Many people face the challenge of resigning from their job, unsure of how to do it correctly and in the least painful way. Some employees experience a reverent fear of their employers, who, for some reason, seem to hold special rights in their eyes. Others, on the contrary, think only of their immediate interests, disregarding the company’s needs.
In this article, you will receive a clear and detailed guide on how to resign from your job, taking into account the main nuances and potential risks regarding your reputation and future employment opportunities.
Making the Decision to Leave
Your decision to leave the company should be calm and thoroughly considered. No spontaneity or emotional decisions driven by “righteous” indignation.
Preparing for Resignation
1. Identify Your Reasons and Goals for Resignation
Why do you want to quit?
For example, you may have researched salary benchmarks and found that you are underpaid to the extent that no requests to management or scheduled salary increases can change the situation. Overall, the reason should be significant enough.
What will your next steps be after resigning?
For instance, you might want to take a vacation to finally rest from the endless grind of work. While this plan sounds appealing, is it wise? Upon returning home, you may find that you have spent more than expected and have little money left, making it hard to focus on job hunting.
Therefore, it is much wiser to continue working while simultaneously exploring new options. Start your job search by analyzing your skills and desired positions, studying the job market. Then, prepare a basic version of your resume and cover letter. Only after this should you begin applying for jobs and reaching out to employers.
2. Plan the Resignation Process
Determine the dates for submitting your resignation letter and your final working day, in accordance with labor laws and your employment contract (how long you have to work before you are “free” upon submitting the resignation letter).
Try to choose a suitable moment to discuss your decision with your immediate supervisor and submit your resignation letter. Base your decision on the current workload, any urgent projects, and commitments, so it doesn’t appear to your employer that you are leaving at the worst possible time.
Decide how you will justify your reason for resigning, ensuring it does not come across as a complaint. Have a plan in case your boss tries to persuade you to stay. Consider what you need to do to complete your tasks and train your successor. If there isn’t one, perhaps think about whether there’s a suitable candidate in mind. Your supervisor will likely appreciate such foresight and concern for the company’s interests.
3. Writing the Resignation Letter
Draft your resignation letter, including all essential details: the date of resignation, your willingness to hand over your duties or train your successor.
The Resignation Process
1. Meeting with Your Supervisor
According to your plan, inform your boss of your reasons for leaving and discuss the handover of duties, settling all matters related to your employment contract and legislation, and any compensation and payments due. Submit your resignation letter. Ask for a letter of reference. It’s great if you can convince your boss to allow you to attend job interviews. Proceed according to your plan based on your employer’s reaction.
If you have any job interviews during this time, remember to inform potential employers of your current job obligations to avoid pressure to start the new job sooner.
2. Completing Work and Handover
According to the agreement reached with your supervisor, complete your work tasks, conduct training for your successor (if agreed), and hand over your duties. If you promised to find a new employee first, start that search promptly.
3. Final Procedures
Complete and sign the final documents. Return the keys to your office and any corporate tools (phone, laptop, etc.) and other valuables that were entrusted to you.
After Resignation
1. Receiving All Due Payments
Ensure that all due payments, such as salary, bonuses, and compensations, are credited to your bank account within the agreed timeframe. I mention this because I once had a situation where a year-end bonus from a previous employer “melted” on my account for several years, and I had no idea about that.
2. Maintaining Good Relationships
During the resignation process, avoid conflicts with management and colleagues. Say goodbye to your coworkers in a friendly manner. If customary, you might bring a cake to the office or even go out to dinner with close colleagues. It’s also a good idea to keep in touch with them periodically, sharing news and professional advice.
Even if the resignation occurred in a heated atmosphere and you feel resentment towards the company, I still advise against seeking revenge on your former employer. It’s also better to refrain from negative comments and criticism of the company on social media, professional platforms, or during job interviews.
Resigning from a job is not always a simple process, but you can make it as easy as possible. In any case, I wish you a positive mindset and optimism, even if the resignation was challenging.
