CVS Health is a true retail giant, employing over 300,000 people across its 9,900+ pharmacy locations and corporate offices as of 2020. With a workforce of that size, turnover is inevitable – in fact, CVS‘s retail employee turnover rate hovers around 44% according to recent industry data.
If you‘re one of the thousands of CVS employees considering a job change, you likely have questions about how to resign properly and what it means for your future career prospects. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know to quit your job at CVS with professionalism and grace.
Familiarize Yourself with CVS‘s Rehire Policy
Before you turn in your resignation, it‘s crucial to understand CVS‘s rehire policy and how your actions during the resignation process can impact your eligibility for future employment with the company.
According to the CVS employee handbook, former employees are eligible for rehire if they left the company voluntarily with proper notice and in good standing. This means that you:
- Provided at least two weeks‘ notice before your last day
- Maintained satisfactory performance and attendance throughout your tenure
- Did not engage in any gross misconduct or policy violations
- Returned all company property and settled any outstanding financial obligations
Conversely, employees who abandon their job without notice, are terminated for cause, or fail to meet the other criteria above are generally not eligible for rehire. CVS does make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, but it‘s always best to err on the side of caution and resign the right way.
The Importance of Giving Notice
Giving adequate notice is one of the most critical aspects of resigning from any job, and CVS is no exception. The standard notice period for most positions is two weeks, but some roles may require more time to ensure a smooth transition.
| Position | Recommended Notice Period |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (cashier, stock associate) | 2 weeks |
| Shift supervisor | 3 weeks |
| Pharmacy technician | 3-4 weeks |
| Assistant manager | 4 weeks |
| Store manager | 4+ weeks |
While it may be tempting to quit on the spot if you‘re feeling frustrated or have another opportunity lined up, resist the urge. Abruptly leaving your job without notice can burn bridges and harm your professional reputation, making it harder to secure future employment or get a positive reference from your supervisor.
If extenuating circumstances prevent you from working your full notice period, have an honest conversation with your manager as soon as possible. They may be willing to find a compromise, such as allowing you to train your replacement remotely or work a reduced schedule in your final weeks.
Crafting Your Resignation Letter
Once you‘ve decided to leave CVS, it‘s time to put your resignation in writing. While it may be uncomfortable, submitting a formal resignation letter is an essential step in the process. Your letter should be concise, professional, and include the following elements:
- A clear statement of your intent to resign
- Your proposed last day of work (remember, two weeks is standard)
- A brief, positive reason for your departure (e.g., pursuing a new opportunity, going back to school, relocating)
- A thank-you to your manager and colleagues for the experience and support
- Your contact information and offer to assist with the transition
Here‘s a sample resignation letter template:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Manager‘s Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager‘s Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from my position as [job title] with CVS. My last day will be [date], two weeks from today.
I have accepted a new role with [new company] that will allow me to [briefly explain reason for leaving]. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have had during my time with CVS, and I appreciate your support throughout my tenure.
Please let me know how I can assist with ensuring a smooth transition over the next two weeks. I am happy to help train my replacement or complete any necessary paperwork to wrap up my duties.
Thank you again for the opportunity to work with such a talented team. I wish you and everyone at CVS all the best.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]Remember, your resignation letter will likely end up in your permanent employee file, so keep it positive and professional. Avoid airing grievances or making negative comments about the company or your colleagues, as this could jeopardize your rehire eligibility and future references.
Managing Your Final Weeks
After submitting your resignation letter, focus on ending your tenure at CVS on a high note. Continue to put forth your best effort, tie up loose ends, and maintain positive relationships with your co-workers and supervisors.
Some tips for making the most of your final weeks:
- Notify key stakeholders (regular customers, vendors, cross-functional partners) of your upcoming departure and introduce them to your replacement if possible.
- Organize your files, documentation, and ongoing projects to ensure a seamless handoff.
- Offer to create training materials or checklists to help your successor get up to speed quickly.
- Take time to say personalized goodbyes and express your appreciation to colleagues who have supported you.
- Participate in an exit interview if offered and provide constructive, professional feedback on your experience.
By making a concerted effort to leave things better than you found them, you‘ll demonstrate your professionalism and work ethic – qualities that will serve you well in your future endeavors.
Considering a Transfer vs. Resigning
If you‘re leaving your CVS job due to dissatisfaction with your specific role or location but would consider staying with the company under different circumstances, it may be worth exploring an internal transfer before submitting your resignation.
CVS offers a variety of career paths and locations, and your experience with the company could make you a strong candidate for other opportunities within the organization. Reach out to your manager or HR representative to discuss your options and express your interest in staying with CVS in a different capacity.
However, if you do decide to pursue an external opportunity, be transparent with your manager about your plans. Attempting to secure a transfer while actively interviewing elsewhere can damage trust and relationships.
Depending on your specific role and location, there may be additional factors to consider when resigning from CVS:
- Union membership: If you are a member of a union like the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), review your collective bargaining agreement for any specific resignation requirements or benefits you may be entitled to.
- Pharmacy licensure: If you are a licensed pharmacy technician or pharmacist, be sure to notify your state board of pharmacy of your job change and update your contact information to ensure you receive important communications about your license.
- Benefits and PTO: Review your benefits package and PTO balance to understand what coverage you‘ll have after your last day and whether you‘ll receive a payout for any unused vacation time. If you have questions, reach out to your HR representative for guidance.
- Non-compete agreements: Some CVS employees, particularly those in leadership or sensitive roles, may be subject to non-compete clauses that restrict their ability to work for competing companies for a set period after leaving CVS. Review any agreements you signed upon hire and consult with an employment attorney if you have concerns.
By taking these unique considerations into account and planning accordingly, you can ensure a smoother transition and minimize the risk of any legal or professional complications down the line.
Life After CVS: Embracing New Opportunities
As you prepare to leave CVS, remember that every ending is a new beginning. While change can be daunting, it also presents an opportunity for growth, learning, and exploration.
Take some time to reflect on your experience at CVS and identify the skills, knowledge, and accomplishments you want to carry forward into your next role. Update your resume and online profiles to showcase your strengths and value to potential employers.
Stay in touch with the positive connections you made at CVS, as they can serve as valuable references and networking contacts throughout your career journey. And if you ever decide you want to return to CVS, having maintained those relationships and left on good terms will work in your favor.
As you embark on your post-CVS chapter, embrace the possibilities ahead of you. Whether you‘re moving on to a new company, starting your own business, or taking time off to recharge, trust in your abilities and the experiences that have brought you to this point.
Remember, your career is a marathon, not a sprint. Every step, even the challenging ones, is an opportunity to learn, grow, and move closer to your ultimate goals. So take a deep breath, trust the journey, and know that the best is yet to come.
Key Takeaways for Resigning from CVS
- Give at least two weeks‘ notice to maintain rehire eligibility and professional standing
- Submit a formal, positive resignation letter thanking your manager and colleagues
- Finish strong by tying up loose ends and maintaining positive relationships in your final weeks
- Consider internal transfer opportunities before resigning if you want to stay with CVS
- Review benefits, contracts, and licensing considerations unique to your role
- Embrace your next chapter and carry your CVS experience forward with pride
By following these guidelines and approaching your resignation with care and professionalism, you can leave CVS on a positive note and set yourself up for success in your future endeavors. Good luck on the next step of your journey!
