The Perfect Resignation Letter – My 5 Minute Rule

Marvelous day! You have just been recruited for a wonderful new company, but you are still working for the old firm. How do you break off work relations without burning years of bridges? The future looks good, but you know there may be a time on down the road when you will need that job reference.

Your recruiter can and usually does help you write the all important ‘Letter of Resignation’. They know you well by now, they have sung your praises to their clients and quickly located a better job for you. 

A1 Best Staffing frequently helps our candidates with this last hurrah. It’s all about how the letter is written and constructed. Give the customary two-weeks notice, but consult your employee handbook to verify company expectations. State a specific last day of work date.

Sample wording for the first paragraph: “after much reflection and consideration,” I have decided to leave __________ (your old employer) on ______ (a specific date). 

Remember, you are moving on. You deserve this better job. Don’t sell yourself short and stumble now over regrets about leaving. Your decision has been made, and now all that is left is to resign in style.

That said, definitely avoid any criticism of the present employer. Rein in your temper; this is not the time/place to rant about your old work place. If you do they won’t care, nothing will change and the resignation letter will be in your permanent file for eternity to come back and haunt you.

You are a pro, so leave them wanting more not wiping their brow with relief that you are gone. If you do this step right you will have great references from your old company.

Sample wording for next paragraph: “Thank you to ___________(your old supervisor) and the whole ___________ company for the opportunity to work with you.”

Next, mention your most specific accomplishments. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to ‘toot your own horn’ in your own words. Make it count.

Give a paragraph or two to reciting how well you did your job, giving specific examples. Do refresh their memory, get those high points down in print for all to see, crafted in your own language. Don’t be shy here.

Got the resignation letter printed and signed? Now, verbally carry your goodwill to a new level as you announce to management your decision to quit. Five minutes talk time max, and then offer to help them find and train your replacement, if possible. If this goes well they will remember you fondly. (Also an excellent opportunity to earn a confidential referral commission from your recruiter.)

Now, the final step.  Deliver the letter personally and with a smile within five minutes of your verbal announcement.  That’s it, you are done. Moving on - with a smile.