fbpx
resignation letter

How to Write a Resignation Letter [+ Free Template]

How to Write a Resignation Letter [+ Free Template]

Share this post:

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Whether you have a new job offer from another company, want to become a freelancer, or have any other reason to leave your current job, it is a nice gesture (and in some cases a requirement) to write a resignation letter.  

We never know what tomorrow holds for us. Extending a resignation letter can be a backup for a possible future with the company, with either a comeback, a partnership, and even a recommendation from them for a new job position. Follow these 4 tips to write an effective resignation letter.  

4 tips for writing a resignation letter 

No need to be emotional 

You may be quitting your job because the work environment is overwhelming, or you have a rough relationship with a coworker or boss. Whatever your case may be, a resignation letter is not the ideal outlet for these emotions. So, before writing the letter, take a moment to clear out your mind. 

Focus on what you have learned while working at this company, no matter how long you’ve been there. You are not the same person that you were when you started. All of the experiences, good and bad, make you a more capable and experienced professional in your field. 

Now, that doesn’t mean you have to describe your entire journey on the resignation letter. Just keep that in mind while writing it. When people feel appreciated by you, it is more likely that they’ll make positive remarks about you down the line. 

Don’t wait until the last second 

Make sure to at least give a two weeks’ notice. Do not turn in the resignation letter the day before you leave! That might tear down your entire reputation at that company. By submitting the letter in advance, your organization can start searching for your replacement, ask you to train them, and prepare for your departure. Just try to inform your manager about your decision as soon as possible. 

Dealing with sensitive situations 

If you feel that you need to explain the reasons for your departure, avoid stating direct conflicts. Hopefully, the separation is in both parties’ best interest, so coming across as resentful is not going to do you any favors. Also, don’t trash-talk about any of your bosses or coworkers. It’s not worth your time, and it’s also not likely that they’ll do something about it, especially if you have expressed those concerns before without seeing any results. 

Of course, if your reasons have to do with a case of discrimination, hostility, or any kind of sexual harassment, then do speak up! Most companies have a process where HR will interview you to know why you are leaving. This ideally would be a safer place for you to state your concerns or claims. If the company you currently work for does not have those processes, write it down on your resignation letter.  

Keep in mind that your safety and integrity come first, if you were in a compromising situation don’t’ hesitate to take the necessary and legal measures to try to right the wrong. 

Mind your last impression 

Last impressions are as important as the first ones. The world is too small: people meet new people every day, and your network can overlap with theirs. Use that in your favor. Make sure that when someone hears your name, they only say positive things about you. Leaving a great last impression is the master key for future opportunities. 

Resignation letter template

Follow these recommendations to write a resignation letter. This way, you will be less generic and give a better explanation if you need to. If you are not sure how to get started, download this resignation letter template and keep these tips in mind. 

RELATED ARTICLES
The Key to Find Top Talent
Workforce Trends: Closing the Skills Gap
3 Facts on How COVID-19 Changed Recruitment

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO FIND?

Subscribe to our blog

DON'T MISS AN EPISODE

SUBSCRIBE NOW
By clicking Send you agree to the gpac privacy policy and Terms of Service and you authorize gpac to contact you regarding gpac’s services at any phone number or email you provide, including via text message using an automated dialing system and/or artificial or prerecorded message.