How to Write the Best Letter of Resignation

When I quit my last full-time job, I was an absolute mess. Honestly, that’s nice – I was nervous and spent weeks working up the courage to tell my boss I was jumping ship. And when I finally did, I wasn’t ready to do it (many pep talks in front of the bathroom mirror notwithstanding!).

I’ve always heard that I was supposed to draft a formal letter of resignation. So, I quickly googled a form, filled in my details, and then practically tossed it at my boss while doing my best to avoid direct eye contact. be seen? I told you I was a mess.

But, in retrospect, I wish I had put more thought, time, and effort into this letter of resignation. Why? Well, according to Daily business news86% of HR managers report that the way employees leave a job affects at least some degree their future career opportunities.

So, needless to say, I wish I’d chilled out, rolled up my sleeves, and put more grease into that resignation letter (but, no, I was too busy eating animal crackers).

I don’t want you to make the same mistake I did, so let’s take a look at everything you need to know to write the best resignation letter. Because if you’re leaving your job, you’d better make a great impression, not just a pathetic trail of animal cookie crumbs.

1. Start with the nuts and bolts

The beginning of your letter is always the hardest part. And while you might be tempted to start with a startling and poignant introduction about how your work experience has affected you both professionally and personally, it’s best to stay away from the skits and stick to the basics.

What are the basics exactly? You should include the position you are resigning from and your expected last employment date. That’s it, my friends.

What does this look like:

my dear [Boss’ Name],

Please consider this letter as my official resignation from my position [Current Title] with [Company Name]. My last date at work with [Company Name] it will be [Date].

2. Talk about the transition

Then, it’s time to talk briefly about how you’ll help make this transition a smooth one. Whether you plan to create a manual of some sort for your replacement or are willing to help train your replacement, you’ll need to explain these measures here.

Don’t feel like you need to go any further with a ridiculously long list of all the good deeds you plan to complete. Just touch a few things you’ll do to make this process a little easier, and he’ll be ready to go.

What does this look like:

In these final weeks, I will take the time to work on writing some specific instructions and will leave any existing records to my replacement to make this transition a smoother one. In addition, I am more than willing to assist with any coaching duties during my final weeks in this position.

3. Leave on good terms

Finally, it’s time to express your sincere gratitude for the opportunity your employer has offered you – yes, even if you absolutely hate your job.

Again, you don’t have to be over the top here (this isn’t your Oscar acceptance speech, after all). However, reserving a few lines to thank your employer is important for leaving things in good shape. You don’t want to burn any bridges!

What does this look like:

I want to sincerely thank you for this opportunity [Company Name]. I have very much enjoyed my time as an employee here, and it has been a pleasure working with you and [Department] a team. I sure hope our paths cross again.

sincerely,

[Your Name]

Put it all together—including the date you sent the letter at the top and your signature at the bottom—and the perfect resignation letter is complete.

be seen? I told you it doesn’t have to be very long or complicated. In fact, the simpler and more concise you can keep things, the better.

And before you ask: No, you absolutely do not need to include the reason for leaving the position in your resignation letter. It is likely that this is something you will discuss with your boss personally, and even if you don’t, there is no need to include it in your formal letter.

So, there you have it! Three essential components of a letter of resignation. Fill in the blanks and you’ll be able to say goodbye to your current job in a professional, polished, and respectful manner.

By Kat Bogard