Stuck in a Notice Period Dilemma: How to Handle a Sudden Change in Release Terms?

Friends, a help is solicited. My current company's official notice period is 60 days, though early release is possible. I resigned, and my manager accepted the resignation and also wrote on the resignation form that I will be released early in 30 days. So, I confirmed with the other company about my joining. Now, suddenly, the company owner has crossed it out and wrote 60 days on it, saying I won’t get a release letter, documents, and financial dues if I leave before 60 days. They are not even ready for a buyout. What should I do now?

Appointment Letter Clause

If you have an appointment letter, there must be a clause regarding the notice period and salary in lieu of the notice period. Show it to them. If it is mentioned in your Appointment Order, then they cannot force you into such a situation.

Regards,
Arun J.

There is no such thing mentioned. The problem is, I was confirmed both in writing and verbally that I should get early release, and now I am denied.

Try taking it up with the new company and ask for an extension of time to join. Also, inquire whether they are okay without a relieving letter upon joining them after the expiry of one's notice period, which has been agreed upon in writing. You may show a copy of this as proof of your resignation and their endorsement. (I'm afraid you didn't take a copy of this endorsement before they scratched it out, huh?).

Simultaneously, keep requesting them to relieve you within the originally agreed one month. Is there any unfinished work or project? If there is, try to complete them within one month; probably they won't mind thereafter. Try, try all the time. All the best.

It does not mean that just because you have asked for early relieving, your employer is asking you to serve the full notice period. If your appointment order states that there should be a notice of 60 days on either side and does not mention anything about compensation in lieu of notice pay, you have to serve the entire notice period. You may approach and request the higher-ups for early relieving.

Since your appointment letter does not mention early release and your employer is the final authority who can compel you to provide a notice period of 60 days, there isn't much that can be done except to accept it. As Mr. Kumar has suggested, try to convince your new employer to either extend your joining date or accept you without your relieving.

Considerations Before Leaving Your Current Job

- Are you joining a competitor?
- Have you informed your present company where you are joining?
- Is there any unfinished, critical project dependent upon your staying on?
- Do you have proof, in writing, of your direct superior accepting your resignation?

The above questions would determine your course of action. If all the answers are in your favor, first request your direct superior's intervention, as he initially recommended your relieving. He could be in the same boat as you tomorrow, so he should be understanding. If that fails, next try to convince the joining organization. For a genuine case, they should be flexible if they really want you.

I have a feeling you are joining a competitor and the present employer knows about it... right or wrong?