Is 5 weeks notice too much notice to give?

Question

I have received the job which I have been trying for. I start January 8th. I was thinking of giving my notice this friday, which would be my 5 weeks notice. Is that too much notice or would it be looked at as fine.

I don't know if I should wait and give my notice closer to time or if I should just let them know now. A lady in my office won't be back for a while due to family problems, so I figured giving my notice this much time in advance would appropriate. I am going to prepare my letter of resignation, but I am just not sure if it is too early to let them know.

Answer 1

Normally it's six week notice to give to your boss. But five is fine. Do it now so they can prepare to find a replacement for you (and might have to train) to take over when you leave.

Answer 2

I'm sure your employer will appreciate your effort to keep their office running smoothly. But 5 weeks is a little too much.

What if they find someone else in 2 weeks and let you go early?

I say, give them about 3-4 weeks notice is more than plenty. Unless you have a super-specialized job, that is more than enough to to hire and train a replacement.

Answer 3

I think it depends on your job and the kind of people you work for. Your boss may love you for the advance notice so it gives them time to prepare, or they may not and let you go early like someone else mentioned or make your work hell for the next 5 weeks. You might wait another week just to be safe.

Answer 4

5 weeks seems like a lot of time, but if they are already going to be down one person, and since it is the holiday season, maybe it wouldnt be too bad. but in a normal situation, i have heard doubling the norm of 2 weeks is all you should give. also, take into mind how much work you can miss. although its farily rare, i have heard of people getting fired on the spot when they turn in a 2 weeks notice. so if you live off of the paycheck every week, you might want to hold off.