ENSURE A SMOOTH FINISH
How to leave any job on a positive note
WHEN a new year leads to a new job, a resignation letter for the current job inevitably needs to follow. Luminary Partners QLD managing director Russell Fairbanks says workers will be remembered by how their employment ends.
Even after they have told their boss the bad news, they still will need to put the resignation into writing, he says.
STATE THE BASICS
“This is a formal letter, so you need to outline some key details,” he says. “Start with the date you’re handing it in – the letter can act as evidence of how much notice you’ve given.
“State that you’re resigning. If you want to, you can simply and professionally say why – for example, to explore a new opportunity – but you don’t have to do this.”
Check the employment contract about the notice required, and include that date on this letter.
BE POSITIVE
Acknowledge the opportunities or experience gained from the time in the role.
“Ask yourself, ‘What did I take away from this job’?” Fairbanks says.
“This doesn’t need to be emotional – just a simple and genuine few words will do.”
DON’T BE NEGATIVE
Even if there were no positives, do not be negative.
“It’s not the space to complain or point out failures,” he says.
“If you’re tempted to be critical, just remember you could regret it later – resignation letters stay on record.
“If it’s in writing, you can’t take it back.”
If there is a grievance the employee wants to provide feedback about, they should request a verbal exit interview with a human resources representative or their manager.
SAY ‘THANKS’
Fairbanks says most workers would have gained useful skills or had a chance to gain experience in their role, and their employer may have invested time or effort into training them. An acknowledgment of that in a few words can be a nice touch.
BUILD RELATIONSHIPS
Never burn your bridges, Fairbanks says.
The employer or a former colleague may need to act as a reference now or in future.
State willingness to complete current tasks and projects, offer to help train the replacement or provide personal contact details in case the company needs to make contact in future.
Finish by saying thanks again and signing off with “Yours sincerely”. FOR RESIGNATION LETTER TEMPLATES OR TO VIEW THIS ARTICLE IN FULL, VISIT SEEK CAREER ADVICE