How To Perfectly Resign from Your Current Employer

How To Perfectly Resign from Your Current Employer How To Perfectly Resign from Your Current Employer I’m smiling as I write this because if you’re actually reading these words you’re in a, uh, situation. You either read everything I write no matter what (that’s a situation in and of itself), you’re considering resigning, about to resign, or wondering how you completely screwed up your recent resignation. I’m, of course, not happy about your situation, but am thrilled to offer some comfort and guidance on how to perfectly resign from your current employer. All good things come in threes or fours or, oh, whatever… There are two critical stepsâ€"for certainâ€"you should take to actually resign: write the resignation letter and conduct the resignation discussion. Of course, there are other potential aspects such as transferring your knowledge to whoever will acquire your duties. Yawn. You’ve already checked out, so let’s skip the boring details in this tasty article. There’s also my personal favoriteâ€"the dreaded counteroffer. Don’t get me started. Here’s all I have to say on this matter. Check out The Counterofferâ€"How To Go from Acceptor to Extortioner in One Decision. Can I just text ‘em? The resignation letter. Please, for the love of all that is holy, sit down and type an actual letter to your employer. (It’ll take four minutes if you copy what I’ve written below.) It’s the least you can do! There are only three (hey, there’s that three thingy again) pieces of information you need to communicate: your gratitude, your resignation, and your last date of employment. This is the classy step and will look favorable should you consider returning. Would only return if hell froze over? Fine. Then trust me when I share some dayâ€"I promise and pinky swearâ€"you will face a former employee who now works for a company you want to join. It’s a law of the universe. Here’s your sample: Dear Jilted Employer, Thank you so much for the opportunity to work at [insert your company name]. I’ve gained valuable experience I appreciate and will cherish. This letter is to inform you I’m resigning from [insert your position here]. My last day will be [insert date here with a two weeks notice or whatever exception your employment contract requires]. I’ll be happy to transfer my knowledge to whomever you designate over the next two weeks. Thank You, Excited to Leave Employee The resignation discussion. After you’ve prepared your letter and are ready to resign, gather your personal belongings or computer files in the event your employer walks you to the door upon receiving your notice. It’s always better to be safe regardless of what you’ve observed during your tenure. When you resign, it’s typically best to discuss it verbally before handing the appropriate person your letter. When you convey your resignation verbally, be sure to use definitive words and language such as “I have already accepted another offer.” Stay away from expressions such as, “I’m considering another offer,” because that leaves room for your employer to misinterpret your intentions. Whether you’re providing your verbal or written resignation, make sure to avoid mud-slinging or unconstructive remarks that could be misconstrued as frustration. No good can come of this. If you care to provide constructive feedback for your current employer, you’ll likely have the opportunity to present it during an exit interview. During that time, keep the remarks upbeat and professional. But, you can’t leave because all the plants will die… No one likes to be fired, especially not employers. For the most part, employers, especially those with which you have developed a lengthy, successful relationship, will be disappointed when you resign. They will likely want to understand your rationale. Sometimes they want to understand it to determine whether there is something they can do to keep you. Oftentimes, they are simply looking for feedback and improvements they can channel into the remaining employee base. If you feel it necessary to engage in this dialog, you are best suited to discuss points the new employer offers your current one simply cannot. This usually helps avoid the back-and-forth of “what if we do this or that?” Regardless of your situation, make sure to be definitive and gracious. The outcome will be fine. Most importantly, you’ll be on to your new adventure! As always, I’d love to hear from you: Any good resignation suggestions? If you love insight like this, be sure to grab Interview Intervention: Communication That Gets You Hired while its still free. Just click the pic and go. Already have it? Head to the milewalk Store FREE STUFF section. There are loads of valuable giveaways! Just click the banner and go!