Can You Be Fired for Requesting a Transfer?
Can You Be Fired for Requesting a Transfer? This is a complicated question to answer as it often relies on the employment standards in your state, the disposition of those in higher positions than you, and your performance in a current position.
Reasons You Won’t Get Fired
There are several reasons it’s unlikely for you to get fired.
First and foremost, some states have employment laws that force employers (and their employees) to have set reasons in place for firing someone. Asking a work-related question is rarely a reason to fire someone in a contracted work municipality.
Then, you have to consider how expensive employees are. Even in an Employment at Will state, where you can quit at any time and employers can fire you at any time, employers are incentivized to not fire their employees willy-nilly. The onboarding process is expensive, they invest money into each employee frequently, and hiring someone new is an expensive headache.
Usually, they get a better bargain by doing what needs to be done, within reason, to keep a good employee around; even if it’s sending them to a new location or department whenever possible.
Even if they can’t transfer you, as long as you’re a worthwhile employee, they’ll want to avoid losing you and investing in someone new.
Reasons You Could Get Fired
Of course, you’re not always entirely safe and there are reasons an employer might want to fire you. In fact, in the majority of states, they can do so without any reason or notice as long as they’re not discriminating against you.
Why would they do that over a question, though?
If you’re an unruly employee who causes problems and burns bridges, they might see it as an easy way out. You’re not performing as you should, and now that you’re saying your current position doesn’t work, they can deny you a transfer and let you go. This is expensive for them, but it can happen.
You also have to consider who you’re asking for a transfer. If the boss you’re approaching is a budget version of Gordan Ramsey, they might tell you to go home if you’re not willing to revolve your existence around their needs.
Of course, there are less-negative reasons they might “fire” you. It might be the only choice if you cannot work in your current position. After all, they have a team to manage, and if the two of you can’t find a solution, they can’t just keep you on the payroll.
It’s unfortunate, but that’s how life works sometimes, and it’s no one’s fault.
They might even be willing to rehire you if needed in the future because it is a normal circumstance instead of a problem. Also, you’re more likely to need to mutually end your employment instead of being flat out fired.
how to ask for a transfer to another location
Be Professional
Your letter should be written in standard business-letter format, just like any professional correspondence.
A written relocation transfer request letter should begin with your contact information, the date, and the contact information for your supervisor or human resources manager.
Your letter should begin with a formal salutation, your purpose for writing, and evidence supporting why your request should be considered.
Politely request the supervisor’s assistance in gaining a position at your preferred location. Use an appropriate closing to end your letter.
Say Thank You
Be sure to express your appreciation for their help and, if you can, include some kind and complimentary sentiments for your colleagues at your current job.
Include Your Resume
It’s a good idea to include a copy of your resume, to refresh your manager’s memory regarding your skills and qualifications.
Make sure you update your resume and tweak it to match the job description of your target position first.
Use Sample Letters to Guide Your Writing
The more professionalism you present, the better your chances of having your transfer approved. Use examples for requesting a transfer to a new company location as inspiration for your letter.
Be sure to customize your letter for your situation.
Edit and Proofread Before Sending
Proofread all your documents carefully. Paying attention to the details shows that you’re interested in doing a good job, making your supervisor more likely to help you with your request.
Request for transfer letter sample
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally request a transfer to the [Location] office of [Company Name]. I have been with the company for [X amount of time] and have enjoyed my time here, but I believe that a transfer to the [Location] office would benefit my personal and professional growth.
The opportunity to work in a new location would allow me to expand my skills and gain new experiences while helping the company achieve its goals in a new market. I have researched the location and found that it would be a great fit for my skills and interests.
I understand that a transfer may cause some disruptions to the company, and I am willing to do whatever is necessary to ensure a smooth transition. I am willing to provide training to my replacement, and I am confident I can find a suitable replacement quickly.
I am very excited about the prospect of working in the [Location] office and I am confident that I can make a valuable contribution to the team. I would be happy to discuss this further in a meeting or over the phone.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
To ask for a transfer to another location for a job, it is important to first discuss the matter with your current supervisor or manager.
Explain your reasons for requesting the transfer and express your continued commitment to the company. Provide relevant information about the new location, such as its potential benefits for your career development or the company’s operations.
Be prepared to discuss potential solutions or alternatives, such as telecommuting or flexible scheduling, if a transfer is impossible. It’s also important to have a plan in place for a smooth transition, such as finding a replacement or training a new employee, to minimize disruption to the company.
Wrapping Up
As you can tell, getting fired for requesting a transfer is possible. However, the negative reasons for this are typically a sign of a toxic workplace anyways, and you’re better off.
Some final tips to get a transfer request include:
- Make a strong case for why the transfer benefits you and the company.
- Show that you have the skills and qualifications needed for the new position.
- Build a good relationship with your current supervisor and colleagues, and ask for their support.
- Be flexible and open to different options, such as a temporary transfer or a lateral move.
- Be willing to negotiate and find a solution that works for everyone.
- Be professional, respectful, and patient throughout the process.
- Show willingness to help in transition process
- Show your dedication and commitment to the company.
We hope this helps and best of luck with the transfer!
Title: Can You Be Fired for Requesting a Transfer?
Category: Development
Author: Becky is a contributor for theJub. She’s a writing and talent acquisition specialist who loves to apply her skills through creative writing and editing.
