Ready to resign from a role? You’re not alone, this is something that the majority of workers will go through at some point in their careers. It could be because you’ve got a better opportunity, you want to take some time off, or you want to leave a toxic work environment. Whatever your reason for quitting your job, how you navigate through the resignation process can either help or harm you down the line. This is why it’s important to know how to resign the right way. In this article, we will guide you through the proper way to resign from your job, ensuring a smooth transition and leaving on good terms.
1. Plan Your Resignation and Be Sure of Your Decision
The first thing you have to do is to make sure that you are ready to resign. After taking all the steps needed in considering if you need a change, you can start planning your resignation. A few things to keep in mind;
- Be aware of the correct resignation etiquette.
- Do you have another role lined up?
- Think about how you want to deliver the news to your manager.
- Check your contract for the required notice period.
- Prepare thorough handover notes.
If you’re still actively looking for your next job, it might be better to hold on until you’ve officially accepted another offer. This is to avoid an unemployment gap. However, if you feel like your work environment is too toxic, you may go ahead and resign. Remember to approach this professionally and respectfully.
2. Write a Resignation Letter
A resignation letter acts as a legal document stating the date your notice period begins and your date of departure. Make sure your letter is short and straightforward, indicating the following;
- A statement that you’re resigning.
- State the reason why you’re leaving without including emotional reasons.
- State key dates – including the start and finish of your notice period.
- Express your willingness to assist in the handover process.
- Show appreciation for the positive experiences you’ve had.
- Sign off
After printing the resignation letter, keep a copy for yourself. Make the tone of the letter is light and as positive as possible because this will be part of how your employers will remember you.
3. Let Your Manager Know That You’re Resigning
It may seem easier to email your resignation letter to your employers but it is much better to let them know in person. You can do this by scheduling a meeting with your manager and respectfully informing them. Request a private and comfortable setting to discuss your decision in person. This shows respect and allows for open communication.
Your manager may ask why you want to leave. Make sure that you do not air out grievances and keep your feedback professional along the lines of showing gratitude and appreciation for the experiences and opportunities you’ve been given, but you believe the time has come for you to move into a different role. Be prepared to receive a counter-offer to try and convince you to stay. If you’re adamant about leaving, just make it known about your intention to honour your duties during the handover period.
4. Wrap-Up and Transition Work
Once you’ve told your employer that you’re resigning, there will be some time left in your job before you officially leave. During this period, finish ongoing projects and discuss with your supervisor who will handle the tasks you can’t complete before your last day. Make sure to document your daily work, where important files are saved, and how to use the equipment. This will help the person replacing you transition smoothly into the role.
If you meet the one replacing you, make sure you teach everything the person needs to know about the job. This will make your employers appreciate you more because you’ll be saving them precious time and resources. Remember to leave your workplace how you found it when you joined. Make sure you delete all personal files, organise files clearly for your replacement, and clean your desk.
If you’re leaving for a job with a competitor, be prepared that you may need to return your equipment and leave on the same day you give your notice. This is a standard practice to prevent sharing company data with competitors.
5. Work Hard Till the Final Day and Grant an Exit Interview
Always remember to give off your best in the transitional period because you want to leave a positive impression of yourself. We understand how emotional or difficult resigning from a job can be sometimes, especially if you are leaving on bad terms; however, you might need the company someday so there’s no reason to burn any bridges.
If your company conducts exit interviews, be prepared to provide constructive feedback. Employers often do this to gain insights into why you’re leaving and if there are major issues about their company that they aren’t aware of. Avoid making complaints but offer constructive ideas on how you feel they can improve.
Conclusion
Resigning the right way is about maintaining professionalism, showing gratitude, and ensuring a smooth transition. By following these steps, you can leave your current job on good terms and set yourself up for a successful and rewarding future. Remember, resigning is a natural part of career growth that most will face at least once, and handling it with grace and integrity will leave a lasting positive impression on your professional journey.