You've been searching for more flexible work, but your employment contract prevents you from doing so. Is it possible for you to switch from a career that offers less freedom, like a full-time office job where you've already signed a contract, to one that offers more freedom, like remote work or a part-time job? Consider the suggestions below to help you start thinking about how you might handle this sticky situation.
Never assume you are helpless
According to Kimberley Tyler-Smith, an executive at the career tech platform Resume Worded, if you have an employment contract and want to leave to take a remote job, it's critical to understand the consequences of your current contract. Make sure there are no restrictions on your ability to leave or work for another business in your employment contract, Tyler-Smith advised. If so, you might need to locate a different job to satisfy your desire for a remote one.
Although you might initially believe that there is no way to get out of your employment contract, it's crucial to read it attentively to know all of your options.
Even though you might initially believe that your employment contract cannot be broken, it is crucial to thoroughly read it to determine all of your options. While having an employment contract may make it seem as though you're stuck in a job you may no longer want, it's not always the case, Caroline Duggan is the Chief Brand Officer at the Lumineux dental care business. The majority of contracts, according to Duggan, "provide a way for both employers and employees to separate." "Carefully review the contract to determine whether it contains a provision stating that the contract may be terminated with [X] notice."
If you have a new job chance but have an employment contract with your current employer, Adrienne Couch, a human resources analyst at LLC Services, agrees that you may still be able to leave your position. Look over your work contract to see if there are any provisions regarding leaving your position, advised Couch. The majority of contracts detail the conditions for quitting, such as providing a warning, what you lose if you leave before the end of the contract, or what happens if you leave abruptly without an explanation. Couch advises starting over with your employer to find a solution if your contract does not specify any provisions for early termination.
Start a Conversation
The next step in changing jobs when you're a contracted employee is to start a conversation with your boss about it after digging into the specifics of your contract.
Nance L. Schick, an employment attorney-mediator based in New York, advises that if you have an employment contract but are seeking a new job, the best course of action is to discuss your desired job with your employer. In these conversations, you should explain why the new position is a better fit for you and how you and your employer can smoothly transition your responsibilities. Schick cautions that you should be aware that your current contract may need to be modified, including the termination date. Remember, a job is a partnership between an employer and an employee who are working together towards shared goals, according to Schick US..
Open communication about requirements and wants is necessary for the workplace because they will change over time, just like in any other partnership. Tyler-Smith noted that if there are no provisions in your contract that would prohibit you from working elsewhere, it's likely that your employer will let you go if they believe they can find a replacement for you without much of a fight. If this isn't the case, she added, "they might try to keep you on board by offering more flexible working hours or higher pay."
Explore Early Termination of the Contract
As per Nolan, it's quite common for employment contracts to incorporate a clause that allows employees to terminate the agreement without facing any penalties if they receive an offer for a job with superior compensation or benefits.
In addition, Duggan suggests examining the contract's list of potential breach causes, as you may have a valid reason to terminate the agreement.
She also counsels you not to be hesitant to ask an attorney to review your contract and explain your options. You should think about speaking with your boss to see if it's possible to terminate the contract because "the majority of employers do not want an employee who is disengaged," she advised.
At Your Current Job, Request What You Want
If you and your employer cannot reach an agreement and they refuse to let you go, Tyler-Smith suggests asking them if they would be open to exploring alternative alternatives with you. "One option is to ask if they will allow you to work remotely"
Look for a New Job
If you are unable to negotiate what you require in your current position but can terminate your contract, GulfCareers can assist you in finding a new chance. We find the right talent for every company, and ensuring that each candidate finds a dream job they enjoy. GulfCareers is a free online job posting site in UAE and you can search for suitable jobs as per your skills and qualifications.