How To Resign Gracefully

Congratulations on your new job offer!

You have worked hard to get this new opportunity and there will be much to celebrate.

As someone savvy enough to land a new role you’re excited about, you also know how important it is to leave your current role the right way. You never know when you will cross paths with your boss again, or if you may want to return to your organization at some point. So, it’s important to leave with the same respect and professionalism you started with.

Now for the difficult part: handing in your resignation at your current role. Whether you are on excellent terms with your Manager, or have absolutely no relationship with them apart from your weekly meetings with 30 other employees talking about targets and budgets, you should always remain professional when resigning.

1.Notify your Manager/HR and give them a resignation letter

Prepare your resignation letter to take into the meeting with your Manager/Director/HR team. Take the time to explain your reasoning, and if the news does come as a shock, be prepared to answer questions about why you have decided to leave. Be polite and remember to thank them for the opportunities they have given you.

In your resignation letter, you should incorporate the following:

·       Addressing the letter to your manager or HR department contact, including the date the letter is written

·       If applicable, refer to the notice period in your contract

·       Specify the date that your resignation takes effect

·       Include a brief mention of your intention to resign

·       Thank them for the opportunity to work there

2.Check your notice period

Give adequate notice by checking your contract of employment and ensuring you can work your notice. Whether it be two weeks or one calendar month, state this to your employer and let them know when you last working day will be. If you are owed any holiday, make sure you settle this too.

3.Return company property

Make sure you return any company property such as laptops, mobile phones, memory sticks and keys to the office by your last day. Remember, it is likely these will be given to your replacement so it will make the transition much smoother if these are returned in timely fashion.

4.Be professional

Be professional throughout the whole process of handing in your resignation, all the way to your last day. Remember, your employer will be the one providing you with a reference. Offer your help and support in the transition, and volunteer to train up new and existing staff on your responsibilities. Make the hand over as clear and pleasant as possible.

5.Say your farewells and thank-you

Thank your team for the opportunities and support during your time there. If there is a colleague you did not particular see eye to eye with, be the bigger person and wish them all the best- you can walk away feeling proud!

6.Exit interview

You may find a HR representative at the company will ask you to participate in an exit interview. This is your opportunity to reflect on your experience at the company and be honest with your feedback. 

However, it is important not to divulge confidential information or damage someone’s reputation that still works there. Share what you think works at the company and what may need adjusting. If there are areas you think the management/company could improve on- let them know. These exit interviews tend to me the most honest feedback provided and help to support the development of the company.

Lastly, you never know when your paths may cross again with your employees, Manager or the Director- so remain professional and avoid getting a bad reputation. You may find your Manager becomes the CEO at your new company!