Resigning Gracefully

Congratulations! You've landed the job! Now you are faced with the delicate challenge of resigning from your current employer without burning bridges, and saying good-bye to friends and colleagues.

Your recruiter will help you draft your resignation letter. Then, you will make an appointment with your manager to respectfully explain your decision. Your manager needs to hear that your decision is firm and final, and that you are committed to your new employer. Express appreciation for the opportunities that your former employer has given you.

Be careful not to get lured into any discussions other than your resignation, such as how your employer wants to handle your final weeks or the transition of your current responsibilities and projects.

The following is a suggested letter of resignation.

Dear ___________________, I am submitting my written notice of resignation from (employer name) effective 2 weeks from today. I genuinely value my relationship with all of my co-workers and the rewarding experience of having worked at (employer name). However, after serious consideration I have accepted an offer with another company. This has been a difficult process and my decision to leave (employer name) has come after much deliberation. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have, but I am not in a position to discuss specifics about my new position. I would like the transition to be as painless as possible and do not wish to entertain the subject of counteroffer or extended notices. I thank you and (employer name) for a rewarding career to date and look forward to maintaining our personal friendship.

Sincerely