Switching jobs? Don’t treat the offer letter as a job

Switching jobs shouldn't be treated like receiving a job offer. The letter of intent is not a guarantee of employment. To protect yourself, understand the key dates that matter. The moment you resign, the countdown begins for your current salary to stop. The day you start working marks when your new salary begins. Between those two pivotal moments lies your highest risk period.

For instance, with a salary of Rs 30 lakh, even a two-month delay in starting your new role would mean losing Rs 5 lakh, even though your bills like EMIs and school fees continue to arrive on time. Remember, until you actually begin working, the new salary remains just on paper.

Carefully examine your offer letter before signing. Look for clauses that could stall or revoke the offer, such as indefinite joining dates, roles dependent on specific client contracts, or flexible probation periods. Other warning signs include low fixed pay, verbal assurances of remote work or bonuses. Send an email to HR to clarify three crucial points: is the position approved? Is the joining date confirmed? When will I receive the signed appointment letter?

While you can't force the employer to uphold a weakly written contract, legal recourse is possible if the offer is delayed or rescinded. You may be entitled to a small settlement covering a few months of pay, but proving your documented costs like lease and relocation will be challenging. Litigation is usually the last resort; try negotiation instead to minimize losses.

Maintain positive relationships with your current employer. Resign only after receiving the official appointment letter and focus on preserving connections. Avoid counteroffers, complete a proper handover, and stay reachable for another four weeks. This tactful exit may allow you to retract your resignation if the new job falls through.