When you have decided to move on from your current job it is better to resign with dignity without burning bridges in the process. Read our guide below on what to consider and how to go about it:
Be Sure
Be absolutely sure that you are making the right decision before handing in your resignation. They may welcome it and not allow you to take it back if you change your mind!
Look at your motivation – are you running to your next position or running from your current role? If it is the latter then make certain that it is not a simple case of needing to talk to your boss or changing some aspects of your job or lifestyle that is the root of the issue.
Talk to people whose opinion you trust and who have your best interests at heart about your decision before you make it formal: family, friends and mentors are a good place to start.
Doing the deed
Prepare yourself fully. Decide what you are going to say and accompany it with a brief letter of resignation. It should be short, detailing your notice of termination of contract and the date from which it is effective.
Slot in some time with your boss in advance and make sure it is somewhere private to tell them on a one to one basis. Give them your letter of resignation during the exchange to confirm your meeting.
Keep things brief. These can be emotive situations and it is hard to keep your own composure if the meeting starts to extend.
Be professional to the end
Conduct yourself with professionalism and decorum in the office. Assist with handovers and keep contact with colleagues who may be useful to you in the future.
Resolve any contractual details before you leave. For example, outstanding holiday payment; bonuses payment; whether you plan to take your work mobile number with you.
Even if you hate the place remember that you may need references. The future is unknown and it’s a small world. So leave on a positive note and stay in touch where you can.
Be Sure
Be absolutely sure that you are making the right decision before handing in your resignation. They may welcome it and not allow you to take it back if you change your mind!
Look at your motivation – are you running to your next position or running from your current role? If it is the latter then make certain that it is not a simple case of needing to talk to your boss or changing some aspects of your job or lifestyle that is the root of the issue.
Talk to people whose opinion you trust and who have your best interests at heart about your decision before you make it formal: family, friends and mentors are a good place to start.
Doing the deed
Prepare yourself fully. Decide what you are going to say and accompany it with a brief letter of resignation. It should be short, detailing your notice of termination of contract and the date from which it is effective.
Slot in some time with your boss in advance and make sure it is somewhere private to tell them on a one to one basis. Give them your letter of resignation during the exchange to confirm your meeting.
Keep things brief. These can be emotive situations and it is hard to keep your own composure if the meeting starts to extend.
Be professional to the end
Conduct yourself with professionalism and decorum in the office. Assist with handovers and keep contact with colleagues who may be useful to you in the future.
Resolve any contractual details before you leave. For example, outstanding holiday payment; bonuses payment; whether you plan to take your work mobile number with you.
Even if you hate the place remember that you may need references. The future is unknown and it’s a small world. So leave on a positive note and stay in touch where you can.