and Mia, thank you. I have been at my current job for 4 years and my boss is not an accountant and has no accounting expertise. My new job asked when I would like to start so it's basically upto me to tell them when would work. Son, your words make sense, I should start thinking of myself as a former employee that would make it easier to break the news. Yes I am a CPA and writing a consulting agreement sounds like a brilliant idea, I will not bring it up unless they suggest it.

[Son]

Glad we could give you something to think through. And yep, I agree – no need to bring up the whole consulting thing until they reach out to you with questions. All the best in your new job!

AUD - passed
REG - passed
BEC - passed
FAR - passed

[monikernc]

i would add that before you enter into a consulting agreement you first check your new company's policy on secondary employment to be sure it is allowed.

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[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone!

[Author]

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