How To Write A Resignation Letter

By Jen
When you write a resignation letter, it is mainly because you wish to leave the job/position you are currently in, for whatever reason you may have.
Most people find this a daunting task, but if you keep it simple you will be fine!

Always verbally inform your boss of this decision first then confirm it with your resignation letter.
Always make the conversation short and to the point, do not go into detail over your reasons to leave.
Most employers will not like the idea of you handing over your resignation and will try and counter offer you to stay, basically giving you more money or different privileges, but remember why you are handing in your resignation in the first place.
Do not hesitate to hand in your resignation letter because you are scared, their reaction is only one of sorrow as they are loosing a valued employee, so tread carefully afterwards as they might not be that happy!

How your feel at the time be it happy or sad, when you write your resignation letter it must be positive, formal and to the point, you must always leave your position on good terms with the employer and the company so never vent your anger or feelings when you write your letter.
If you are angry it will be best to wait until those feelings reside, to write a perfect positive resignation letter is the ultimate way of how to get sweet revenge.



This avoids any issue of Defamation and legal liabilities that could arise should you use negative statements, accusations or arguments about your company, coworkers etc when you write your letter.
You should write your resignation letter so the employer feels he is not at fault what so ever.
Also you will be able to get a great reference off your employer for future job opportunities.
As most employers keep resignation letters for future reference, you never know where your old co-worker or boss may turn up so always keep your letter positive!
Leave with friends!

When your write a resignation letter you usually state when you will be leaving that position, this date is usually determined by your contract of employment, which instructs you on how to complete a resignation, and how long your notice will be.
Most contracts state two weeks notice will be given, this is also good for the employer as they can find someone in that time period to replace you and also loose ends can be tied up and work finished before you leave.

How to set out your resignation letter:

(Write your home address here)

(Write name of person you are writing too and position here)
(Write business name and address here)

(Insert date here)

Dear (Boss, employers name)

I hereby wish to hand in my resignation from the position of (insert position here)
as of (insert date here).

And according with my contract of employment I will end my employment on (insert date here)

(optional) I am sorry to leave and I thank you for your support during my employment with your company.
And I have enjoyed my time here (Write something nice about your achievements and how you enjoyed working with the company.)
and thank you for having me as a part of your team.

I wish you and your company all the best in future endeavors.

Yours sincerely
(sign your name here)
(type your name here)


When writing your resignation letter, it must be written or typed neatly on paper and either delivered by hand or by post, faxing or emailing a resignation is not a very professional way of how to hand to resign and will not leave a good feeling with in the company.

Send copies of your resignation letter to your Boss (employer) and a copy to the HR (Human Resource) manager or department(or similar)
Don't forget to keep a copy for your own reference should you need a template for when you leave a new position and wish to write a new resignation letter, and for reference should any legal battles come about.

See Also:
US job site