How To Write A Thoughtful Resignation Letter In 2024

Making the decision to resign from your job can make you feel guilty and anxious. You feel guilty because (hopefully) you’ve enjoyed being a part of the team and you know that you are an asset to the company. Additionally, you may feel anxious because you don’t know how your resignation will be received. Nevertheless, if you feel it’s time to move on from your current employment and take your career to the next level, you will need to take the time out to craft an effective resignation letter to ensure you leave on good terms. If you want to know how to write a simple resignation letter, here is a step-by-step guide with an example.

Opening Statement

The best opening statement for a resignation letter is one that clearly states your intentions. Pleasantries such as, “I hope this letter finds you well,” are not necessary, just get straight to the point. For example: “I am writing to inform you that as of [date] I will officially resign from my position as [job title].” In this sentence, you have started out with a professional and straight forward tone that has set the stage for the rest of the letter.

Reason For Your Resignation

To prevent any misunderstandings, it is best that you explain why you are leaving your job. Honesty will ensure you do not burn any bridges and maintain a positive relationship with your former company. If you are leaving because of family reasons or you are moving to another town, explain that. Or maybe you’ve chosen a different career path, or you’ve been offered a higher paying job with another organization. Even if you are resigning because you are unhappy with the job, give your reasons why so your employer can make the necessary changes required to benefit your former co-workers.

Express Gratitude

No matter the reason for leaving the company, always express gratitude for the time you spent there. It shows that you appreciate the experiences and opportunities the job gave you, and that you recognize and respect the contributions of your supervisors and colleagues. Additionally, gratitude ensures you leave on good terms which is essential for future professional relationships and references.

Show you are grateful by telling your manager exactly what you are grateful for. For example: “I want to express my sincere gratitude to you and my colleagues for the guidance, support, and opportunities I have received during my time at [name of company].”

Offer To Help With The Transition

If you have been with your company for a while, finding a new employee with your skill level who understands the job as well as you will be difficult. Therefore, offering to help with the transition is a considerate and proactive gesture that your manager will greatly appreciate. It shows that you are a true professional and committed to the overall success of the company.

You can offer to help with the transition by saying something like: “I would like to assist you in making this transition as seamless as possible so if there is anything I can do during my last month here, please let me know.”

Closing Thoughts

End your resignation letter on a positive note because it highlights that although you are leaving, you value the experience you’ve had, the things you have learned, and the impact the company has had on your life. A positive closing is a gesture of goodwill and ensures that you exit gracefully with your reputation intact. A simple closing like, “I wish you and the team the best,” is extremely effective.

Example Of A Resignation Letter

Dear [name of manager]

I am writing to inform you that as of [date] I will officially resign from my position as [job title]. I was headhunted in July for a similar position closer to home. I have decided to take the job because it will enable me to manage my work life balance more effectively.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to you and my colleagues for the guidance, support, and opportunities I have received during my time at [name of company]. It has been an honor to be a part of such a dedicated team.

I would like to assist you in making this transition as seamless as possible so if there is anything I can do during my last month here, please let me know.

I wish you and the team the best.

Sincerely,

[Your full name]

Finally, if possible, deliver your resignation letter in person as this will add a personal touch to your departure. By placing the letter in the hands of your manager, you display maturity and empathy. Additionally, it eliminates that feeling of awkwardness as you wait for them to let you know that they’ve received your letter. After delivering your correspondence by hand, follow up with an electronic copy. By sticking to the above template, you will leave a lasting positive impression as you move forward in your career.