So you have decided to move on. Whether that is to another job or change in career or just a sabbatical. Regardless of the reason you are resigning from your position, it is always important to leave on good terms. Handing in a Letter of Resignation allows you to leave your current job in the most professional and polite way you can.
Also there are chances that in future you might need that previous employer to give you a reference, so it makes sense to take the time to write a polished and professional resignation letter. Here are few tips on how to do that.
Step one: Keep it basic
There is no need to create a dramatic ‘I quit’ video. Simply state the position you’re resigning from and the effective date. It is worth mentioning the details of your employment contract including the date you started. It does not matter whether the contract is written or verbal.
Step two: State your reason
Even though you would have probably shared with your boss your reasons for leaving, you still need to describe them here—keeping it simple is perfectly fine. It is important to have all the details in writing.
Step three: Thank the employer
It is always a good idea to thank your employer for the opportunity, describing some of the key things you’ve enjoyed and learned on the job. You can also state your willingness to help out with the transition whether it requires you to train the person taking over your role or finalising active projects you were working on.
Step four: Sign and Date
Once you written the letter make sure you sign and date the letter. Keep a copy for your records so that way you will have proof of the date you submitted it, and proof of the day that will be your last day at work.
Step five: Give enough notice period
When you resign, you usually need to tell your employer a date in advance for your resignation to come into effect. This is called “giving notice”. The date you give will be the date of your last day of work. The amount of notice you have to give may be specified by your contract. If you don’t have a written contract, the general rule is to give the same notice as your pay cycle (e.g., if you get paid every fortnight, you should give fortnights’ notice).
In conclusion, make sure the letter of resignation is straightforward and contains all the necessary information; name, job title, last date of work and employment contract details. A good resignation letter sets the tone for both your transition and how you will be remembered by your employer.
You can easily create a letter of resignation with LawPath in under 5 minutes.
Unsure where to start? Contact a LawPath consultant on 1800LAWPATH to learn more about customising legal documents, obtaining a fixed-fee quote from our network of 600+ expert lawyers or to get answers to your legal questions.
