How you leave a job can matter as much as how you start one. A graceful resignation protects your reputation and your references.
Be sure before you resign
Have a signed offer in hand before you tell your employer, and consider whether a counter-offer would change your mind. If it would not, decide that before the conversation.
Tell your manager first, in person
Ask for a private conversation, explain that you have decided to move on and thank them for the opportunity. Keep reasons brief and positive.
Put it in writing
Follow up with a short resignation letter that states your last day, in line with your notice period under your contract or award.
Make the handover easy
- Document your work and key contacts
- Finish or hand over open tasks
- Offer to help train your replacement
Leave on good terms
Stay professional through your notice period, avoid criticising the business and keep in touch with colleagues. Industries are smaller than you think, and today's manager may be tomorrow's referee.
