Turning in your resignation isn’t always easy; whether you are taking a new career path or simply heading towards a new challenge, it is preferable that you resign gracefully.
Whether you hate your job, hate your boss and can’t wait to start the new job, you should know how to resign tactfully without burning any bridges that might be obstacles to future opportunities; you never know when you will need your past employers for a reference.
This article covers several ways a person can make their resignation as smooth as possible.
Take a final decision:
Be sure that you really want to quit; consider all your options and be absolutely sure that this is the right decision.
Give notice:
Abide by your employment contract or by the Labor Law with regards to the notice period you ought to give your employer. If your employer asks you stay longer than the time period in your contract, you have no obligation to stay. Your new employer will be expecting you to start as scheduled, and in a timely manner.
Prepare a letter of resignation:
Prepare a brief, non-confrontational and professional letter of resignation. Sign it and add the date. Don’t forget to specify your last working day.
Request a sit down conversation with your employer:
This is the hardest part of the resignation process. To assure smooth occurrence, follow these advices:
-Ask for an appointment with your employer to discuss an important matter.
-Talk directly, honestly and politely to your boss.
-Be prepared to discuss reasons behind your resignation; refrain from explaining why you are resigning, where you will be working and how much more money you will be making.
-Emphasize the positive and thank your employer for his support.
-Decline a counter offer; most people who accept counter offers neglect it and leave their position six months later.
-Have a signed copy of your resignation in hand.
-Submit your resignation letter, shake hands with your employer, smile and thank him.
Keep the details of your new job confidential:
Resist entreaties to share the details of your future position with anyone.
Ask for a Reference:
Before you leave, ask for a letter of recommendation from your employer. As time passes and people move on, it’s easy to lose track of previous employers. With a letter in hand, you’ll have written documentation of your credentials to give to prospective employers.
Don’t Forget the Details:
Find out about the employee benefits and salary you are entitled to receive upon leaving. Inquire about continuing health insurance coverage, collecting unused vacation and sick pay.
Return Company Property:
Return any company property you have – including keys, documents, computers, phones, and anything else that doesn’t belong to you. The company doesn’t want to chase you to get it back, and you don’t to be held responsible if it’s not returned in a timely manner.
Look at the future:
Focus on your new opportunity – not your past company. Remember to maintain contact with your previous colleagues; after all you were friends for quite a time.
Good Luck
