Walking Out Gracefully: How to Resign like a Pro

What you should and shouldn't do to resign without burning a single bridge

3 August 2016 | by Imriel Morgan

Moving on to an exciting new job? Well done! All you have to do now is hand in your resignation. Easy, right? Follow our tips and you’ll be on your way to your new job without burning a single bridge. Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do.

Do

Leave For The Right Reasons
Before you press ‘send’ on that email, check you’ve explored all the options. If you like your current employer but are leaving for a better salary, make sure they know that. An employer who values you might make a counter-offer.
Keep Your Letter Formal
Don’t start airing grievances. Keep your resignation letter simple and functional. Make it clear right from the first sentence that you are serving notice to the company to resign your position.
Confirm Your End Date
Ask HR to confirm what your official end date will be. If you want to leave earlier, check to see if you can use any remaining holiday entitlement.
Work Your Notice Period
Confirm your notice period and any other obligations you may have. Don’t stop caring. Work your notice period like a pro and do everything you can to ensure a smooth handover. Your last impression is as important as your first and will be remembered.
Request a Reference
It may not seem vital with a new job already secured, but you never know. Ask your manager for a written recommendation right now or permission to use them as a future reference.

How to Resign Like a Pro

Don’t

Withhold Gratitude
Whatever you do, don’t burn bridges. Former employers will move on and could open unexpected opportunities for you in the future. Try to leave on the best possible terms, so make sure to include something positive about your experience in your resignation letter.
Lie
Don’t make up a reason for leaving. In most situations, it’s better to say nothing at all or save it for your exit interview. If you can’t think of anything, just make your reason ‘career progression’ or a ‘better opportunity.’
Unleash The Fury
Hate the company with a passion? Keep a lid on the rage. Tell relevant managers in person, not in your resignation letter. Always keep your criticisms constructive. Request an exit meeting to explain how you believe the company could change and improve. If you feel you’re being forced to resign then explore your legal rights, join a trade union and file a grievance.