How to Write the Perfect Letter of Resignation – Sample Resignation Letter

So you’re thinking about quitting your job because it’s not the right fit anymore. Or maybe you’ve already accepted a new job offer, and you’re wondering how to tell your current employer without burning any bridges.

If this sounds like you, read on to learn how to write the perfect letter of resignation. And, at the end, I have a special bonus just for you.

Resignation Letter Template

Get your letter of resignation just right.  Here’s a free downloadable template you can grab TODAY and customize to leave your job with class!

Before we jump in to how to write the perfect letter of resignation, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First

It’s important to remember that writing a proper letter of resignation is good karma. Have you heard the saying, “What goes around comes around?”

A well-written letter of resignation shows that you are of good character and keeps your reputation intact. It also shows that you are respectful and holds you in good standing in case you need to use your current employer as a reference for a new position later on.

Second

Your letter of resignation can be short and brief. You don’t need to go into detail about why you are leaving. You want your letter to be to the point.

Third

It is best practice for you to print out your letter and resign in person. However, if circumstances permit you from resigning in person, you can type your resignation in an email or attach it as separate document to an email.

So let’s jump in to how to write the perfect resignation letter.

Tip #1 – Customize Your Letter

Address the letter to your supervisor or manager. An opening like “Dear John Doe,” or “Dear Sally Sue,” is friendly and informal.

If your letter is going directly to the Human Resource Department, address the human resource manager or director by name.

Tip #2 – State Your Purpose and the Date

Begin the letter by explaining the intention of your resignation and your last day of employment. This will make it crystal clear to your supervisor or manager that you are indeed resigning from your position and when they can expect your departure.

Use a statement like:

Please accept this letter of resignation for my position as [position title here]. My last day with [company name here] will be [date here].

Tip #3 – Explain Your Reasoning

In the simplest terms possible, state why you are leaving. Some common reasons include a new career opportunity, family, health, or maybe just that the current position is not the right fit anymore.

Use a statement like:

I recently received an offer from another organization where I can further pursue my career goals. The growth opportunities available in this new position align perfectly with my talents and aspirations.

Explain your reasoning as positively and pleasantly as possible. This is not the time to complain or express your dissatisfaction.

I know how hard it can be to remain upbeat, especially if you are resigning because you had a supervisor that was impossible to work with, or if the company culture doesn’t align with your values anymore.

It’s important to leave those negative, unpleasant details out of your letter. Remember you want to exist with grace and ease.

Tip #4 – Express Your Gratitude

Provide a brief thank-you that demonstrates your gratitude for the position and for the career opportunities you had while working there.

This will be much appreciated by your current employer and increases the likelihood that they will give a you a positive reference or recommendation later on.

You could say something like…

Thank you for allowing me to grow professionally in my role. I appreciate the support and guidance I received and the knowledge I gained while working with your company. I look forward to our continued business relationship and to hearing about the successes of my colleagues.

Tip #5: Offer a Transition

If you can, provide an option for some type of transition, such as helping to train a replacement. This will give both you and your employer greater closure and a better sense of respect for one another.

You can say something like…

If there is anything I can do to make my departure a seamless process, please let me know. I am happy to train a replacement if needed. Best wishes to you and to my co-workers.

Bonus Tips

Just for you, here are a couple of bonus tips to help you leave your job with grace.

Bonus Tip #1

Don’t be tempted by a counter offer. Your employer may be sad to see you go, but if you are certain you want to leave, be firm about it.

Bonus Tip #2

Try to give at least 2 weeks’ notice. This is courteous to your employer and can really help to not burn bridges with them.

Resignation Letter Template

Get your resignation just right. Here’s a free downloadable template you can grab TODAY and customize to leave your job with class!