How to prepare for a job resignation
July 13th, 2023
Whether you’re looking to move onto something new, making a career change, seeking retirement, or relocating, you’re required to write your employer a formal letter of resignation.
This article will provide our guidance on how to resign from your job with ease.
Checklist:
✔️ Check your notice period: before you conduct the formal procedure of handing in your resignation notice, ensure that you know your company's resignation policies and double check your notice period. If your notice period is 3 or even sadly 6 months its worth trying to negotiate this as you won’t want to be hanging around too long in a job you want to leave!
✔️ Check your current contract T’s and C’s: be wary of policies surrounding working for competitors. If you are an active studier, it’s also worth doubling checking if there is any pay back in your contract.
✔️ Speak to your boss first: the discussion about leaving your current workplace is one to have with your boss directly – ideally face to face if you can arrange this. Ensure that your boss hears it from you first.
✔️ Schedule a meeting: bear your employer’s professional needs in mind by scheduling a meeting in advance. Giving them a head’s up and understanding the procedure they must follow will stand you in good stead.
✔️ Exit interview procedure: most businesses offer an exit interview; take it. An exit interview gives you the chance to share feedback and have a constructive conversation with your boss. Stay professional, be polite and don’t over criticise the company.
✔️ Review and sign your new contract: if you’re looking to start a new job elsewhere, it’s wise to wait for the paperwork and review the new employment contract. Ask any questions before signing the paperwork, you are then safe to resign.
Formulating your letter of resignation:
✔️ Professionalism: as a formal document, a professional tone is required for your notice of resignation. Even if you have a close working relationship with your boss, you need to remain professional.
✔️ Give thanks for your employment: whatever your experience has been in the workplace, always thank your boss for the opportunity to work with the company.
✔️ Stay away from critical detail: keep it short, sweet and to the point. Your resignation letter is not a place to register your concerns. Leaving on good terms is always wise, you never know when paths may cross again.
Resignation letter example:
[Your Name]
[Address]
[Date]
[Company name]
[Company address]
Dear [Manager’s name],
I am writing to notify you of my resignation from my role as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. In accordance with my notice period my last day will be [date of last day].
I would like to thank you for the opportunity to work at [Company Name] and welcoming me onto the team. I appreciate the support given to me during my time with the company.
If there is anything I can do to aid the handover/transition, please let me know.
Kind regards,
______________ (signature)
[Your Name]
If you would like any further support on this topic or any advice about changing jobs, don’t hesitate to reach out to Clare at Vardey Recruitment.
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July 2023