2 Weeks Notice

[Keebler]

Well folks, it's been almost two years since I got out of the USAF and started trying to find my way in civillian life. I've spent the last two years saving my money, taking care of all the loose ends, finding an affordable place to stay, paying off my auto, researching the industry, studying, training. It's been great making the big bucks; and while sitting at a desk as an officer in the USAF was bearable, I decided long ago that this cubicle just ain't for me. I thought of myself 40 years down the road. Do I really want to look back and ask why I didn't try to follow my heart, and are my grandkids really going to want to hear about that time I negotiated 250K worth of savings into a contract for another USMC helicopter.

So yeah, my mind has been made up for some time and the ducks are all in a row. All I have left to do is move my belongings and start a solid 30 day push to get my CFI rating and a job instructing. Then starts the long road, sacrifice, and the real learning that is the life of a professional aviator.

My question...
Has anyone hear ever had to provide a "2 weeks notice"? I've never quit anything in my life until now; and though I know I'm prepared, and I know it's the right thing for me to do... I still feel as if I'm bailing on the team. I'm attaching my letter for any comments and any advice anyone who has been through this can provide. I will remain a professional throughout my exit as this is more about character than anything else. It's just that some people will never understand why another would want to shake the golden cuffs of certainty for that less trodden path that is the unknown.

Boss:

Please accept this letter as formal notification that I will be leaving my position with Brand X Whirlybirds on 14 June 2007.

I remain grateful for the opportunities, learning experiences and friends I have made during my time of employment with Brand X Whirlybirds; but after much introspection, I have decided it is time to pursue other career ambitions.

If there is anything I can do to facilitate the transfer of my workload, just let me know.

Sincerely,

Keebler

[Mahesh]

I've given many two week notices and yours sounds very good! Good luck with your CFI rating!

[Keebler]

Thanks Mahesh. I've got about 6 more hours and then I'm going to hand it in. Someone said it was best to give it on a Friday afternoon and it seems logical to me as I don't really feel the need to talk to everyone and explain my motives. This is a purely personal decision.

[staplegun]

Good letter, keep it even-toned and professional, don't burn any bridges...

Good luck!

Kevin

[cignaguy]

In a more professional position, it is better to give a month's notice in my opinion. I guess it all depends on how quickly your employer can replace you. I know in my industry, I will give at least a month's notice.

I can't wait until I can do the same!

[Keebler]

I did it. I just freed myself from the golden handcuffs. Now to put on the rusty tin cuffs of a CFI.

Suprisingly all of my leadership was extremely supportive. I was received of the storries of how they wished they had taken a chance and how impossible it can be later in life after kids and mortgage payments.

Now for an evening with me and my grill, oh and my girl too.

[Texasspilot]

Keeb, you still gonna be around DFW?


congrats btw

[TexasFlyer]

Your letter of resignation is perfect. And yes, it is best to simply hand over the letter since you have no need to say anything or explain yourself. Simply just focus on the transfer of job duties. The company was able to get along before you, and will get along after you. As long as you gave them an honest effort during your stay, it's all good.

In my level position more notice was appropriate since me leaving could actually shut down a whole division of a company (I created the division!), so it's important for me to go the extra mile in helping ensure the future of the division. I just recenlty put in 6 weeks working notice and then offered my services up as a consultant for projects that may still need completed after my departure. While it was not received well (I knew it would not be), the President understood the timing of the decision and my desire to start my flying career since this 34 year old is not getting any younger.

Good luck to you!

Joseph Alai
Aviation Division Director
Deacon Recruiting, San Antonio, TX
Office: (210) 494-1000, ext. 227
National: 1-877-507-1000
jalai@deaconrecruiting.com


Visit us at http://www.deaconrecruiting.com/jobs-Aviation.asp and be sure to stop by our booth, #7844, at the 2007 NBAA 60th Annual Convention in Atlanta this September!


Helping better the lives of Aviation Professionals through networking, that's Deacon Recruiting!

[Keebler]

Thanks Joseph. I'm only several years behind you so I know the feeling. And Texasspilot... I'm still here in Fort Worth and will be for another year at a minimum. Any of you guys can give me a shout if you are in town and the first beer is on me.

[Swen]

Good to hear you are getting on with the career. Keep it fun.