The final order of business involves resigning from your current employer. This can a very emotional event and one must prepare for resignation much in the same way as for an interview.

There are two basic parts to a resignation. The first part involves the writing of a resignation letter. Your resignation letter should be a short, one page document informing the company of your intention to resign your present position, your appreciation for your tenure at the company and your expected date for departure. A sample letter can be found below.

.

Today's date

(Present Manager)
Company
Street
City, State Zip

Re: Resignation

Dear (Manager):

I wish to inform you that I have accepted a position as (title of new position) with another company, as of (X date).

I want to assure you of my gratitude for a rewarding professional association during my employment with (current company), but feel that this move is in the best interest of my career at this time. Careful consideration was given to all aspects of the decision, particularly with respect to my own plans for my future. My decision is final and I have given my personal and professional commitment to begin work in my new position on or before (2 weeks from today).

My main thoughts now are to work as hard as possible to wrap up my affairs here and to turn over my responsibilities as you direct.

I would, however, like to begin work in my new position as soon as possible. Therefore, if for departmental morale reasons you decide to waive my termination notice, I understand. Otherwise, I will gladly do my best for this company through (two weeks from date of notice) if desired.

With sincere thanks, I wish you and your department best wishes and much success in the future.

Sincerely,

Your name

cc: Overall manager
Human Resource Manager

 

The other aspect of resignation is the physical exit interview. Care must be given to to providing a positive and absolutely clear understanding of your intention to leave the company. You have probably caught your superior off guard and every effort must be taken to maintain a good relationship with him/her. You never know who your boss will be in the future or when you will need a letter of recommendation. Burning your bridges by means of "setting the record straight" or airing your frustrations has never accomplished its intended goal.

Resignations are best done by asking your superior for some time at the end of the day to discuss something personal. Approaching your superior at a specific time shows professional courtesy. At that time, present your resignation letter. Acting in a confident manner will let your superior know that you are serious and not merely pressuring him/her for a raise or promotion or both. You are not required to reveal the name of the new company nor the contents of your offer package. Those are personal items and you are perfectly within your bounds by informing your superior to this effect. Remain calm and be very complimentary of your superior and their operation. They will pressure you to reveal your specific reasons for leaving. It is best to focus on the general elements of the new job opportunity and not what is lacking in your current position.

Working out your termination notice is sometimes awkward and difficult. Make the most of it by relating positive comments to co-workers, performing your job effectively and enhancing close friendships in the company.

When it is all over, it is time to celebrate! The long road to job transition has come to an end. Make sure that you treat those close to you or key friends involved in the process to a well-deserved meal or special outing. Your job search has affected their lives as well.

For additional information on this subject, please consult the following links.