Resignation Basics
How to complete a job resignation with tact and class
Whether you love your job or hate your job, unless you plan to retire there, the time will come to tender your work resignation. The most common, and accepted, way to do this is by writing a resignation letter.Put some thought into your resignation. Don't just say the first thing that pops into your head. Your resignation from work should be simple, sweet, to the point and contain the following:
1. The date that your job resignation will take effect;
2. A brief mention of the reason for your work resignation. To take a new job, to relocate or something similar is completely adequate;
3. An offer to assist your employer with resignation basics, such as informing him or her of your in-progress projects.
Make sure your job resignation is for a good reason
Some people send letters of resignation in haste, because a client upset them or they had a confrontation with a coworker, and then live to regret it. It's best to be absolutely positive you're ready to quit, since it is not something you can easily take back.
Try: Take some time to plan out your work resignation. Read The Working Geek's article on why you shouldn't leave due to a personal conflict. Then, read The Digerati Life page for some reasons to leave and reasons to stay. Of course, if you have a new higher-paying job lined up, there's not too much to worry about.
Write your letter of resignation
Once you're absolutely sure you wish to resign, it's time to work on that letter. Resist the urge to use it as a way to get back at any coworkers who have wronged you. You don't want to burn any bridges, especially if you will continue to work in the same field.
Try: Check out sample resignation letters at Emurse and visit WriteExpress for tips on what to include. Remember, you don't have to go into excruciating detail, or even any detail at all, if you don't want to.
File your resignation information accordingly
Different companies have different policies regarding resignation. If you follow policy, not only will you leave in good standing, but you will also have a good chance at a positive reference for future employment.
Try: Check your contract to make sure you've met all your obligations or your employer may have grounds for a lawsuit. Visit FindLaw's page to research clauses that could get you into trouble. Then, if everything checks out okay, submit your resignation to your supervisor -- in person if at all possible. Check out Ask The Headhunter for advice about how to spend your last days to your advantage and leave without a bad taste in your mouth.
- Keep far away from the office rumor mill. You don't want your boss hearing about your resignation before you have everything finalized.
- Touch base with your former employers every once in a while, unless your resignation was on bad terms. You want to stay fresh in their minds in case you need a reference or would like to pursue freelance work.
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