Oops! I don’t want to resign

While cleaning your junk from the drawer of your table after you have handed over your resignation to your boss after making up your mind. 

But then, suddenly the situation changes, perhaps the new job fell through, perhaps the last-minute offer from the current employer is too good to leave, perhaps personal circumstances need you to stay little longer in the organisation. More importantly, is it all right to rescind something as crucial as a resignation notice?

Retracting or withdrawing your resignation is indeed a catch 22 situation. But if it's equally good for you and for your employer then just grit your teeth and bear the embarrassment.  One has to deal with this awkward situation in a professional and dignified manner. Here’s how you can survive retracing your steps and do well in the organization: 

Talk about it

The very first step is to talk to your HR manager, be prudent, say what needs to be said, most importantly, be professional. Show the act of contrition if something has been caused due to your negligence and reinforce the message about your concern and happiness of staying back and how it will benefit the organisation. Your discussion will definitely depend upon the factors you are including to support your stay in the organisation. 

Timing of retraction 

If the resignation had been given in the heat of the moment, then timing for withdrawal is equally important. The attempt to rescind the resignation in a day or within a week is important otherwise it is gets difficult as the authorities would have taken decision on the same.  

Employers schedule a meeting with the employee

Employers usually schedule a meeting the next day or follow up with a phone call to understand the reason of the resignation and in that case, the doors to retract are somewhat open. Before issuing an acceptance, employers also consider other factors that might be influencing the employee such as a potential mental health issue or family situation causing unusual stress. These factors should raise concerns that perhaps the employee doesn't intend to resign but requires some additional assistance.  

Be prepared for your boss’ decision 

It's very true to say that resignation is a blow to your boss' ego, so be prepared for his decision. Whether your boss decides to accept your retraction or not, make sure that you handle it with dignity. The reality is that if you're an employee with a good track record there's a good chance that your boss is going to want to retain you. After all training someone new will cost time and money. But if your track record is not quite good, then there's a good chance your boss is not going to accept your retraction.

Although it's best to avoid situations such as these, it can happen to anyone, so make sure that you deal with retracting your resignation letter as professionally as possible.