New year, new you, new career?
Whether you’ve chosen to launch your own business, step into a higher-level role with a new organization, or align your career with your values to build your legacy, at some point along the way you’ll likely need to write a resignation letter. Crafting a professional resignation letter helps ensure a smooth transition and maintain positive connections with your soon-to-be-former colleagues for the company’s continued success. If you’re about to leave your job and are juggling a lot of to-dos during this time of transition, let me help by walking you through the key elements of writing an effective resignation letter, one that gets the job done and reflects gratitude and professionalism.
How to Write a Resignation Letter: Your Comprehensive Guide
Expressing Gratitude for Opportunities:
- Begin your letter by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work with your current company.. Acknowledge the valuable experiences and lessons you’ve gained during your time with the organization.
- Example: “I am grateful for the opportunities for growth and development that [Company Name] has offered me during my time here.”
Clearly State Your Intention to Resign:
- Be direct and concise in communicating your decision to resign and leave the company. Specify your final day, providing the standard two weeks’ notice or whatever time required by your contract or employee handbook.
- Example: “I’m writing to submit my formal notice of resigning from my position at [Company Name], effective [Effective Date].”
Highlighting the Positive:
Emphasize the positive aspects of your time with the company. Focus on the skills and experiences that have prepared you for your future endeavors.
Example: “I am leaving to pursue a new opportunity that aligns with my personal and professional goals. My time here has equipped me with valuable skills that I am eager to apply in my next adventure.”
Offering to Ensure a Smooth Transition:
- Write a letter that demonstrates your commitment to a seamless transition by offering assistance during the handover period. Mention your willingness to train a replacement or provide support in transferring your responsibilities.
- Example: “I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am open to collaborating with my colleagues during the next two weeks to facilitate the transfer of my responsibilities.”
Expressing the Desire to Stay in Touch:
- Convey your interest in maintaining relationships with your colleagues beyond your time at the company. Invite them to stay in touch and express your optimism about potential future collaborations (if you mean it).
- Example: “I look forward to staying in touch and hope that our paths cross again. Thank you.”
Using a Formal Resignation Letter Template:
- Structure your letter professionally, using a formal template so that you feel confident when submitting your resignation. Ensure that it includes all necessary details, such as your contact information, the date, and a formal salutation.
- Tip: You can find resignation letter templates on Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages, or just by googling an example.
Writing a letter of resignation is one step toward a successful transition to the next phase of your life and career. By expressing gratitude, clarity, and a willingness to facilitate a smooth handover, you not only leave on a positive note but also set the stage for future opportunities.
If you would like further support in your career, business, or leadership, my team and I would love to support you in creating a sustainable life through our coaching services! You can schedule a 30-minute legacy business or career review call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together, and you’ll receive 3 action-items from me.
