YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

I AM PLANNING TO RESIGN. WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO NOT BURN ANY BRIDGES?

DARREN BUCHANAN MANAGING DIRECTOR, HAYS QUEENSLAND

Let’s start with your resignation letter. How you write it depends on the circumstances of your departure, but it should include your notice of termination of employment, when this is effective from and your signature. If you are leaving on good terms, add an extra sentence or two thanking your boss for the opportunities you’ve been given. If not, do not go into details. It can help to rehearse your reasons for leaving before meeting with your manager. If there’s likely to be a handover period to a colleague or new person, reassure your boss you’ll convey all essential information.

SINEAD HOURIGAN BRISBANE DIRECTOR, ROBERT WALTERS

In a market as relatively contained as Queensland, leaving an employer without burning bridges is critical. Irrespective of your reasons for moving on, try and focus on the positives and be clear and non-emotive when explaining your reasons. Always conduct your conversation in a professional way. Don’t avoid the conversation and choose to resign via text or email. Always thank your employer for the opportunity to work there. It is also really important to work out your notice period (should you be required to) in a positive and productive way.

JULIE BARR SENIOR EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT, McARTHUR

There is definitely a right way to resign, no matter what the circumstances – even when you hate your job or the people you work with. It demonstrates maturity and you never know when you might meet a former colleague at another organisation in the future. Keep it professional, write a formal resignation letter and provide the required amount of notice to allow them to recruit a replacement or have a handover. Do not slack off – continue to contribute and provide feedback about your time with the organisation either formally through an exit interview or informally over a coffee.

DR NERIDA HILLBERG DIRECTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY, FERRIS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS

I am a strong advocate for a mental health break between jobs. I advise resigning as soon as you have signed your new contract and have a start date. Ensure that you follow resignation etiquette. Never tell your colleagues first. Make an appointment with your boss to advise them in person. Always follow this up in writing, ensuring an appropriate notice period. Offer to provide input/advice/ training/guidance for your replacement. Thank your boss for the opportunity they gave you.