Letter of resignation: how and why you should do it

Nearly four million people in the United States quit their jobs in April 2021, the highest number ever recorded, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. And it is increasingly common to leave work in search of better opportunities. In fact, according to a global survey by Microsoft, almost four out of ten workers are convinced to change jobs.

Are you in the same situation? Do not worry. Luckily, today, there is a much wider range of possibilities thanks to the wide variety of training opportunities and new professions that exist. However, when you leave a place where you have dedicated time, and effort, and built professional bonds, it is always convenient to do it in the best possible way.

Why should you write a good letter of resignation?

A letter of resignation formally declares an employee’s decision to terminate their employment with the organization. It has legal consequences and should therefore have a proper format.

The letter is expected to provide all the necessary information for the HR department to complete the required processes. This includes the structure of the letter that is suitable for the occasion.

Your resignation letter can impact the way you are perceived in the future. Instead of closing doors, it can keep them open for potential connections and opportunities.

Writing a professional resignation letter is essential for future connections and recommendations. Employers frequently request references from prior employment, so leaving a positive impression is crucial.

Things to keep in mind when writing your resignation letter

In addition to the legal data, you must communicate, take the opportunity to write an acknowledgment to the company, thank the opportunity provided, and express appreciation for the place in question or what you have learned working there.

On the contrary, it is a perfect space to include information about your role during the transition process of the position. In this sense, offer your help to facilitate change.

On the other hand, as for the date of delivery of the letter of resignation, although the deadlines for submitting it depend on the personal situation, the legislation of each country, and the employment contract, it is usually recommended to send it at least, two weeks before definitively changing jobs.

How to write your resignation letter

While it is a task that may seem overwhelming, the truth is that writing a letter of resignation is quite simple. Ideally, its extension is not more than one page and respects a basic scheme that ensures you do not omit anything important. To do this, your letter of resignation should consist of about three paragraphs and have the following structure:

  • Date and greeting: in the first part, you must put your contact information, the date you are writing the letter of resignation, and to whom it is addressed.
  • First paragraph: The introduction should be brief and concise. Put the name of the position and indicate why you are leaving, as well as the date on which you will do it.

For example: “I regret to inform you that, after having been part of this company for more than five years, I leave my position as Account Executive as of April 30, 2023.”

  • Gratitude: soften the news by thanking the opportunity received and what has been learned within the company. Take your time to detail everything he has given you, but do not exaggerate. Speak honestly.

For example: “First of all, I appreciate the opportunity offered shortly after completing my undergraduate studies, despite the little experience I had in the sector. I’ve learned a lot about… in my time at this company.”  

 

Do not stop writing your letter of resignation.

 

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