Your decision is made: you want to leave your current company and explore new professional horizons. As soon as you are certain about your choice, it is important to inform your employer so they can start searching for your replacement and your notice period can officially begin.
Here is a resignation letter template you can copy, paste, and customize to fit your context, along with tips for managing your resignation professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I send my resignation letter?
You should send your resignation letter as soon as your final decision has been made, ensuring you respect the notice period detailed in your employment contract (usually a few weeks to a month).
Make sure your choice is definitive: you won’t be able to reverse your decision once the letter has been sent. It is also essential to honor your notice period and avoid leaving the company abruptly, as this helps maintain a good relationship with your employer and colleagues.
What should my resignation letter include?
Here are the essential elements to include in your resignation letter:
- The subject line clearly stating your decision to resign;
- The date of the day;
- Your contact information (postal and email addresses);
- The company’s contact information and the name of your point of contact;
- Your job title and you starting date;
- Notification of your resignation;
- The effective resignation date that takes your notice period into account;
- (Optional) Reasons for your resignation, if appropriate;
- Personalized thanks addressed to your employer;
- Formal and polite closing remarks;
- Your full name and signature.
Remember to remain polite and maintain a professional tone throughout the letter. If possible, explain your reasons for leaving and personalize your letter to reflect your journey within the company. This will help you end the professional relationship on a positive note.
How can I maintain positive professional relationships when resigning?
Transparency is key during the resignation process. Don’t hesitate to share your feedback with your employer – it can help improve the employee experience within the organization and contribute to a smoother transition. Participating in an exit interview is also a great opportunity to discuss your experience.
Stay polite throughout the communication process, even if your professional relationship wasn’t ideal. If you have nothing positive to share about your employer, it’s better to avoid detailing the reasons for your departure to avoid leaving a negative impression on former colleagues.
On the other hand, if your experience was positive, take the time to highlight what you gained from the company and your coworkers. Leaving on good terms is always preferable and helps maintain relationships that might open doors to future opportunities!
Need a resignation letter template for inspiration?
Don’t forget to customize your letter to fit your situation!
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