How to Resign Properly (Including a Free Template)

Let’s assume you have already received an offer for your dream job (if you want to learn how to achieve this, check out my book, Get Your Dream Job). Congratulations! As you prepare to embark on this exciting new chapter, it’s crucial to handle your resignation from your current role with care. A well-managed resignation not only protects your professional reputation but also avoids potential legal and tax implications. Here’s how to navigate this process smoothly:

1. Resign Formally

I often get asked how to resign properly—whether you should speak directly to your boss, send an SMS, or choose another method. My advice is to always resign formally, in line with the laws and regulations of your jurisdiction.

Why Formal Matters: While it’s polite to discuss your resignation with your manager, always submit a formal resignation letter or email first. This step ensures that there’s clear documentation and helps you avoid potential issues, disputes, or unnecessary delays.

Format & Delivery:

• Email: Generally acceptable in many countries, providing an efficient and documented trail.
• Written Letter: Required in some places; check your company handbook or consult HR.
• Dual Submission: Deliver your resignation to both your manager and HR to cover all bases.

A Free Resignation Template: To ensure you're on the safe side and to make the process easier, I’ve designed a resignation template that you can download here. You can use it for delivering your resignation in both written letter format and via email.

Caveat: In order to protect yourself, you should only resign once you have a signed employment contract with a confirmed start date in your hand (see also my earlier post here). Otherwise, if something goes wrong at the last minute and the new company withdraws the offer, your current employer may not be obligated to let you retract your resignation. It’s a situation you definitely want to avoid, but I’ve seen it happen many times.

2. Communicate Professionally

Initiate the Conversation: Right after submitting your formal resignation to HR, schedule a meeting with your boss. During this meeting, inform them of your decision and discuss your transition plan. This plan should include:

• Transition Timelines: Agree on your end date and how your responsibilities will be handed over.
• Notification: Determine who else needs to be informed and the method of communication.

Maintain Confidentiality: It’s important to keep the details about your new job, such as the name of the company and your salary, private until you officially begin your new role. Sharing this information prematurely can lead to problems, such as someone speaking negatively about you to your new employer, which could affect your reputation.

3. Manage Your Notice Period Wisely

I have observed how even a long-time, high-performing employee can damage their professional reputation in the final weeks of their employment. The professional world is interconnected; you never know when you might cross paths with former colleagues again or need their positive references in the future.

Professionalism Counts: The way you conduct yourself in your final weeks will significantly influence the impression you leave behind and impact your personal brand. Ensure you:

• Complete Tasks: Ensure that all your projects are finished before you leave.
• Make a Smooth Handover: Provide a detailed handover to ensure a seamless transition for whoever takes over your responsibilities.
• Leave on Good Terms: Refrain from making any negative remarks about the company, management, or colleagues during your notice period.

Remember, maintaining a positive attitude helps ease your departure and preserve your professional reputation.

4. Handling Counteroffers

Sometimes, after you resign, your employer might make a surprising move: a counteroffer. This could involve better terms, a higher salary, or even increased responsibilities. Deciding whether to accept a counteroffer isn’t straightforward. I’ve explored this topic in detail here.

If Staying is the Goal: If you’re considering leveraging a resignation to get a better offer from your current employer, tread carefully. It’s a delicate process and requires a strategic approach. Learn how to handle this scenario like a pro in my previous article here.

5. Conclusion

By following these steps, you can resign gracefully and start the next chapter of your professional career with peace of mind.

Don’t forget to download my free resignation template. It’s professionally written and includes everything you need for a proper resignation. This template will save you time and effort, and you can be confident that you’ve done your part correctly. And even if you’re still waiting for your dream offer, download it now and save it for future use. You never know – your dream job may be just around the corner!

Good luck!

You may also like:

• AI and the Future of Work: How to Stay Relevant in an Automated World
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• 5 Resume Mistakes That Will Land You in the Rejection Pile

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