Professionals are switching jobs at a rapid pace these days. It seems like every time you log into LinkedIn, your feed is saturated with connections announcing their new roles at new companies. Job hopping used to be a term associated with a negative connotation, but now, people like and applaud with hand-clapping and heart emojis.
So, we know a LinkedIn post is a must to notify your peers about your career change, but how should tell your current employer? Well, the proper way is to submit a resignation letter, and it’s important you draft it with care.
Assuming your decision is final and won’t be swayed by a counteroffer, the resignation letter is the last step to ending your current position. While it’s a formal and a courteous step, it could hold value later in your career—for instance, if you need a reference or eventually become a boomerang employee and return.
For all the above reasons and more, read on to learn 5 Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter.
- Show appreciation
It’s best to show appreciation for all that you learned at your current employer. Thank them for everything you accomplished together including any training or certifications you received during your tenure. A resignation is not the place to include any grievances or issues related to your role. You can leave that for the exit interview.
- Leave out the why
There is no need to go into why you are leaving the company. Keep it short and to the point that you are resigning and include the date of your last workday. You may get asked to leave before that date, but it’s important to include one – typically at least two weeks out is best.
- Refrain from bragging
If you’re at the point where you’re resigning, you’re likely excited about the new role and company. However, do not include all the great things you’re looking forward to at the new place. In fact, you do not need to mention where you are going unless it is a conflict of interest or part of a non-compete agreement. Often, the new employer will inquire how your resignation went. Be sure to specify you submitted a formal letter of resignation. It sends a message to them about how you handle challenging situations and indicates your level of overall professionalism.
- Offer transition support
You want to make it as easy as possible for your employer during your transition. Therefore, mention that you can help train or support the company however they need in the timeframe before your official departure. Whether that consists of training team members or writing processes indicating in your letter that you can assist in your transition will go a long way.
- Leave it open for future possibilities
The term Great Resignation is being coined for a reason. Many individuals are leaving jobs for higher pay, flexible work environments and other work-life balance perks. But sometimes, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, and they wish to return to their previous employer. That’s why it’s important to keep your resignation letter diplomatic and positive—and if you choose to ask for your old job back in the future, it could be your ticket through the door (again).
Did we miss anything? Comment below if you have other suggestions for writing a resignation letter.