On_my_own_info

Quake

There is little or no warning for an earthquake. When one begins, the safest thing to either get in a doorway or under a sturdy table. The theory on this is that the door frame or the structure of the table will help protect you from debris falling on you if the quake is strong.

If you choose to run outside, quickly move away from the building and windows to avoid falling glass and debris. Avoid trees and power poles that can topple and pull down power lines as well.

When you live in earthquake prone areas you need to know if:

Your home or building where you live been inspected for structural weakness?

Has your home has been bolted to the foundation?

Is the foundation on rollers?

Are appliances and heavy furniture bolted down?

Do you or family members know how to shut off gas or water lines and electricity if necessary?

Do you have emergency supplies on hand that will last 72 hours?

Do you have an out of state contact?

Is there an emergency plan where you work?

What is the emergency plan for your neighborhood and community?

If in an earthquake prone area your community probably issues manuals on safety precautions that can be taken to insure minimal injury and damages to property as well as recommendations for emergency survival kits.

There are many things you can do such as putting baby locks on all cabinet doors to help keep things from falling out during a quake. Bookcases and china cabinets and other tall pieces of furniture can be secured to wall studs. Water heaters should also be strapped to wall studs for added security. The manuals available in your community will give you more detailed information on what you can do.

So, you have found a new job that offers you more opportunities for growth and advancement. Maybe you feel your present job has too much stress involved. Perhaps there is no opportunity to move forward with the present job. You are being harassed by a coworker or a manager … what ever the reason you want to quit. (see Harassment)

OK, you’ve made the decision. but DO NOT just walk out. Hopefully you do have a job to go to. That is always best. It is often said that it is easier to get a job when you have a job.

Always give a professionally written two week letter of resignation. Some say a two week notice is too long, but it will always look better in your personnel file if you have given a two week notice. By doing this you give your current employer time to replace you. If they don't try to find someone else; that is not your problem because you have given a proper notice. Always make a copy of the letter for your personal records.

You should verbally tell your present manager that you will be leaving your position, but also have the letter of resignation with you and give it to your manager at the same time. It is more courteous to ask for a few minutes of their time to tell them in person and then hand them your resignation than it is to drop it in their in box with no prior warning.

Don’t be surprised that when you give your written notice that you are told that you can leave right then and there. Especially if you are leaving to join a competitor. It happens. Be prepared for that. Don’t let that shake you up. If you have a job to go to you can call your new employer and tell them that when you gave notice you were told to leave and ask if you could start earlier than originally planned. They may tell you to come in sooner. That happens too.

Below is an example of a letter of resignation and you can also search the web or a book on etiquette for other examples.

Letter of Resignation Example:

Month, Day, Year (Date)

Your Name
Your Street Address
City ,State and Zip

Manager’s Name and Title

Company Name

Street Address
City, State and Zip

Dear (Manager’s Name),

This letter is to serve as my official notice of resignation from (Company Name)

I have been offered another employment opportunity and have decided to accept a position with another company (Company name) and will be leaving (date in two weeks). (You don’t have to put the company name and you can verbally tell the manager if you prefer. You don't really have to them but there's no reason not to.)

I will be happy to help in training my replacement to make the transition smoother if that will help you. After I leave, please call me if you should have any questions regarding past projects that I have worked on or if I can be of assistance in any way.

I have enjoyed working here and am grateful for the opportunities the position has given me. (Do not write about any grievance or dissatisfaction with the job you are leaving.)

I wish you and the company continued success.

Sincerely,

(Sign your name here)

Your Name (Typed)

It is always best to leave a current job without any ill feelings toward you. Following the above suggestions and being cooperative as well as tying up any loose ends or following through on your assignments while there will benefit you in the long run. You won't be leaving with negative feelings toward you. Remember to not to be negative toward your manager, co-workers or the company even when you may be asked in an exit interview.