How to Resign - and get a good reference!

Most people dread the thought of resigning - there are sticky palms, awkward silences and uncomfortable moments. But, if you do it right, it can be over in 10 minutes flat - and you'll feel a whole lot of relief afterwards.

You can also do a little bit of research from say Love Money, and other website's of similar nature just to check out that you are covered for the important financial things in life!


Before you Hand Over the Letter:

Before you hand over your letter of resignation, arrange a meeting with your manager or boss and explain that you are resigning. Highlight the positive points of working with your current company and leave the meeting on a good note. Answer any questions your manager may have but do not give any details that you may not want to give at this stage.

Try to remain professional and do not get upset or confrontational (remember that you may need the company to provide you with a reference in the future).

The Written Resignation:

The resignation letter will include your name, date, the person it is addressed, notice of resignation, when you will finish work and your signature.

If you're leaving in a pleasant situation and feel that you want to say a little bit more, again, be upbeat - perhaps thank the manager for his/her help and support and say how much you have enjoyed working for the firm.

If however, you're unhappy and leaving in difficult circumstances, don't lose your temper. Some things are better left unsaid. If you really must have your say, speak to your boss instead. Never commit your thoughts to paper because they could be kept on record and used against you in the future.

Finally - if your manager and colleagues are supportive of your move. Why not buy them a box of chocs to share or another gift. They'll appreciate the gesture and you may need to call on them for career development in years to come.

Sample Resignation Letter:

Dear (name here),

I regret to inform you that I will be resigning from position as (your job title goes here) with (your company name goes here). As required by my contract of employment, I hereby give you (your notice period goes here) week's notice of my intention to leave my position as (position goes here). My last day of work will be (day, month and date goes here).

I wish both you (and the name of your current employer) every success for the future and would like to thank you for having me as part of your team.


Yours faithfully