How to Write the Perfect Resignation Letter...

The time has come, and you have decided to move on from your current role. It has been a chaotic few years, but with the job market currently in a boom, this is a great time to look for a new role and to start planning to leave your existing one.

Hopefully you want to leave on a strong professional note, where your colleagues will be happy to recommend you and leave the door open for future ventures.

Handing in your notice can be a different experience for everyone, for some it will be emotional, others a relief, and for some - simply part of the process.

The key thing is to do it well, and ensure your written communication leaves a strong, positive, lasting impression.

Stages of resigning

Before even writing your letter, I would argue that the best thing to do is to have a conversation with your hiring manager outlining your intentions. No one wants to walk into the office and see the envelope on their desk, plus verbal communication is always preferred, even in tricky situations. The letter should be written once your line manager is aware and ready to receive it.

Why write a strong letter?

Your letter of resignation is a great way to leave a formal positive message on your employment record at your current employer.

As you will have already spoken with management about your decision to move on to pastures new you can get straight to the point and confirm your resignation in writing and suggest dates for when your notice should come to an end.

Example....

Dear ....

To confirm, as per our conversation, I am formally resigning from my role as .... My final day will be (4 weeks from the date is usual - but check your contract if unsure.)

Saying thankyou?

This part is not needed in a letter of resignation, but it can set the tone for your notice period and close the relationship on a positive note. I would advise that you thank your employer for the opportunity and identify key areas where you feel you have grown in the role and skills you have acquired as a result of being with the business. The person you are addressing will be writing your reference and compliments can go both ways.

Commitment to the end...

Finally, the worry of many an employer when an employee hands in their notice is that they may not be as dedicated during their notice period. Use this part of the letter to confirm that you will be focused up until the point of leaving, explain how you will complete outstanding work, and offer to help train on any areas that you may have expertise in.

You can just stick with a simple letter that gives dates, however, in my opinion, taking the time to add detail to your resignation ensures your notice period should be smooth and ensures you remain professional. Plus this letter will stay on file and if you ever decide to reapply for a role it will be there, showing your commitment levels for anyone looking to check out your history.

Not quite found the role to make writing your resignation letter a reality? Have a look at our current opportunities on our website.