How to Write an Effective Letter of Resignation
Are you unhappy with your current place of employment? If you have been looking for a job with a higher salary or better benefits and you’ve found what you’re looking for, then you’ll need to quit your current work in a professional manner.
Writing an effective letter of resignation may be the right way to go. However, you may not know how to put together a well-crafted resignation letter. As such, we have outlined below the essential strategies you can take to develop the best possible letter of resignation. Keep reading to learn all about it!
Review Your Contract and/or Company Policy
Before you even start crafting your letter of resignation, you will need to review your contract to determine what requirements are in place. Check the contract for the minimum notice period you can take.
Check the company policy to determine any benefits you have upon leaving as well as your leaving salary. Figure out your pension plan and transition to a different health insurance plan. Find out how you can obtain any unused sick days or vacation days.
You might also want to check the local labor laws in your region and/or state as well as United States labor laws.
The Key Topics to Include in a Resignation Letter
The main topics you will need to incorporate into your resignation letter are:
● Your full name and contact information
● The date
● Your employer’s contact information
● A subject line
● Salutation and the name of your manager
● The first paragraph addresses the fact that you are resigning and the last day you’ll work
● The second paragraph expresses regret with the reason you’re leaving
● The third paragraph discusses offering to help with the transition
● The fourth paragraph outlines your gratitude and provides best wishes to your employer
● The fifth paragraph addresses the best way to contact you going forward
● Closing
● Your signature
● Your full name
● CC to human resources
Essential Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter
What the Body of the Resignation Letter Needs to Cover There are several subjects to cover in the body of your resignation letter. First, apologize for the short notice and express regret. Next, you’ll need to offer assistance in terms of the transition, as your departure will likely put a strain on the company.
Lastly, you should thank your employer for the opportunity to work there and for the knowledge they instilled in you.
What to Avoid in Your Letter of Resignation
According to Forbes, there are numerous things you should avoid mentioning in your resignation letter, such as:
● The name of the company that you will be working for shortly
● Your thoughts about the employer, especially if they are negative
● Unnecessary details
● Confidential information
● Jokes or humor
● Promises you can’t keep
Steps to Take After Handing in Your Letter of Resignation
Once you have handed in your resignation letter, you may need to speak to human resources about some final details. In addition, you should send out a leaving email to all of your colleagues to bid farewell.
If you are close with your colleagues, you can also consider planning a farewell party or a dinner out.
Wrap Up
Now that you’ve read through this guide, you should have a much better idea about crafting the right resignation letter and what steps to take after you resign. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying starting a new job, meeting new people, and succeeding in innovative projects.