Handing in your notice: how to resign from your job in the right way

 

Whether you are sadly stepping away from a job you have loved, or are skipping delightedly away from the job from hell, there is a certain etiquette around how to hand in your notice. Regardless of the reasons for you leaving, it pays to resign in the right way- it’s a small world remember, and things can come back to bite you in the bottom if not handled appropriately!

 

When should I hand in my notice?

 

Ideally, you will have your next job lined up and ready to go before handing your notice into your current workplace, although everyone’s circumstances are different. Be sure to check the notice period in your contract before committing to your new employer. You are contractually obligated to work for the entirety of your notice period so do factor this in.

As soon as you feel ready, you should then begin the process of handing in your notice.

 

Who do I hand my notice in to?

 

Your Manager is typically the person to whom you should give notice. Ideally, ask to meet/speak to them in person (or video call if you are a remote worker). This is the most polite and professional courtesy that you can offer. (Do not speak to any of your colleagues/coworkers about your resignation before speaking to your manager. Gossip gets around fast, and the last thing you want is for your Manager to find out the news from anyone other than you!)

Take your letter of resignation along to the meeting, as they will also require this as written evidence of your notice period starting.

Try and keep the meeting as amicable and polite as possible (Remember- you’ve still got to work your notice period! Don’t make it awkward for yourself). Unless directly asked, now isn’t the time to suddenly vent all your frustrations about the company/business. Often, you will be offered an exit interview which is more for the purpose of finding out why you are leaving/what they could do to improve.

How do I write my letter of resignation?

 

The key information you need in your letter is:

• The date
• Your name (and signature)
• The job title that you are resigning from
• The name of your Manager
• The day that you have calculated to be the last date of your employment (they will obviously check this so don’t be cheeky!)

 

It doesn’t have to be a novel- short and sweet is completely fine. As long as it has the basics (above), then it is perfectly acceptable. If you are struggling you can find resignation letter templates online from organisations such as Indeed and Reed.

 

Any other handy tips?

 

• When you speak to your Manager to hand in your resignation, ask them for a reference. This is often required for future job applications.
• If appropriate, ask if there is any way in which you can facilitate the transition of you leaving/your replacement starting. You might be able to help with the handover/training period.
• Prepare for a counter-offer…. your current employer might offer you something to encourage you to stay. This could be a better salary; better hours; more holiday etc. Be ready for this, and know what you are prepared (or not prepared!) to accept. Don’t let yourself be lured back if you think you are going to regret it.
• Keep it friendly. Honestly, it’s never sensible to burn bridges. Try and keep it amicable and leave on good terms. You never know who you might have to work with in the future, so best not to upset the applecart upon your departure (as much as you might be tempted to!).

 

There is a lot to consider above and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, why not reach out to us and see how we can support you with your job search.

We are ready to help on 01823 429566.