Resigning From a Job: How to Leave Professionally
Leaving a job is an important professional decision. Whether you're moving to a new opportunity, changing careers, or leaving for personal reasons, a thoughtful resignation can help you transition smoothly and maintain positive professional relationships.
Quick Answer
To resign professionally, review your employment contract, confirm any required notice period, tell your manager directly when appropriate, submit a clear written resignation, complete your remaining responsibilities, and prepare for the handover. Keep your communication professional even if your reason for leaving is negative.
In This Guide
What Does It Mean to Resign?
Resigning means voluntarily informing your employer that you intend to leave your job.
People resign for many reasons, including:
● Accepting another opportunity
● Changing careers
● Returning to education
● Relocating
● Seeking different working conditions
● Personal circumstances
● Wanting new challenges
You don't have to provide every personal detail behind your decision.
Before You Resign
Don't make the decision based only on a difficult day.
Before submitting your resignation, consider:
Your Employment Contract
Check notice requirements, relevant resignation procedures, outstanding obligations, vacation or leave arrangements, and company property that must be returned.
Your Financial Situation
Consider whether you have enough financial stability for the transition, particularly if you don't already have another role.
Your Next Step
If you're leaving for another job, make sure you understand the new opportunity and its conditions before making irreversible decisions.
How to Tell Your Manager
When practical, speak with your manager before sending a formal written resignation.
Keep the conversation concise.
Example
"I wanted to let you know that I've decided to resign from my position. I'll provide my formal resignation in writing, and I'll do everything I can to make the transition smooth."
You don't need to turn the conversation into a long explanation.
How to Write a Resignation Letter
A resignation letter should generally be straightforward.
Example Resignation Letter
Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [Job Title].
My intended final working day is [Date], in accordance with my notice requirements.
Thank you for the opportunities and experience I have gained during my time with the company.
I will do my best to support a smooth transition during my remaining time.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Adjust the wording to your circumstances and employment requirements.
Giving Notice
Your notice period is the period between formally resigning and your final working day, according to your employment arrangements.
During this period:
● Continue performing your responsibilities
● Complete important tasks where possible
● Document useful information
● Communicate outstanding work
● Support the handover
● Remain professional
Avoid treating the notice period as a reason to stop caring about your work.
Preparing for Your Last Day
A good departure includes a useful handover.
Create documentation covering:
● Current projects
● Outstanding tasks
● Important deadlines
● Relevant contacts
● Regular processes
● Useful files or resources
● Potential problems or risks
The level of detail depends on your role. A well-organized handover can make your departure easier for both you and your team.
What About Your Coworkers?
You don't need to make a dramatic announcement.
If appropriate, let close colleagues know and thank them for working with you.
A simple message can be enough:
Example
"I've really enjoyed working with you and appreciate all your help. I'm moving on to a new opportunity, but I hope we can stay in touch."
Maintaining professional relationships can be valuable long after you leave.
Exit Interviews
Some employers conduct an exit interview before an employee leaves.
You may be asked about:
● Your experience
● Management
● Work environment
● Reasons for leaving
● What the organization could improve
Be honest, but remain professional. If you have criticism, focus on specific experiences and constructive observations rather than personal attacks.
You Don't Have to Burn Bridges
Even if you're excited about your next opportunity, your current colleagues can remain part of your professional network.
Future opportunities may come through former colleagues, former managers, professional references, industry contacts, or recommendations.
Leaving professionally keeps those relationships intact.
What Not to Do
Avoid:
● Resigning impulsively during an argument
● Sending an angry resignation email
● Sharing confidential company information
● Neglecting your responsibilities after resigning
● Speaking negatively about colleagues to everyone
● Taking company property or files
● Making promises you cannot keep
● Assuming your employer will react exactly as you expect
Resignation Checklist
Before Resigning
✓ Review your employment contract
✓ Understand your notice requirements
✓ Consider your next step
✓ Organize important personal and professional information appropriately
After Resigning:
✓ Submit your formal resignation
✓ Confirm your final working date
✓ Continue working professionally
✓ Prepare a handover
✓ Complete outstanding responsibilities
Before Leaving:
✓ Return company property
✓ Complete required administrative steps
✓ Save appropriate personal records
✓ Thank relevant colleagues
✓ Maintain useful professional relationships
Best Practices
● Think through the decision before resigning
● Review your contractual requirements
● Keep the resignation conversation professional
● Put the resignation in writing
● Confirm your final working date
● Make the handover easy to follow
● Protect confidential information
● Leave respectfully regardless of your reason for leaving
● Keep relationships professional after departure
Prepare for Your Next Opportunity
Leaving a job often marks the beginning of your next career chapter. When you're ready to apply, Resumee can help you turn your experience, achievements, and skills into a tailored ATS-friendly resume.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much notice should I give when resigning?
It depends on your employment contract and applicable employment rules. Check your agreement rather than assuming a standard notice period applies.
Do I need to explain why I'm leaving?
Usually, your resignation can be straightforward. You may choose to give a reason, but you don't necessarily need to provide extensive personal details.
Should I resign before finding another job?
That depends on your financial situation, career circumstances, and reasons for leaving. If possible, consider the risks and benefits before making the decision.
Can I resign by email?
The appropriate process depends on your employer's procedures and your employment arrangements. If you're unsure, check your contract or company policies.
What should I do during my notice period?
Continue performing your responsibilities, complete important work, communicate outstanding tasks, and support a smooth handover.