Congratulations! You’ve decided to leave your current job for a new opportunity or challenge and it’s time to resign form your current position. Doing so requires planning and professionalism; you never know what the future holds and if you might cross paths with your company or coworkers down the line. This article will guide you through the resignation process to ensure you leave a positive impression.

Prior to Resigning: Consider Your Position

• New Job? It’s ideal to have a new job before resigning but this isn’t always the case. Make sure to prioritize job hunting while still fulfilling your current duties.

• Review Your Contract: Make sure to study your employment contract or company guidebook. You’ll want to understand what the acceptable notice period is and if there are any severance particulars you need to be aware of.

• Finances: Consider your financial situation especially if there will be a gap between your employment. Starting a new job can be stressful, being confident about your finances will ease that burden.

Resigning: Professionalism is Key

• In Person: It’s best to schedule a one-on-one meeting with your direct supervisor and formally tender your resignation in person. Doing so is a sign of respect and will most certainly be appreciated.

• Clear and Concise: Communicate the fact that you will be leaving and offer your last day of employment. There is no need to elaborate on your reasons for leaving. Most importantly, do not use this as an opportunity to air any grievances you may have.

• Express Gratitude: While you’re leaving the organization, it’s helpful express thanks for the experience gained and skills learned.

• Handover Help: Offer to assist with the handover by training a replacement or providing insight to others who may take over your duties.

Resignation Letter: Formal Confirmation

• Follow up in Writing: Write a formal resignation letter reiterating what was discussed in the meeting with your supervisor.

• Quality & Content: Make sure the structure is professional. As in your meeting, express gratitude and offer assistance with task handover. Make sure to proofread before you send it.

Leave on Positive Terms

• Maintain Professionalism: Continue to fulfill your current obligations until the end of your employment. Don’t shirk your duties or bad-mouth the company because you’re on your way out.

• Knowledge Transfer: Ensure that there is documention on ongoing projects and tasks that you’ve been working on. Train your replacement or whomever will be filling your roll while they search for one.

• Inform Colleagues: Personally let your close colleagues know that you’ll be departing. Leaving on a positive note is vital for maintaining a professional network.

Details to Remember

• Benefits: Don’t forget to take advantage of paid time off you may have incurred. Also make sure to ask Human Resources any questions you may have about health insurance, retirement benefits etc.

• Company Property: Make sure to return any company property who may have in the office or at home and any credit cards you may have been issued.

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Here are two example Resignation Letters that may provide some guidance should the time come for you to leave your current job. They are concise, positive, and professional but you should feel free to adjust them based on your position/company, and personalize them if you prefer.

Example #1

Date

Mr./Ms. Your Name 
Job Title 
Company Name 
Company Address

Dear (Supervisor’s Name),

Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as (your Position) with (Company). My last day will be (day, date).

Thank you very much for the opportunity to have worked for such a (adjective) company. I’m learned so much in my (how long you’ve been with the company) years and have greatly enjoyed and appreciated the opportunities I’ve been given.

I’ll do everything possible to wrap up my duties and train other team members over the next two weeks. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help during this transition.

I wish (Company) continued success, and I hope to stay in touch in the future.

Sincerely,
(Your Name)

Example #2

Date

Mr./Ms. Your Name 
Job Title 
Company Name 
Company Address

Dear (Supervisor‘s Name),

I’m writing to give my formal notice that I’ll be leaving my role as (your Position) for (Company) on July 31.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve been provided working on the (your team) team for the past (how long you’ve been with the company) years. It’s been a wonderful experience to work for such a great company and help in work towards (company’s) mission to provide (Company’s mission).

Please let me know if I can be of any assistance during this transition. Thank you for all your guidance. I wish you all the best, and look forward to keeping in touch.

Sincerely,
(Your Name)

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Remember, resigning from a job is an opportunity to make a lasting good impression. Follow the above guidance to ensure a smooth exit and to strengthen your professional network. Good luck in your new position!