Looking to make a step up in your career? Found a role with a better salary or benefits? Or simply just fed up with your job?
There are lots of reasons you might decide to resign. No matter what’s behind your decision, one thing remains the same. You should handle your resignation gracefully and professionally.
How you handle your resignation will leave a lasting impression on your employer and colleagues. It’s always best to leave on good terms. You never know when you might need a reference or when you might cross paths with ex-colleagues in the future.
Based on our experience of candidate resignations (both amicable and hostile!) these is our 5 step guide to managing a professional and pleasant resignation.
Secure a new role if you can
If you plan to continue working after resigning, it’s always best to secure a new role first. If you’ve not found one already, your best bet is to speak to a specialist recruiter in your industry.
Specialist recruiters will have lots of great connections that they can utilise to help you find the perfect job. Their industry-specific expertise also means they’re better placed to understand the type of roles you're interested in and how you can secure one.
At Talent Locker, we specialise in Technology, Business Change and Workplace recruitment. We've been able to use our expertise and connections in these sectors to help hundreds of candidates land their dream job.
If you have to leave without securing a new role, make sure you’re financially prepared to do so. This will avoid being persuaded to reconsider your resignation, and only having to repeat the process further down the line. In our experience, once you’re ready to go – it’s time to go.
Tell your manager
It's never an easy conversation, but you should always tell your manager first. They will appreciate you coming to them directly and explaining the situation.
Arrange a meeting in person or via video call if you work remotely. During your conversation, you might want to explain the reasons you've decided to resign. Whilst it's good to do so, you should keep the conversation positive and professional. If you have any specific grievances to raise, it's best to save these for your exit interview.
Despite leaving, you want to maintain a positive relationship with your manager. You should take this opportunity to thank them for the support and guidance they've provided whilst working for them.
Submit an official letter of resignation
Once you've spoken to your manager, you can submit your resignation letter, officially triggering the exit process.
Your resignation letter needs to include:
- Your name
- The date
- Your job title
- The date of your last day (your notice period will be stated in your contract)
- Your signature
The letter should be addressed to your manager.
In your letter, you may also want to include your reason for leaving, thank your employer and ask them to confirm any tasks you need to complete before your final day.
Remember, a resignation letter is an official document - your language should reflect that. Write in a formal tone and remain professional throughout.
Complete your handover
Your behaviour during your notice period will have a lasting impact on how you're viewed by your employer and colleagues. It might be tempting to put your feet up, but your team will be relying on you to pass on all the knowledge and experience you've gained during your time in your role.
You should ask for confirmation of anything you need to cover as part of the handover process and then try your best to get through it all.
Making an effort to support your team during this period will be really appreciated. Remember, your professional network is one of the best assets you have during your career. It's best not to burn any bridges by leaving your team in the lurch.
Thank your team
So, you've completed your handover and made it to your last day. There's only one thing to do now - thank your team.
Whilst most companies will organise a leaving do, it's also worth sending a group email to all the colleagues you've worked with at the company. You can thank them for all their help and support over the years and wish them all the best for the future.
If you would like our specialist team to support you in handling our resignation and finding your new role, we’d be delighted to help. Simply send us a message or give us a call and we’ll begin the process together.