The Proper Way to Resign

Once a new position has been accepted, you will need to consider is the timing of your resignation. Since two weeks’ notice is deemed as , make sure your resignation effectively coincides with your start date at the new company.

Try to avoid an extended start date. Even if your new job begins in 10 weeks, don’t give 10 weeks’ notice; wait eight weeks and then give two weeks’ notice. This way, you’ll safeguard yourself from catastrophe, in the unlikely occasion your new company pronounces a hiring freeze a month prior to you coming on board. By staying at your old job for only two weeks after you’ve announced your resignation, you won’t be subjected to the envy, scorn, or feelings of professional impotence that may result from your new role as a lame-duck employee.

Some companies will make your exit plans for you. I know a candidate whose employer had the security guard accompany him from the building the moment he declared his intent to go to work for a direct challenger. Fortunately, he was still given two weeks’ salary.

Your resignation should be taken care of in person, ideally on a Friday afternoon. Ask your direct supervisor if you can converse with him independently in his office. When you announce your intention to resign, you should also hand your supervisor a letter which states your last date of employment with the company. Let him know that you’ve enjoyed working with him, but that an opportunity originated that you couldn’t pass by, and that your decision to leave was made meticulously, and doesn’t portray any negative feelings you have regarding the company or the team.

You should also add that your selection is final, and that you would prefer not to be made a counteroffer, since you wouldn’t want your refusal to accept more money to seem as a personal affront. Let your supervisor know that you appreciate all the company’s done for you; and that you’ll do everything in your ability to make your departure as efficient and harmless as achievable.

Finally, request if there’s anything you can do throughout the transition period over the next two weeks, such as help train your successor, tie up loose ends, or delegate tasks.

Keep your resignation letter short, simple, and to the point. There’s no need to go into detail with regard to your new position, or what encouraged your choice to leave. If these concerns are essential to your previous employer, he’ll plan an exit interview for you, at which time you can hash out your distinctions ad infinitum. Be sure to supply a carbon copy or photocopy of your resignation letter for your company’s personnel file. This way, the circumstances surrounding your resignation will be well recorded for prospective reference.