How To: Resign Gracefully
Congratulations, you have found a new position and cannot wait to move on to this new and exciting opportunity - but while there may be many interesting ways to tell your current boss you are leaving, make sure you don’t burn any bridges.
Resigning can be an emotional time, you may have worked at the company for many years and have developed a strong sense of loyalty, or you may have no interest in returning to your present employer ever again! However, you never know when paths my cross again with your ex-employer or colleagues in the future, so leaving the door behind you fully open for future networking is essential. Keeping your exit graceful and dignified shows you as the professional you are, regardless of whether you are leaving under a cloud or not.
Planning for a smooth handover
Before resigning from your position take the time to think about a transition plan for your job responsibilities and unfinished projects. Consider putting a list together of any urgent jobs that will need attention and highlight any priorities to ensure a smooth transition when you leave. Offer to train up your successor so they have a clear understanding of your current responsibilities before you go, all of this will keep your reputation intact and minimise the negative impact of your departure.
The Resignation Letter
When creating your resignation letter keep it short and polite. You do not need to justify your decision to leave, merely use it as an opportunity to highlight that you are grateful for the opportunities the position and company has given you, but that you have chosen to move on. Avoid the temptation to highlight any failings of the company or your boss, merely mentioning what you appreciated about the opportunity keeps dignity in check, and ideally always deliver the letter by hand.
Paragraph One - The Basics
“I am writing to formally give notice of my resignation from my position as (job title), at (name of employer)”
According to the terms of my contract my notice period is (x weeks) therefore my leaving date will be (x).
Paragraph Two - Thank Your Employer
“I would like to thank (name of employer) for the opportunities and support you have given me and I have enjoyed my time working for (name of employer)”.
Paragraph Three - Smooth Transition
“I will do my utmost to complete any existing projects and will assist and support the handover process to ensure there is a smooth transition”.
Yours Sincerely
Tell The Boss
You need to make sure that you tell your boss that you are leaving before you tell anyone else. Your manager deserves to be told first so hold back from telling co-workers before you have informed your manager. Consider how you will handle the situation if your manager offers you a counteroffer to stay with the company. Have your resignation letter ready to hand to your boss when you verbally resign.
Prepare Your Story
Speak with your manager about how and when you will explain your departure to colleagues. Whatever you reason for leaving the company make sure you keep your story consistent and your reasons positive, not negative.
Clear The Desk
Once your boss and co-workers are aware that you are leaving the company start to remove personal items from your work area and ensure a clean workspace for the next person who will be taking on your role within the company. Start taking home personal items during your notice so nothing can be forgotten or left behind.
The Exit Interview
Don’t be afraid of the exit interview; this is a meeting that will usually be held between you and the HR department and is a chance for the HR department to find out any ways in which the company can be improved or if there are any issues within the company that they were unaware of. Use this an opportunity to highlight any issues but avoid the temptation to bad mouth your boss or the organisation, keep any issues you have professional, constructive and non-personal.
Westwood Harris Burns are specialists in Executive Search and Senior Finance appointments within the Public Sector; with particular expertise in NHS, Housing and Charity Sectors. With over 60 years combined experience, we have extensive knowledge of the market, proven track records and established networks, allowing us to provide a wide range of services to both clients and candidates alike.
To learn more about how we can support you to either build your team or career, visit our Get In Touch page.
