The delicate art of saying goodbye
As many regular readers of this column will recognise, I lament at the average person’s ability to put together a written piece of communication that is clear and professional. A perfect example of this is the dreaded resignation letter.
Many people choose to go with the classic “I can’t wait to get out of here – this is when I am leaving you” approach. However, if done well, this letter can be a really positive way to move on to your next employer. Rules for a resignation letter
Do not make any negative statements about your boss or colleagues, or offer ways for the company to ‘improve’ (in your opinion). If you really want to help your former employer get better at what they do, leave this for the exit interview and provide firm data and positive suggestions to improve the business.
Clearly state the date you intend to finish and make sure it is the length of time required in your employment contract.
If you are able, offer to be available to help after you finish. Indicate how the employer can contact you after you have gone, for those ‘where did you put the blue folder?’ type questions.
Let them know the positive points of your time with them. For example, talk about the wonderful learning opportunities you had, or the great people you worked alongside. A little sprinkling of ‘how your time there provided a valuable stepping-stone in your career’ won’t go astray either.
No matter how negative, worn out or just keen to move on you are, try to make the letter sound sincere, not sarcastic. These are people who know you and will most likely have noticed any decline in motivation and enthusiasm toward the company/ your job.
Check your spelling and grammar (always at all time for everything). You don’t want the enduring memory of your former manager to be that you spelt ‘Resignation’ wrong…
Give your resignation letter to your direct manager personally where possible. These days it’s too easy to break up with someone via text or social media, so fronting up with a formal letter outlining your break-up with your employer shows a unique brand of courage and respect. Do not leave it on their desk as it may be overlooked or fall into the wrong hands. Then when you come to leave there may be complications as no one will know anything about it.
Always, always remain professional and respectful. Remember that these people have been paying you after all for the last few years…
Never burn your bridges… While it may be tempting to use your letter (and the notice period) as an opportunity to tell all and sundry about all the things that are wrong with the business, you will only sew discontent with your (soon to be former) manager. Remember to never burn your bridges, as you will never know when you need to cross them again…