There are a host of reasons why people resign from their job. It might be to advance their career with a better opportunity, or it could be simply due to a change in personal circumstances.

No matter the reason, leaving your job can often have negative connotations attached, but this needn’t be the case. There are many ways to ensure you part on good terms, allowing you to keep your professional relationships – and your reputation – intact.

How to Positively and Professionally Resign from Your Job

Your future success might depend on understanding how to resign ‘right’. There is no point in burning a bridge with your current employer and/or workmates (no matter how dissatisfied you might be) – especially if you remain in the same industry. You just never know when you might encounter them again later on!

Leaving on a good note is a savvier option, allowing you to leave a positive, lasting impression behind that is sure to benefit your future career. Here are eight resignation tips to help you get through the awkwardness and onto your next adventure:

1. Be prepared

It’s natural to feel uncomfortable when speaking to your manager about your resignation. It’s also easy for the nerves to creep in and cloud your thought processes, making it difficult to clearly and calmly explain your decision.

This is why it’s a good idea to think carefully about what you want to say beforehand. You can then take some time to run through it to ensure you cover all the necessary bases and frame it as positively as possible. Make sure to provide a brief (and diplomatic) reason for leaving, specify your intended date of departure (being sure to abide by any notice terms in your contract), and end positively by thanking them for the opportunities they have given you.

2. Set up a meeting with your manager

Once you’re comfortable with your resignation script, schedule a face-to-face meeting with your manager (or a video call if you work remotely). Let them know how much time you’ll need and ensure it’s a one-on-one conversation in a private setting.

3. Deliver your speech calmly and work with them to determine the next steps

Once you’ve handed in your resignation and thanked your manager, ask them what role they’d like you to play in the transition period. Query:

• Whether they will handle the resignation announcement, or if you will be involved
• What they require for a handover
• If they want you to help hire/train a replacement

Be sure to let them know you’re willing to do what you can to ensure an effective and smooth transition. For instance, being flexible about your notice period (provided you can and it is appropriate), will be greatly appreciated.

4. Follow up

After the meeting, follow up with a formal resignation letter via email confirming the points covered in the meeting. Keep it brief and express gratitude, whilst also clearly stating your day of departure and any other key details.

You can use our formal resignation letter template as a guide – click here to download it.

5. Act professionally

It is good business etiquette to make sure you’ve completed the resignation steps with your manager, including handing them your formal resignation letter, before letting the rest of your team or colleagues know. No employer wants to be the last to find out that one of their team members is leaving!

6. Take steps to smooth the transition

Document your daily tasks and where you’ve saved important files. Create quick ‘how to’ guides for processes, software programs or equipment. Write down a detailed transition plan for your replacement, including essential contacts. The more helpful you are, the more likely it is your employer will provide a positive reference.

7. End on a high note

It’s important to keep in mind that the way you handle your resignation is how you’ll be remembered. No matter how eager you may be to leave, aim to keep it positive by refraining from engaging in office gossip or conflict, and instead focusing on what you’ve gained from the role and your time at the company.

8. Stay in touch

As we mentioned earlier, leaving on the right terms means you can easily ask your manager if they’d be willing to write you a reference and/or give you a LinkedIn recommendation. Do this even if you already have another position lined up, as it’s helpful to have a record of the work you’ve done and the things you’ve achieved at the company.

You might also like to seek out recommendations and contact details from colleagues, clients or suppliers. Remain connected by sending out an update on what you’re doing once per quarter, as these network contacts are one of the most valuable things you can take away from a role.

Need More Support?

We understand that even with all of these tips, you may still feel a bit apprehensive about how to hand in your resignation. As a specialised Indigenous and non-Indigenous recruitment agency, we’ve helped countless candidates navigate the tricky terrain of handing in their notice. If you’d like further resignation advice or help with finding your next opportunity in Australia, feel free to get in touch with one of our consultants today.