About 18 years ago I took a position in Canada with a large well known firm, in a technical role.
I committed to one year, and as that time rolled around I discussed with my wife looking around my industry. Within 2 days I had a solid offer, for significantly better wages and perks. With a start date established, I crafted my resignation letter, signed it and had it in my blazed pocket on that fateful Friday morning.
Upon arrival I was told to head into the vp’s office, perfect I wanted to see him anyway and discuss the transition of responsibilities (resign).
I walked in, coffee in hand, and saw the HR director was there as well. I was being terminated, not for cause. A 3 or 4 page document was presented to me outlining the proposed severance package. $10k, benefit continuation, car expenses etc. I told them I was on board, didn’t want to make it difficult, let’s be professional and the like; however 10k would probably cover my legals when I filled against them. We agreed 25k was more “amicable.” The document was amended, signed, copied and initialled. 25k, car and expenses for 3 months, health and dental for 6 months. All very friendly, we joked, refilled our coffee cups, and chatted for a bit.
I tucked the agreement into my blazer pocket and said “to think I was going to resign today.” The laughed. I pulled the envelope out of my pocket, handed it to the HR director, shook his hand, and left with their stunned silence echoing in my ears. Timing is everything.