Resignation Tips

The final order of business in transitioning jobs involves resigning from your current employer. When you take this last step, it’s important to do so with as much professionalism as possible.  This can be a very emotional event, and you must be prepared for a resignation much in the same way as an interview.

Create a Resignation Letter

You have your new job offer in hand and a start date circled on your calendar. It is time to start writing a resignation letter. This should be a one-page document informing the company of your intention to resign your present position, your appreciation for your tenure at the company, and your expected date of departure.

A few important details or tips to consider when creating your letter are:

• Use a professional business format whether by email or printed out
• Be clear about the last day you will work
• Keep it brief
• Try to show appreciation for the experience of working there
• Offer to help with the transition process
• Stay positive during your last weeks
• Make sure your email/letter goes to the appropriate people

• As an example of a resignation letter:

   

  Name of direct manager
  Title of manager
  Current company name
  Company street address
  City, State and Zip code

  Dear (manager’s name),

  I am writing to notify you that I am officially resigning from my position as (Current Title) with (Current Company), effective today. I have accepted a new position with another company in Atlanta and have given my personal and professional commitment to begin work on or before (official start date).

  I appreciate the work I have been given during my time with (current company), as well as your professional guidance and support.  This is an extraordinary opportunity that is too good to pass up.  My family is fully supportive of my decision.

  I wish you and (name of company) the best of success this year and in the future.

  If I can assist with the transition to my successor, please do let me know.

  Very sincerely,

  Signature (hard copy letter)

  (Jill Employee)

   

  Cc:  Human Resource Manager

Telling Your Boss You are Leaving

Resignations are best done by asking your superior for some time at the end of the day to discuss something personal. Approaching your superior at a specific time shows professional courtesy.

At that time, present your resignation letter. Acting in a confident manner will let your superior know that you are serious and not merely pressuring for a raise or promotion or both. You are not required to reveal the name of the new company or the contents of your offer package. Those are personal items, and you are perfectly within your rights to withhold that information.

Remain calm and be very complimentary of your superiors and their operation. They will likely pressure you to reveal your specific reasons for leaving. It is best to focus on the general elements of the new job opportunity and not what is lacking in your current position.

How to Conduct Your Exit Interview

Another step of resignation is the physical exit interview. It is essential to provide a positive and clear understanding of your intention to leave the company. Your superiors have likely been caught off guard, so make every effort to maintain a good relationship with them. You never know who your boss will be in the future or when you will need a letter of recommendation. You could potentially burn your bridges by using this opportunity to focus on all the things that you perceive as needing improvement. You are moving on to a new opportunity and should leave any negative experiences at your old company in the past.

Working Your Last Few Weeks

Working out your termination notice is sometimes awkward and difficult. Make the most of it by relating positive comments to co-workers, performing your job effectively, and enhancing close friendships in the company. You should try to remember that you will be missed and saying goodbye is hard after working together for a long period of time.

When it is all over, it is time to celebrate! The long road to job transition has come to an end. Make sure that you treat key friends or family members involved in the process to a well-deserved meal or special outing. Your job search has affected their lives as well.

Considering a Career Change?

If you are considering a career change and want trusted advice and guidance, our consulting firm can help. JL Nixon Consulting offers a comprehensive array of services to each of our candidates. Our goal is to take the “guesswork” out of the process and help you become as professional and informed as possible. Contact us at (210) 649-1500 or here to learn how we can guide you today.