Graceful Goodbyes: How to Resign from Your Job with Professionalism and Respect
There are a number of reasons why you have decided to progress your career somewhere else, salary is obviously a factor but so too is culture and recognition.
According to a number of recruitment professionals on Linkedin, “80% of people who accept a counter offer are back on the market after 6 months, 90% have found a new role before the year is out”.
I’m not quite sure these statistics are correct as I can’t find any credible articles that reference these figures. What I do know is that if you do decide to hand in your notice, be very sure that it is the best thing for you at that time in your life. While the grass is always greener be sure you have weighed up your options thoroughly and once you have decided to go be sure to stick to your guns. If, however, you are indeed handing in your notice in the hope of receiving a counter offer and you are successful then there is really no need for you to read on.
Now that you are adamant that you are leaving then hopefully the following step by step guide will help. Handing in your notice is a significant milestone and can cause some level of anxiety especially if you have been with a company for a long time, it’s really important to do it professionally and respectfully. We hope the following helps you during the process.
Prepare a Resignation Letter
Write a formal resignation letter addressed to your direct line manager. Keep it brief, stating your intention to resign and your last working day. Express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had while with the company. (Please see template at bottom of article).
Choose the Right Time
Arrange a private meeting with your manager to discuss your resignation. It’s courteous to do this in person if possible, rather than via email. Friday afternoon, for example, might be the best time for you but it may also ruin your manager’s weekend so be mindful of this.
Discuss in Person
During the meeting, clearly state that you are resigning and present your resignation letter. Be prepared to briefly explain your reasons for leaving, but keep it positive and professional.
Offer Assistance with Hand over
Assure your manager that you will do your best to ensure a smooth transition. Offer to help train your replacement or prepare documentation that will be helpful to your successor.
Follow Company Procedures
Some companies may have specific procedures for resignations, such as providing a certain amount of notice or completing exit interviews. Make sure to comply with these procedures.
Prepare Mentally
Be prepared for various reactions from your employer, ranging from understanding to disappointment. Stay calm and professional throughout the conversation. If you are resigning because you feel your skills would be better recognised in another company things are unlikely to change if you accept a counter offer so remember this if they offer you more money.
Gardening Leave
If you feel that there is a chance you may be placed on gardening leave, be prepared for this as you may be asked to leave immediately. Does your phone need to be returned, have you a company vehicle, what about everything in your desk drawers…
Thank Your Colleagues
After informing your manager, your colleagues can be informed but discuss how this is going to be communicated to them with your manager. He/She may want to tell them. Once they have been informed, thank them for their support and collaboration while working with them.
Hand Over Responsibilities
During your notice period, complete any outstanding tasks and ensure that your projects are in a manageable state for your successor.
Maintain Professionalism
Even if you have had negative experiences at the company, avoid expressing negativity during your resignation. This helps you maintain a positive professional reputation.
Resigning from a job is a normal part of professional life, and how you handle it can leave a lasting impression. By following these steps, you can see out your notice period in a relaxed manner and maintain positive relationships as you move forward in your career.
Resignation Template
Dear [Line Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Working Day, typically four weeks from the date of the letter*].
I have enjoyed my time at [Company Name] and am grateful for the opportunities for professional and personal growth that I have experienced here. I have learned a lot and am appreciative of the support provided by both you and the team.
To ensure a smooth transition, I am committed to completing my current projects and will assist in training my replacement as needed. Please let me know how I can help during this transition period.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to be a part of [Company Name]. I look forward to staying in touch and wish the company continued success in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
*Ensure you have reviewed your own contract for the correct notice period.
Article by Liam Walsh | Senior Recruitment Consultant Engineering | Berkley Recruitment