These days, it is rare for a person to stay employed with one company forever. It is inevitable therefore that at some point during your career, you will need to write a letter of resignation.
There are many reasons why an employee may decide to terminate their employment. A change in personal circumstance such as moving house, starting a family or even travelling the world can all contribute to resignation. Other common reasons for leaving a company include: threat of redundancy, stress, poor relationships with managers / colleagues, lack or progression or being headhunted for a better opportunity elsewhere.
Whatever reason you have for resigning, you want to maintain a positive relationship with the employer for two main reasons. Firstly, you will need a reference from them. Most future employers will require two or three references from the most recent employers. You don’t want to put your new job in jeopardy by arguing with your current boss about how bad the pay was and how poorly you were treated. Secondly, there may be a point in the future where your career takes you back to the very same company that you resigned from!
If you are leaving to go to another company, ensure you have a firm offer of employment before handing in your letter of resignation. Most job offers will be verbal initially, with a written offer and contract following shortly afterwards. We always advise our candidates to wait for a written offer before resigning from their current role.
We would always advise writing a letter of resignation as this allows you to prepare what you want to say and communicate your reasons clearly and succinctly. Keep the letter as simple as possible, and remain positive, perhaps thanking your employer for the opportunities that he or she gave you. Once the letter has been written, arrange a meeting with your employer to discuss it.
To remain on good terms with the employer, it may be a good idea to offer to help find a suitable replacement and help with the training of new employee if time permits. Be as flexible as possible with notice periods, ensuring any outstanding work or projects are finished to the best of your ability and remain polite and professional throughout the process.
Below is an example resignation letter.
Example resignation letter
[Date]
Dear [Manager’s Name]
Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from [Job Title] at [Company Name] with effect from [date of letter].
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at [Company Name] and am grateful for the opportunities that you have given me. After much consideration, I have decided to accept a position at another organisation.
If I can help in anyway to recruit or train my replacement, please do let me know.
I hope that you are able to provide me with a positive reference in the future. I wish you and the company all the best.
Yours Sincerely
[Your Name]