Resignation Letter

Updated March 4, 2023

What is a Resignation Letter?

Leaving a job can be a bittersweet moment. While there is the thrill of new opportunities and personal growth, it can be challenging to bid farewell to familiar routines and colleagues who have become like family. However, writing a resignation letter can make the process smoother and less stressful. A resignation letter is an official procedure to inform the organization of your plan to leave the current role. 

A well-written resignation email reflects your professionalism and leaves a good impression, making your transition to your next career move smoother and more seamless.

To help you with the same, we have provided various templates of resignation letters for different situations below.

Key Highlights

• Writing a resignation letter is an essential part of quitting a job.
• Depending on the situation or company policies, there are different types of emails, such as notice-specifying, immediate, or simple ones.
• In the letter, it is crucial to include clear information about your intention to resign, the notice period, and a brief expression of gratitude to the company.
• Avoid any negative comments, inappropriate language, or bragging about your new position in the resignation email.

Resignation Letter Examples

Let’s look at the following examples of resignation letters to better understand before proceeding into its details.

Example #1 A Simple Resignation Letter

A simple resignation letter briefly states that you will be leaving your post and does not include many details about the course of your resignation. Here is an illustration of the same.

Example #2 A Resignation Letter With Two Weeks Notice

Sending your resignation email two weeks before your last day at the office gives management ample notice to consider your request and find a replacement. Here’s an example of what your resignation email could look like:

Example #3 A Letter Of Immediate Resignation

If you need to resign immediately due to an emergency, you can send a letter of immediate resignation. Remember that most workplaces have strict policies about resigning without notice, so you must have a compelling reason for doing so. Here’s an example of what a short resignation email might look like:

Resignation Letter Template

A resignation letter template is a document that provides the proper format and outline for writing your resignation letter. It provides a basic outline that you can modify to suit your specific situation. By using a template, you can ensure that your resignation letter is clear, concise, and professional.

Here’s an example of a simple resignation letter template:

How to Write a Resignation Letter?

Writing a resignation letter may seem daunting, but it’s necessary when leaving a job. Follow these steps to write a great resignation email:

1. Use a Business Format
Start your letter with the employer’s name, business address, and date. Make sure to use appropriate spacing and margins.

2. State Your Intent
In the first paragraph, clearly state that you plan to resign. Keep your tone formal and straightforward. Avoid implying that you might stay if offered more money or benefits.

3. Give Your Last Day
Include the date of your last day of work. This helps your employer prepare for your departure and find a replacement if necessary.

4. Show Gratitude
Thank your employer for the opportunities they gave you and the support they provided. Share positive memories and acknowledge the company’s role in your growth.

5. Wrap Up
Conclude your letter with a friendly tone, inviting your employer to contact you for help with the transition. Leave your personal contact information and sign off with “Regards” or “Sincerely.”
Remember, it is a professional document, so keep your language formal and polite.

What Should you Include in your Resignation Letter?

There are a few things you should make sure to include in a letter. They are as follows:

 

1. State Your Intentions
Clearly state in the letter that you are resigning from your current position. This lets the employer know that you are serious about leaving.

2. Notice Period
Check the company’s policy before writing the letter to know how much notice period is required. Provide the required notice period or more to give your employer enough time to find a replacement.

3. Offer Transition Assistance
Offer to help with the transition by providing any necessary information, training, or documentation to make the process smoother for your employer and colleagues.

4. Briefly Explain Your Reasons
It is courteous to briefly explain why you are leaving the job, whether due to personal reasons, a new opportunity, or a career change. Keep it simple and professional.

5. Ask Questions (Optional)
If you have any questions about your final paycheck or other benefits, you can include them in the letter. You can also request an exit interview if necessary.

What Shouldn’t you Include in your Resignation Letter?

When drafting a resignation letter, it is crucial to avoid including certain details. These are the things you should leave out:

 

1. Negative Comments
Even if you disagree with some managers in the office, avoid criticizing them in your letter. Keeping a professional tone is important to prevent negative consequences such as poor reference. It is best to maintain a neutral and courteous tone.

2. Overly Positive Language
Using excessively flattering language about the company after expressing your dissatisfaction can be interpreted as insincere or disrespectful.

3. Criticism of Coworkers
Avoid being negative or critical towards coworkers in your letter or resignation email. It is better to express your thoughts in private or during exit interviews.

4. Inappropriate Language
Ensure that your letter is respectful and avoid using offensive language, regardless of your reasons for leaving. Write your letter while in a positive state of mind to avoid getting overly emotional.

5. Boasting about Your New Job
Refrain from mentioning your new position or how happy you are to leave in your letter. Avoid stating details such as salary or benefits. If there is a counteroffer from your company, it is better to discuss it in person.

Final Thoughts

When leaving a job, it can be tough. You put in a lot of effort over the years, so don’t damage your reputation now. Instead, depart on good terms with minimal fuss. To do this, simply write a proper resignation letter.
Your work life is about to enter a new phase, so get ready and start drafting your resignation email!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should a resignation letter include?
When drafting a letter, include certain elements to ensure it is professional and effective. These elements include:

1. Date: Begin your letter with the date you are submitting it.
2. Recipient: Address your letter to the appropriate person, usually your supervisor or manager.
3. A resignation statement: Clearly state that you are resigning from your position, including the effective date and your reason for leaving (if desired).
4. A statement of gratitude: Express appreciation for the opportunities you had while working for the company and the skills you acquired while on the job.
5. Your final day of work: Provide the date of your last day. It should align with the notice period specified in your employment contract or company policy.
6. Contact information: Include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address, so your employer can reach you if needed.

Is the resignation letter to HR or the boss?
Your manager is the person you have been directly reporting to, and they will be responsible for managing your departure from the company. Therefore, addressing your resignation email to your immediate supervisor or manager rather than the HR department is important.

If you are still determining who to address the letter to, you can check your employment contract or company policy or speak to a member of the HR department for guidance.

What happens if a resignation gets rejected?
Resigning from a job can be emotional; handle it professionally to maintain a positive relationship with your employer. Be clear and respectful in communicating your intentions. If your resignation gets rejected, talk to your supervisor or manager to understand why. Your employer may need you to continue working on important projects or may offer incentives to retain you.

Recommended Articles

We hope that this EDUCBA information on Resignation Letter was beneficial to you. For further guidance on Human Resource-related topics, EDUCBA recommends these articles:

1. Best tips to Write A Professional Resignation Letter Content
2. 10 Best Measures to follow during the time of Resigning
3. Quit a Job in Style
4. Top 10 Commandments Of Hunting Jobs For A Successful Career