How To Manage Your Resignation

Be sure to resign on good terms and in a professional and diplomatic way.  Very shortly, your boss will be approached for a reference so resigning in the right way can strengthen your reputation as being trustworthy, considerate and professional.  As with every other step in your job search, preparation is important.

Preparation

Wait until you have received your new job offer in writing before resigning. Nowadays, an emailed offer letter will suffice.

List your reasons for wanting to leave and make them as positive as possible. Preparation will help you resign confidently.  Leaving for a new and different experience is perfectly valid.

The Resignation Meeting

  • Don’t put it off.  Approach your boss as soon as possible after you get your job offer.
  • Some bosses take a resignation positively. Many themselves will have made a move in the past to advance their career and will understand your reasoning.
  • Others may not, so be prepared for a reaction. Your decision may come as a surprise and may result in an emotional response.
  • Stick to your prepared thoughts and emphasise the positives.  Don’t dwell on negative reasons, as you never know when your paths might cross again.
  • Agree a leaving date and finish the meeting on a positive note. Stress that you will be thoroughly professional during your notice period and cooperate with any handover
  • Recommend some good Recruitment Consultants to help recruit your replacement.

Call your Recruitment Consultant after the meeting.  Your new employer will want to know that you have safely resigned.  It is the first action you will take in relation to your new job with them.

The Resignation Letter

Keep it short and positive and thank your employer for the opportunities they have given you.

The Challenge of the Counter Offer

In some instances, your boss will make a counter-offer. You need to set your boundaries and remember that this is a business decision, so try to look at it objectively without emotion.
Ask yourself some important questions:

  • What is the best decision for your career?
  • Has anything changed?
  • Will more money or the promise of a promotion really change things?
  • Will it just be a quick fix?
  • Will you have to resign every time you feel you deserve a pay rise or a promotion?
  • Will you be looking for a new opportunity again in six months?

Consider your answers carefully and then make a final decision on what your next step will be. Make sure this is done promptly the offer is made so that both your current employer and potential new employer are not left feeling like they have been messed about – remain professional throughout.