How to Resign From Your Job

Congratulations, you have got a new job! Now, you just need to break the news. Make no mistake there are right ways and wrong ways of handling your resignation.

Are you sure?

First things first, make sure you are absolutely, 100% happy with your decision. Moving onto a new employer brings many great opportunities, but ensure you think before you quit. Don’t do it in the heat of the moment, after an issue with a colleague or a run in with your boss. Everything settles down in time, but it’s not always possible to go back.

Cross your t’s and dot your I’s

Ensure that you read through your contract and have a clear picture of what obligations you have with your current employer. What is your notice period, and do you have any ‘no competition’ clauses in your contract? Read the fine print and make sure you’ve covered off any legal obligations.

Covering the very basics

You will need to put together a formal resignation letter (include your name, the date, the person it’s addressed to, notice of termination of employment, when it’s effective from and your signature). It is also worth noting than your new employer can ask to see your resignation letter, so ensure you make it positive and professional.

Quitting etiquette

Chances are you’ll be invited to a meeting to discuss your decision, so you need to know what you want to say and how you want to say it. The main thing is to emphasise the positives because you never (NEVER) know when you might need your current employer down the line. So be calm, collected and diplomatic. Thank your employer for the opportunities they’ve given you and keep those emotions in check.

Dealing with counteroffers

If your decision to leave is based on pay, set your boundaries before resigning. Your employer might offer to bump up your pay – or offer you career progression. Would you be happy if that were the outcome? Or are you leaving for bigger reasons? If your career change is based on more than money, don’t be swayed. And don’t ever be tempted to resign purely to prompt a pay rise. Not every employer will make a counteroffer and you could find yourself without a job when that was never the intention.

Don’t burn bridges

You have been a great asset, so your company needs time to replace you. If you’re in the middle of a big project, try to see it through to the end. If you absolutely can’t, work closely with your colleagues to ensure a clear, concise hand over. Your new boss could need to speak to your old boss for any number of reasons and if you leave under a cloud you won’t be doing yourself any favours.

Changing jobs is often a big step and one that presents many opportunities and challenges. Whilst resigning can be fraught with mixed feelings, ultimately it is something that everyone goes through and in order to progress your career and expand your journey – it is a necessity.

To have a discussion with our team about your next career steps, contact us today!