Quit your job, then serve 6 months' notice? What to check before signing a contract

Moving on to a new job can be an exciting prospect, but it's crucial to carefully review the terms of your current employment contract before signing. Employment experts suggest that notice periods vary based on the position and responsibilities involved. Generally, entry-level and junior employees may expect a one-month notice, while mid-level professionals could face two to three months.

Senior leaders and executives often encounter longer notice periods, typically three to six months, which allow organizations ample time to find a replacement and ensure a smooth transition.

However, lengthy notice periods may pose challenges when seeking new employment, as prospective employers might not be willing to wait months for the employee to start work. It's essential to evaluate the necessity and proportionality of such clauses, as they can significantly impact your career mobility and job search prospects.

In addition to notice periods, other employment contract clauses may warrant attention. These include terms regarding working hours and overtime, probation and termination conditions, bonuses and benefits, and garden leave, where employees remain on the payroll but cease working during part or all of their notice period. It's also wise to scrutinize restrictive clauses, such as non-compete and non-solicitation provisions, which may limit your future career opportunities and professional relationships with former colleagues and clients.

Legal experts advise caution when faced with clauses that grant employers excessive power to reduce salaries or alter roles, or that hold employees personally liable for business losses, regardless of fault or circumstances. Such provisions should be approached with care and thoroughly understood before signing an employment contract.