How and when to resign
We know that resigning can feel daunting and scary, no matter how senior your position may be. But remember, people resign every day and so you are not alone. Here’s some key tips to help you through the process.
Prepare & protect yourself
Protect yourself – Read your contract and be sure of what your legal obligations are – including notice period and non-compete clauses
Approach with conviction – Be sure, and be prepared. Make sure you resign to your manager at a time when you are not overly emotional or unprepared to avoid any awkward moments
The letter – To formalise the process, when you resign to your boss be sure to have it in writing. There are plenty of templates on the web for you to use if you’re struggling to find the words
The counter offer – Your employer may offer a counter offer to keep you. Be sure to have your response ready and remember that is okay to sometimes take a day to think it over.
Do not be negative – When talking about your resignation with co-workers in the office, always emphasise the positive and talk about how the company has benefited you, even though it’s time to move on. It is important to leave on good terms and leave a good lasting impression
Don’t brag – You may have just landed the biggest, brightest and best job of all time – but be humble. It’s the polite, and right, thing to do
Be helpful – If you are able to offer to help during the transition – that’s great. Remember impressions last long after you have departed
Keep in touch – Do not burn bridges. You never know who knows who and where you’ll end up – so be a good human
The way in which you resign from a job can have a lasting impact on your career
Remember, the business world can be surprisingly small, so even if your time with a particular employer has not been positive, it is crucial to remain professional – always. Even after you have left.