What to Do with the Keys When Closing Up the Shop: A Comprehensive Guide
As a valued employee, you might find yourself in the position of closing up the shop for the day. It is a scenario that may seem straightforward but can easily turn into a confusing situation, especially if the boss asks you what to do with the keys right after informing you to shut down the business. This guide will help you navigate this common workplace scenario with confidence and clarity.
Clarifying Instructions from Your Boss
When your boss asks you to close up the shop and you are unsure of what to do with the keys, your best course of action is to seek clarification. It is essential to ensure that your actions comply with company protocols and expectations. Here is a suggested approach:
"It really depends on the relationship I had with them. If I was friendly and it was an amicable separation, then I'd ask them what they want me to do with them. If I could maybe drop them off the next day or whatever. If it wasn't an amicable separation or I'm not overly friendly with them I'd either tell them I'm not closing and if they were at all a competent boss they wouldn't ask someone on their last day to close."
No Boss Would Ask You to Close Up on Your Last Day
It is important to understand that no sensible boss would ask their employees to lock up the shop on the last day of employment. Here’s why:
Proactive Steps: A competent boss realizes the strategic importance of ensuring the office is secure and all company possessions are accounted for before an employee leaves. They would ensure you have a smooth departure rather than placing you in a confusing situation. Trust Issues: Asking an employee to lock up on the last day implies a lack of trust, which is not a professional or ethical management practice. Post-Employment Security: If you leave the premises on the last day, the boss would likely want to visit the office to secure it or have someone do it themselves to avoid any potential security breaches.Proactive Measures for Closing Up the Shop
The ideal situation is to have clear instructions from your boss on what to do with the keys. If you do have clear instructions, follow them to the best of your ability. However, in unexpected scenarios, you can take the following steps:
Secure the Workplace: Before leaving, ensure that all doors and windows are locked and that the premises are secure. This can prevent any unauthorized access to the office. Turn Off All Systems: Power down any computer systems, lights, and other electronic devices. This not only saves energy but also ensures that no sensitive data is left unsecured. Contact Your Boss: If you have the keys and no specific instructions, find a way to contact your boss. Ask, “"Boss, once I have locked up what do I do with the keys"” or a similar phrasing. Ensure you are clear and concise in your communication. Take the Keys with You: If you are in doubt, keep the keys with you and notify someone who can collect them securely after you leave. This shows your commitment to workplace security and ensures that no miscommunications occur.Conclusion
Your responsibility as an employee is to maintain the security and integrity of the workplace. While your boss should provide clear instructions, it is crucial to take proactive measures to ensure that your actions are safe and secure. Always strive for clear communication and proactive action in all your workplace responsibilities. By doing so, you will not only protect the company’s interests but also maintain a positive professional relationship with your employer.