How to Resign
Congratulations on turning a new chapter in your life! There is nothing like starting fresh with new opportunity. We have always been firm believers in connections - never burn your bridges, because the world of business, especially in some career sectors, is not always as big as they may seem. People talk!
Here are a few tips on how to gracefully close your last chapter, and keep your reputation growing positively.
Finalise your new job
Look at your old contract, work out how much notice you have to give, then put that proposed date in your letter. Make sure you dot every I and cross each T before you hand in your notice. Get everything for your new job negotiated and finalised, get your start date sorted and your contract signed.
Write a resignation letter
It doesn’t have to be long so keep it brief and positive. A few manners go a long way, so don’t forget to thank them for their help and the opportunities they have given you. Include the date of your last day/shift.
Did you have roles that only you knew how to do?
Impart your knowledge of how certain things work with your boss if needs be, or let other colleagues know how to do what you do. This way, when you are going it will not be such a shock to their system. The transition of you leaving will be smoother as a result. Work hard until that last step out that door. It will leave a good impression with that employer; this may be useful in the future.
Resign with humility
Nobody likes a separation via text or email. Take the time to organise a face to face meeting with your manager, show respect for them by telling them to their face that you are leaving, and paint it in a positive light. Also make sure you are the first to tell them, and that it doesn’t run around the rumour mill first. Professionalism throughout your notice period is important, end on a high and remember that your current boss is probably going to have to give a reference to your new boss.
Exit interview
Just as you interviewed to get in a job, you may be asked to have an exit interview. These are usually ways to find out if the company has any areas in which it can improve. Maybe the reason that you are leaving has occurred before. Can it be resolved for others? Bear in mind that this is not a platform for slander or negativity. If you have something to say, make sure it is constructive.
Finally, if you are leaving to work for a competitor, do not be alarmed if you are escorted out of the building or put on gardening leave. Leave with your head held high and with your dignity.
