Making a good last impression is just as important as making a good first one. When it comes to quitting your current job, whether it’s because you found a better one or just can’t stand working there another day, you should leave on a good note. A good resignation letter will strengthen your relationship with your boss and the organization, thus leaving you with a good reference and a reliable network of coworkers and managers. As much as you may want to burn some bridges by giving your horrible boss a piece of your mind, it’s not worth it in the long run. Take the high road, and leave your job on a positive note by writing the perfect resignation letter.
A resignation letter should be short and to the point. You don’t want to go too in depth explaining your reasons for leaving. The Ladders believes that it is best to start off by addressing your boss by their first name on a casual and friendly level instead of a stiff and formal “Dear Mr. Riley.” You want the tone of the letter to be somewhere along the lines of a thank you note. It should be warm, casual and full of appreciation.
After addressing who the letter is to, it’s time to state your resignation. Be effective and to the point, giving no space for counter offers by the organization. The best way to do this is to say you are resigning and provide the date of your last day. The date you hand in your letter should be at least two weeks before your last day. For higher management, that time is generally more than two weeks.
Once you have stated your resignation, it’s time to explain why you are resigning. Whatever the reason may be, follow it up with how much you learned and accomplished with the organization. Make sure you express your gratitude and appreciation for working with your boss and coworkers, and being part of the organization for however long you were there. Also, show how much you care about the organization in this time of transition. Offer your help and support.
For the end, close it on a positive note. Extend your best wishes to the company’s future and everyone you worked with. Emphasize one last time how much you appreciate the opportunity you had to work there.
When you decide to resign, you will want to have a meeting with your boss to discuss it. At the end of the meeting, hand them your perfectly well written resignation letter. If all goes well, you’ll leave this job on a good note and have a long lasting relationship with the organization which will help you land a better job in the future.
IMAGE: Courtesy of On Target Coaching
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