You’ve found a new job and are ready to leave your current position. But before you can start your new job, you have to resign from your old one.
Resigning can be a difficult and emotionally charged task. While it may be tempting to simply walk away from your previous company without looking back, it is always best to leave on good terms and be professional. After all, you will need a reference from your current employer when you start your new job.
In this blog, we will give you the dos and don'ts on how to write a resignation letter that is both professional and considerate to make writing your resignation letter a little easier.
DO list the position you are resigning from and the company name.
This is a letter that will be kept as a record, so you want to be clear about your role at the time of your resignation. Something like, “Please accept this letter as formal notice that I will be resigning from my position as _________________ with _________________.”
DON'T list all the reasons you are leaving
Listing all the reasons why you're leaving is unnecessary and could potentially damage your relationship with your current employer. If you have a negative experience to share, it is best to speak to your boss directly. It's also best to resign gracefully, with dignity, and not dwell on the negatives.
DO thank the company for the opportunities offered to you.
If you're wondering whether or not you should thank your previous company in your resignation letter, the answer is yes.
A few kind words can go a long way in maintaining a positive relationship with your previous employer.
It shows that you are grateful for the opportunity that they gave you and also sets the tone for your handover period. If you ever need to request a reference or advice, a positive relationship with your previous employer will make this process much easier.
DON'T get overly emotional.
If you had a good time at the company, feel free to include your appreciation for them. But, if you had a bad time, don’t allow your emotions to get the best of you.
Even if you feel angry or upset, chances are you have learnt some skills in the position that will help you in the future. Thank them for the opportunity; explain a few things you learned in the position, and move forward.
The business world is extremely interconnected, and you never know who you’ll need a reference from in the future. Be calm, be professional, and be rational.
DO explain that you will wrap up your work smoothly
Working your notice period to the best of your ability will make everyone's lives easier. You can use the time to train your replacement, tie up any loose ends and make the transition smoother for everyone involved, leaving your employer in a better position.
DON'T start projects you can't finish
Although you need to ensure to not lose momentum during your notice period, ensure you're not overloading yourself with tasks that will ultimately have to be handed off to your team. Just make sure your company know that you will continue to put forth your best effort right up until your last day.
Finally, DO make sure to include the date of your last day of work!
Obviously!
Whilst the purpose of the resignation letter is to inform your employer of your departure, it's also a chance to build and maintain relationships, leaving on a positive note.