Job Discussion Forums

Mikeylikesit114 · Joined: 21 Dec 2007 Posts: 129

When would be a good time to renegotiate one's contract for the following year? Is it better to kick things off early, or wait until the last minute (and make it harder for them to find a replacement if they can't give me what I want)?

For the sake of reference, I am teaching at a University in Shenzhen, in a somewhat specialized program.

StephenAlexander · Joined: 28 Oct 2008 Posts: 10

Most contracts say that you have to get 30 - 60 days notice for leaving, I'm assuming the same would be for resigning?

arioch36 · Joined: 21 Jan 2003 Posts: 3589

Hard to say. The biggest possible payday is when you wait until very late, and they all of a sudden realize they desparately need you. If both sides are agreeable, any time is good, but in my mind, two months before the end of the contract seems a common time to first mention it, but if the contract is essentially going to be the same, any time

The standard SAFEA contract actually has a clause saying if the contract is to be extended, when it should be done. Not that important though

China.Pete · Joined: 27 Apr 2006 Posts: 547

Most schools will begin their summer holiday in late June or thereabouts, and their winter holiday around the time of the Lunar New Year. They will want to have any new hires from abroad lined up and provided with the requisite visa materials before then (during the summer break, when the leaders are away, it can be nearly impossible to obtain the necessary invitation letters, etc.). That process can take up to several weeks, so you should probably initiate any renewal talks before the middle of the term in which your contract is ending. Only wait until the last minute in hopes of a bigger payout if you can afford not to care whether you stay or not. Your bargaining position is strongest when they can't bear to contemplate life without you; weakest when they've found someone who will take the job for a lot less money.

arioch36 · Joined: 21 Jan 2003 Posts: 3589

Dear China Pete. Will you please stop saying what I meant to say better then I actually said it? U R giving me a complex Wink

China.Pete · Joined: 27 Apr 2006 Posts: 547

Arioch.

monkey-fish · Joined: 24 Jul 2009 Posts: 1

Do you have to sign another contract before the first one's up?

Mister Al · Joined: 28 Jun 2004 Posts: 840 Location: In there

If you want to re-sign then it pays to do that. No period without salary then.