January 19, 2023 | Maria Cruz

How To Write A Perfect Resignation Letter


So, it’s time to part ways with your company. Maybe you found a better opportunity elsewhere or you just knew it was time to move on. Whatever the case may be, you’re now in the position to write a resignation letter. But, how do you put one together? What kind of information should you include? Here are some important factors to include before you pack up your desk.

Why Resignation Letters Are Important

If you double-check your contract, you may see that you’re required to hand in a resignation letter before leaving. This gives your employer ample time to find a suitable replacement. It also allows you to get your ducks in a row before heading toward new opportunities.

Resignation letters are also a great way to ensure that you don’t burn any bridges. After all, you never know when you’ll run into someone again and in what capacity. Also, if you need references, why not turn to old employers you still have a good relationship with?

Also, these letters can help protect you from any potential legal action. Employers will sometimes take their employees to court for wrongful resignation . Try not to storm out in a huff. The last thing you want is to deal with any headaches a few weeks before you start a new job.

Man Using Ballpoint PenPexels

What Information to Include

First and foremost, you’ll need to include basic information like:

  • your name
  • the date
  • when you’re planning to leave
  • a clear statement that you’re quitting

Of course, the name and date should be a given. The date is an important piece to include because you’ll want to have it on paper when you sent in your letter and be able to track the time to your last day. But, you’ll also want to be as clear as possible when stating that you’re quitting and also when you’re planning to leave. You don’t need to be snide, but there shouldn’t be any misunderstandings either.

Remember that having a written document stating your resignation is a good tool to clear the air. Just like with promotions or raises, you don’t want something this serious agreed upon verbally. Put it in writing so everyone is on the same page, literally.

Person Using Macbook AirPexels

Offer to Help With the Transition

If you really want to be a good sport or if you have some extra time on your hands, you can always help out. Mention in your letter that you’d be more than happy to assist in finding your replacement, training them, or even staying on longer if it helps out. Now, you’re under no obligation to actually go above and beyond, but if your employer really earned it, there’s no shame in helping out.

Assisting in the hiring process shows that you’re committed to your job even as you’re planning to leave. It helps you part with your company on good terms and guarantees a smooth transition for your employers.

Group of People Sitting IndoorsPexels

What Not to Include

Let’s say that your time with The Man has been less than savory. It may be tempting to rip them to shreds in a resignation letter, but try to hold it in. Exit interviews are great places to air your grievances without putting all your complaints on paper. Additionally, your formal letter is a professional send-off; it’s not really a place to burn bridges. Plus, if you insult your employers, it may come back to bite you.

That being said, you also want to make sure that you don’t come off as insincere. Speak from the heart, but be matter-of-fact about your reasoning. If you blow smoke up your boss’ butt, it may make them question why you’re leaving in the first place. This could lead to them asking you to stay or making your final two weeks harder. Be honest and don’t lay it on too thick.

Don’t be afraid to hand in that letter. When it’s time to go, it’s time to go. Just make sure you don’t ruin any potential relationships and that you’re clear. Plus… you’ll want to proofread your work once or ten times before submitting it. After that, you’re on to new things!

Woman Sitting on Chair While Leaning on LaptopPexels


READ MORE

123

Employees Reveal The Most Outrageous Customer Complaints They've Ever Heard

Whether it's an employee error or just a simple misunderstanding, customer complaints can happen at any time but are always equally annoying.
March 14, 2019 Andie Wood
doctors

Doctors Share Their Horrible Patient Stories

Everyone loves a good medical story. Doctors, nurses, and other members of the medical profession get to witness humanity at its absolute dumbest.
March 19, 2019 Molly Seif
creepiest

Scared Parents Revealed The Creepiest Things Their Kids Ever Said

Most of the time, kids say the darnedest things. Other times, they say the most disturbing things that leave parents scratching their heads.
March 19, 2019 Jess Silverberg
momsinternal

Moms Share The Dark Secret They Know Their Child Is Hiding From Them

Kids are sneaky, but moms are sneakier. They have years of experience being sneaky, and they know a whole lot more about our dark secrets than we think.
March 20, 2019 David Chung
secretsinternal

People Share Dark Family Secrets That Made Them Say 'It All Makes Sense Now'

Family histories that are often riddled with secrets. Some are small things, while others are the kind that should never be told under any circumstances.
March 25, 2019 Casey Fletcher
patientsinternal

Patients Reveal The Most Hurtful Thing A Medical Professional Has Ever Said To Them

Being a patient is hard enough, but when the medical professional you are seeing is insensitive, it makes the already unsettling experience even worse.
April 11, 2019 Molly Seif


Want to learn something new every day?

Stories that matter — delivered straight to your inbox.

Thank you!

Error, please try again.