Last Updated on August 17, 2024
You’ve gone through the motions, done your best, and have even received praised for it. Unfortunately, something still doesn’t feel right. It’s time to write your resignation letter.
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Last year, I watched an interview starring Amy Porterfield, author of the book Two Weeks Notice. In the interview, she said something that really stuck with me:
Don’t quit on the day where everything is going wrong. Quit when you’ve had a perfect day, no problems at all, and you still don’t feel like it’s a right fit.
These words were the wake-up call that had me planning my next steps after my 9-5; the same steps that led to creating this blog, actually!
There are many ways to quit, but if you don’t want to burn a bridge, a resignation letter is a good idea. Leave on a good note with these easy to use tactics.
But first, let’s get something straight:
Do I still need to write a resignation letter?
YES. If you are planning to leave any job that you respect or are continuing a career in, you MUST write a resignation letter. This is not optional.
There are many different ways to quit now, from “quiet quitting” and ghosting , to posting your company’s recipes on TikTok for all and sundry. As entertaining as they may be, these tactics don’t actually set you up for success long-term.
Feel the situation out. Revisit the idea once your emotions have cooled off. Then plan your exit strategy from there.
How to Write a Resignation Letter
If you decide that writing a resignation letter should be your next step, start with these 4 steps.
1. Highlight Why the Work Was Great
I know it might sound harsh but here’s a little advice: if your writing does not apply to your audience, then it doesn’t matter.
Ouch! I hate this, but it’s sadly true!! When your boss or supervisor opens your resignation letter, they do not want to read a long diatribe of…
Me me me me me me me;
me me me me me me me.
Me me me me.
See you later,
me.
They just don’t, I’m sorry. Instead of doing this, start off strong by explaining what you appreciated about the job. Ask yourself these questions to get the creative juices flowing:
- What went right?
- Why was it a good fit?
- How did your team make it enjoyable and beneficial?
- What did you learn?
Even though you are sharing tidbits about your experience, you are still talking about the company collectively. This will make your reader tune in more and be more receptive to the next part.
We all know that it’s a resignation letter, so it hurts no one to start off on a happy note. Soften your messaging and end on a good note by showing gratitude.
This tip also ties into the idea that, “no one will remember what you said, but they’ll remember how you made them feel.” It will only help you in the long-run.
2. Rip Off the Band-Aid
When it comes to stating the facts, don’t beat around the bush. I’d wager that your reason for leaving shouldn’t go on longer than 2-sentences. If you openly hated the job or had struggles with your manager/supervisor, chances are high they know your reasons anyway. Don’t beat a dead horse.
Also, interestingly enough, shorter writing often registers as being more confident!
A resignation letter is a declarative: “I quit!” If your writing isn’t a) thanking them for the opportunity, or b) your reason “why”, then it’s filler text and it may come off as you being unsure of your decision.
So, stick to steps “a” and “b”. Well, include one more thing…
3. Details, Details, Details!
Fill in the gaps so your boss isn’t left confused or asking a bunch a questions. Some common ones to touch on are:
- When is your last day/how many week’s notice is this?
- When will you return company equipment/materials?
- Are there any standing projects that you will be completing before you leave? When will you be done with them?
The details you decide to include depend on your job. Give it some thought, and see what makes sense for you. Don’t write a resignation letter so vague that you have to have a check-in or debrief call after. Leaving is hard and uncomfortable enough as it is.
Also, this section of your letter should be relatively unemotional. Keep all of that for the first section, where you are showing your gratitude for the opportunity. It’s not rude to stick to the facts here, it’s just good practice.
4. Sign Off
Once you’ve touched base on all the necessary details, and proofread your letter, make sure to add your sign-off or signature.
And! Since you may not have a job already lined-up and waiting for you, read my guide on writing awesome Cover Letter. There, I share all the tips that I’ve picked up from corporate professionals.
Still struggling to get the first draft of your resignation letter finished? Check out my post on pushing through the dreaded first draft for any writing project.
Good luck!
