The Resignation Process
The way in which you resign should be done respectfully and properly. Due to inexperience, it’s not surprising that some candidates resign without planning what they are going to say, and where they are going to say it; should it be in person or via email or text?
By following these simple steps your resignation will be a straight forward and stress free process.
The Resignation Letter
Your resignation letter should be factual and be straight to the point. Once you are happy with your letter, schedule a brief meeting with your line manager.
Here is an example letter:
“Dear x,
Please accept this letter as my official notice of resignation. I have decided to accept another opportunity from another organisation and will start with them in four weeks. It is my intention to work as professionally with you and my team members in order to make the transition as smooth as possible. I would appreciate your thoughts on how best to achieve this smooth transition.”
The Meeting
Once the letter has been received, telephone your line manager for a brief meeting (no more than ten minutes) and ensure that you set the agenda. This is the time when you inform your employer of your reasons for your decision. Your single objective of this meeting should be a smooth transition. Do not be apologetic and make sure that your points are clear. Your employer will want to know more details at this point but it’s your prerogative to answer when you feel the time is right. Depending on the relationship with your line manager, you may feel comfortable being more open and honest.
Emotional Control
The balance of the relationship you have with your employer changes once you resign. This can be a very difficult situation so you must ensure that you keep your emotions out of the equation.
What To Expect From Your Line Manager
Some of you will agonise over this meeting, others will move through it with ease. In either case you need to be prepared. Employers have only a few possible reactions to your resignation:
1. “Leave immediately!”
2. “I can’t believe you’re doing this!”
3. “I understand completely and I accept your resignation and want to work out a smooth transition.”
Any reasonable employer will react along the lines of “3” – anything else will be unfortunate for you but you must manage the situation. You’re in control of your career and you are making this move because the time is right for you.
