Handing in your notice can be a daunting experience and most people feel nervous and apprehensive by the prospect of telling their boss that they are leaving.
Before you hand in your notice, please be clear on the following:
What was it about your current job that made you want to explore new job opportunities?
Why are you resigning?
Do you have 3 good reasons why you no longer want to stay in that job?
Do you have 3 good reasons why you are going to take up your new job opportunity?
What would make you stay in your current job?
Do you think things would be different in 3-6 months in your current job should you decide to accept a counter offer?
How to hand in your notice professionally
Your aim is to be professional, graceful, and in control of your resignation and the final weeks that you have to work in your current role. Most people will make 2-3 job moves as a minimum in their career and often those moves are made to further yourself and develop. It’s normal to feel a little anxious before resigning but staying focussed on why you are moving jobs is important to avoid feeling guilty or being persuaded to stay.
Where to start?
So, take some deep breaths, write your letter (an example template is below), book a meeting or call in with your boss – stay in charge of the next stage of your career.
Writing your resignation letter – tips
Formal and clear – it doesn’t need to be filled with emotion – you will have opportunity to say goodbye to each person individually in the coming weeks.
Short and sweet – there is no need for the letter to be more than 2 brief paragraphs
Grateful and courteous – being mindful to thank your leadership team for the opportunities and support they have shown to you
Detail focused – remember to include the date that you are giving notice from and the last day that you will be employed by the business
What to do next?
Book in a meeting / call where both you and your boss can focus with no distractions. It’s never good to just drop a resignation in at the end of a meeting or just mention it in passing.
Explain that you are resigning from your role and wanted to take this opportunity to thank them for their support and guidance while you’ve been working with them.
It’s up to you if you wish to disclose your next job role and company – but there is no obligation for you to give that information to your boss.
Make sure that you keep the meeting factual based and focussed on your own career goals and your plans for progression.
Starting a new job is an exciting time for anyone but getting over the hurdle of resigning from your current job is never easy. Be mindful that your boss is unlikely to want you to leave so, if you have made your mind up, you will need to be strong and clear on your intentions and be very aware of the likelihood that they may come back with a counter offer which you need to handle in the right way.
TOP TIP
If you are moving jobs mainly for a payrise but are generally happy with all other aspects of your job, speak to your boss prior to resigning about your current salary and benefits package. It may be that they can increase your pay.
What can you do to make your departure smooth?
There will inevitably be a gap in the team as you leave – it’s important that you offer your support in the handover and for a smooth transition where possible to make your departure seamless. However, it’s not your responsibility to help with the impact your departure may have, you can only extend the offer to support any transition during your notice period.
An example resignation letter
Dear…….
I would like to inform you that I am resigning from my position as …………..…… at ………………… effective (add the date that you hand in your notice) and my last working day with XYZ company will be (insert date).
Thank you very much for the opportunities for professional and personal development. I have enjoyed working in your team and appreciate the support provided to me during my tenure with the company.
If I can be of any help during this transition, please let me know.
Sincerely,