The way in which you leave your job can impact your future employment. For this reason, it is important to follow proper resignation etiquette when you are resigning from a job. Doing so will allow you to maintain a positive and professional relationship with your former employer and this can have an effect on your references and business relationships moving forward. If you are planning to turn in your letter of resignation, consider the following tips for moving on with class.
Give Plenty of Notice
It is proper etiquette to give at least two weeks notice when resigning from a job. This gives your employer time to figure out a temporary solution for your position and this will also sit much better with your current employer as opposed to you quitting on the spot.
Keep Your Letter Professional
It’s always a good idea to write a formal resignation letter for your employment file. However, you do not want to include negative reasons for leaving. Never complain about the job or mention that you were unhappy. Simply state that you are leaving, the date of your last day, and thank the employer for the opportunity to work there. How you write your letter is important because it can impact whether or not you stay on good terms with your employer. Even if you hated the job, it’s best to leave on a positive note so as not to hinder future employment opportunities.
Be Grateful and Polite
Even if you feel like you were treated unfairly and you hated your boss, never leave on a bad note. You never know when your paths might cross later in life so it’s best not to burn bridges. You always want to leave your employer with a positive feeling about how you present yourself.
Always Tell Your Manager First
It’s good resignation etiquette to tell your manager before you tell your co-workers. You never know if the word might get out and you don’t want the company to discover that you are leaving from someone else.
Ask for a Reference
Ask your boss and colleagues if they would be willing to give you a reference. If you leave on a positive note, they should have no problem writing a recommendation for you and this can help you in your future endeavors.
Offer to Help if Possible
If it’s feasible, offer to help during the transition. You could help wrap up any projects or tasks that you were working on and make sure you aren’t leaving your boss with a mess. You might even have a recommendation for someone who could take your place. They may not take you up on your offer but at least it will be appreciated.