Job Advice

Three Benefits of At-Will Employment

Many people dread at-will employment because of what its name implies of the employer. However, there are some benefits to working in an at-will situation. These are three of them.

You Can Fire Your Employer

Most people's gripe about at-will employment is that their employer can fire them for any reason at any time. Did you know that right goes two ways? Yes, your employer can fire you at any time for any reason that is allowable by federal law. However, you can "fire them," as well. You can stay or go, according to your own will. If you don't want to work there anymore, you don't have to return. No contract binds you there.

You May not Have to Leave Notice

Though it's proper etiquette to leave two weeks notice when you leave a place of employment, you aren't legally bound to do so. You can clock out on Monday and never come back if you so desire. Most people don't do that because it gives the employer a cause to refuse a future rehire or job recommendation. You do have the right, however.

You Can Get Promoted Based on Your Merit

An at-will employment situation is not one that involves a union. Therefore, you won't have to worry about losing a good promotion opportunity because you don't have enough seniority. You can try to get your superiors to promote you based on your work ethic and merit. There's no promise that you'll get the job, but at least you have a better chance.

Those are some of the benefits that you can get from at-will employment. Think of it as an opportunity for you to learn and grow and then move on to something more beneficial if you so desire. Alternatively, you could build a sense of trust between yourself and the employer and stay on the job years.