We gave a worker his notice, but would now like to continue his employment. Can we take back the notice?
Withdrawing notice
Because our order book has dried up a bit, we recently gave notice to three of our short-serving employees but we now find that we want to keep one of them after all. He is still working his notice with us and as far as we know has not found alternative employment, but he has said quite plainly – and somewhat rudely – that he does not want to continue with us. Can we do anything to keep him?
Reply
No. His attitude is immaterial. If you have given formal notice, it stands unless the employee agrees to have it withdrawn. The only way that you may keep him is by making it worth his while in some way. Money may work but so may a friendly discussion rather than aggression.
Previous HR and Payroll tips:
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HR tip: Dishonest academic claims
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HR Tip: Using solicitor in Employment Tribunal
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Booking holidays
Help for redundant employees
Pin-ups in the machine shop
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Changing terms of employment after TUPE
Music in office
Time off for redundant employees
