Resignation Advice

Throwing the Towel In?

Once the elations and celebrations of your new job offer sink in, you're face with the daunting task of submitting your resignation with your current employer.

Before you shout about your shiny new career from the rooftops, it's courteous to write your letter of resignation. The last thing you want to do is burn bridges with your current boss who found out you were leaving via social media.

The Letter

Writing your letter of resignation doesn’t have to be a mammoth task. Try to keep it as short and sweet as possible. Avoid any negative comments that may tar your glowing reputation, and focus on your new career and new company.

The People Pod have provided some Free Resignation Letter Templates to help you out…

Download our Free Resignation letter template – Full Notice Period Version

I will stick around! (Format - doc Size 29kb)

Download our Free Resignation letter template – Reduced Notice Period Version

I want to leave now! (Format - doc Size 30.5kb)

The Discussion

Organise a meeting with your boss to sit down face to face. (Preferably not first thing Monday morning, or last thing on a Friday - because spoiling your boss's weekend shouldn't be on your agenda).

Present your resignation letter to them, explaining professionally, that you have accepted a position elsewhere and made the commitment to join another company.

Keep your language as business-like as possible - this is not an opportunity to get everything off your chest.

Should you be able to work your notice period, let your manager know when you will be leaving, and that you are prepared to offer a full business handover to make the transition process as smooth as possible.

The Reaction

Be prepared for a variety of reactions from your employer, or colleagues. Hopefully, you will receive congratulations and well-wishes, but there is a possibility of guilt trips and disappointment. Often when an employee resigns, it is perceived as a negative reflection on the company or management. People will ask why you’re leaving - don’t fall into the trap of unloading your criticisms. Remain professional and keep in mind your reason for leaving – developing your career.

Some companies have a policy of asking you to leave immediately if you are going to work for a similar company or competitor. Be prepared if this is the case.

The Counter Offer

Your employer may propose a counter offer. Assuming you are a glowing employee, it might be difficult and expensive to replace you. They may tempt you with more money, a flashier title, more holidays, a desk with a window view… Whatever the benefits, accepting a counter offer can be a costly mistake. There is still a reason you were leaving in the first place…

The Notice Period

Your notice period is a fundamental part of a smooth resignation process. When working your notice period, don’t fall into the trap of becoming demotivated or carefree – your reference still hangs in the balance, and a good handover will set you in good stead.

It may help to keep notes and organise your workload, ready for your successor. Show that you are still as dedicated to the company as you always were. You’ll be glad that you did.

The Send-Off

Your last day with the company will probably be a more relaxed, tying up loose ends, eating doughnuts and sharing memories of Christmas do's gone by. If you’ve been the great employee you think you have, your colleagues may even do the ‘whip around’ for a nice send-off present! (Don’t feel obliged to make a speech – others still have work to do!)

You may be asked to attend an exit interview with your line manager – this helps the company gather feedback, and any useful information to pass on to your successor. Be positive throughout, and resist any temptation to criticise colleagues – it’s unprofessional, and risky – you may end up working with them again in the future!