My resignation didn't go smoothly. HR told me Adrian hadn't approved it.
I sent my resignation letter straight to the group's general inbox, copying HR, administration, compliance, and every department head. The subject line was simple.
Request to Terminate My Employment in Accordance with the Law
Within 30 minutes, Adrian was calling so often my phone barely stopped ringing. I didn't answer. Then he switched to his private number. I picked up.
"Can I help you, Mr. Whitmore?"
"Recall the email."
"Why?"
"You know what that email will do."
"I do."
"You're getting back at me."
"I'm resigning."
"Come back. Let's talk."
"About what?"
"Name your terms."
I stood under the bus shelter, watching the traffic pass.
"My terms are simple. First, approve my resignation. Second, keep me of
