I’m all too accustomed to that uncomfortable feeling in your abdomen when you must hit ship on a resignation letter to your supervisor.
(I’ve written 4 over the course of my profession.)
I at all times attempt to inform myself that tens of millions stop their jobs each month. However as a people-pleaser, I can by no means appear to shake the nervous vitality.
Because it’s very not often a simple dialog to have, I like to ensure my resignation letter is direct however respectful. Appreciative however intentional. Cordial however skilled. You get it.
Right here’s how you should utilize your resignation letter to show a clumsy goodbye into an opportunity for a long-term skilled connection. Or on the very least, an opportunity to safe just a few references for the longer term.
Desk of Contents
What’s a resignation letter?
A resignation letter is a proper doc that lets your employer know that you’re resigning from (or leaving) your place.
It’s the official announcement of your departure from the corporate with particulars about your final day and your transition plan.
David Rubie-Todd, co-founder & advertising head at Sticker It notes, “I would say that the resignation letter shouldn’t be a proof of why you might be leaving. It’s a discover that you’re — nothing extra and nothing much less.”
I couldn’t agree extra. It’s your official assertion that you’ll now not be performing your duties and might be transferring on from the corporate. We’ll get into what it’s best to and may not embody a bit later.
There’s solely been one occasion the place I’ve handed in a bodily resignation letter to my supervisor, however it may be submitted both by electronic mail or print.
I usually submit my resignation letter through the dialog the place I’m giving my two weeks’ discover or instantly after.
The best way to Write a Skilled Resignation Letter
Your resignation letter ought to be concise and centered. Embrace the date on the high, and begin issues off with a proper greeting to your supervisor. Your first paragraph ought to be your assertion of resignation. Subsequent, embody a physique paragraph or two to mirror in your expertise and briefly focus on your transition plan. And eventually, shut with an expression of gratitude, your contact info, and your signature.
The way in which I see it, your resignation letter ought to successfully convey two issues: your gratitude for the chance and your professionalism.
I like to begin the resignation course of with a face-to-face dialog with my supervisor. That approach, I can hold the precise letter temporary and solely concentrate on the related particulars — just like the date of my final day and my exit plan.
There are different contact factors, like the ultimate 1:1s together with your supervisor or your exit interview with HR, the place you’ll be able to focus on your departure (and the explanations for it) in additional element.
Do you have to use AI to put in writing a resignation letter?
As a author, I exploit AI for very particular functions — like summarizing info or outlining concepts for inspiration. That mentioned, I imagine it’s greatest to make use of AI instruments like ChatGPT that can assist you format or finalize your resignation letter.
Right here’s an instance the place I requested ChatGPT to put in writing a easy resignation letter for me.
Granted, I didn’t present any background particulars about my position or expertise with the corporate, however it is a fairly good construction to assist me get began:
[Date]
Pricey [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to tell you of my choice to resign from my place as [Your Position] at [Company Name], efficient [Last Working Day, typically two weeks from today’s date].
I’ve appreciated the alternatives and experiences I’ve had throughout my time at [Company Name], and I need to thanks and the crew for the assist and steerage you offered me.
I’m dedicated to making sure a easy transition throughout my remaining time right here and can do my greatest to finish any excellent duties or tasks.
Thanks.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
One other one in every of my favourite methods to make use of AI is to shine my writing, and HubSpot’s AI paragraph rewriter is so nice for this.
You should use it to experiment with completely different tones and strike the correct stability. That is particularly useful if you happen to’re leaving a job with a nasty style in your mouth — been there.
Right here’s an instance:
Unique language: I assume I realized just a few issues from this job, however I would like to maneuver on from this poisonous surroundings as quickly as attainable.
Up to date with AI paragraph rewriter: Whereas I’ve gained some useful insights throughout my time right here, it’s important for my well-being {and professional} progress to maneuver on presently.
Strive HubSpot’s AI paragraph rewriter at no cost.
You may as well use it to refresh language from a earlier resignation letter or rework an output from ChatGPT to suit your present state of affairs.
Both approach, resignation letters are fairly simple, so I say use AI to assist pace up the writing course of.
Resignation Letter Format
I pulled one in every of my outdated resignation letters from the archive, so let’s use this to speak about format.
(Eliminated all of the juicy particulars, sry.)
January 20, 2022
Pricey [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to inform you that I’ll be leaving my position as [My Position] at [Company Name]. My final day might be February 9, 2022.
I need to thank [Company Name] for the entire assist and steerage I obtained throughout my time right here. It has been a pleasure working alongside people who find themselves really keen about giving underrepresented communities the sources they should lead more healthy lives. The Healthcare Group right here is, indisputably, one in every of a form.
Through the subsequent couple of weeks, I’ll work carefully with you to make this transition as easy as attainable, and I’ll attain out to [Colleague Name] to inform [Client Name] of my departure.
Wishing the crew continued success, and I look ahead to staying in contact.
All the very best,
Alana Chinn
[LinkedIn Profile URL]
[Email Address]
I’ll break it down additional within the subsequent part for straightforward reference.
What do I embody in an expert resignation letter?
- Date and Greeting
- Assertion of Resignation
- Expression of Gratitude
- Transition Particulars
- Closing Paragraph
1. Date and Greeting
This half is simple. Checklist the date you’re submitting your resignation letter so HR has a proper submitting date. Then, greet your supervisor with a easy salutation.
Right here’s what I did:
January 20, 2022
Pricey [Manager’s Name],
2. Assertion of Resignation
The truth that you’re leaving your position on the firm is why you’re writing the letter within the first place, so I like to guide with that. State the place you’re resigning from and the date of your final day.
That, of us, is your assertion of resignation.
Professional tip: I wouldn’t really feel the necessity to gush right here. Actually, I’d keep away from openings like this:
“I am so sorry, however I am resigning from the position of [Your Position] in two weeks, though it has been a real pleasure working with you all. I do know that is the worst, however I promise, I would not if I did not must.”
Right here’s what I did:
I’m writing to inform you that I’ll be leaving my position as [My Position] at [Company Name]. My final day might be February 9, 2022.
3. Expression of Gratitude
For the physique of my resignation letter, I often embody two brief paragraphs. The primary expresses my gratitude for the chance.
Take a second to mirror in your time on the firm. Thank them for the dear coaching, the supportive crew surroundings, and even simply the work expertise.
If in case you have unfavourable causes for leaving, attempt to be as particular and real as attainable. I am certain yow will discover not less than one advantage of the job … proper?
Right here’s what I did:
I need to thank [Company Name] for the entire assist and steerage I obtained throughout my time right here. It has been a pleasure working alongside people who find themselves really keen about giving underrepresented communities the sources they should lead more healthy lives. The Healthcare Group right here is, indisputably, one in every of a form.
4. Transition Particulars
Onto the second physique paragraph: the one which briefly talks about my transition plan. Right here, I be aware how I’ll assist tie up any unfastened ends and make the transition as seamless as attainable on my approach out.
Professional tip: I like to recommend making a separate transition plan that outlines your tasks and duties with full particulars on the way you’ll hand over your duties.
No want to incorporate that in your resignation letter.
Right here’s what I did:
Through the subsequent couple of weeks, I’ll work carefully with you to make this transition as easy as attainable, and I’ll attain out to [Colleague Name] to inform [Client Name] of my departure.
5. Closing Paragraph
To wrap issues up, I often embody a closing paragraph with properly needs and a gap to remain in contact. I’ll add a hyperlink to my LinkedIn profile (if we’re not already linked) and my private electronic mail tackle.
You’ll be able to add your telephone quantity too, if you happen to really feel moved to take action.
Right here’s what I did:
Wishing the crew continued success, and I look ahead to staying in contact.
All the very best,
Alana Chinn
[LinkedIn Profile URL]
[Email Address]
What To not Embrace in a Resignation Letter
- Future Profession Strikes
- Distasteful Language
- Emotional Attachments
- Criticism of Coworkers
- Anger or Bitterness
1. Future Profession Strikes
When you can point out the place you are going subsequent, I don’t suggest telling your employer about your new place at size. Maintain issues skilled and concentrate on setting your current crew up for achievement earlier than your departure.
2. Distasteful Language
When you might really feel the urge to criticize your former job, the resignation letter is not the time to air out the soiled laundry.
Belief me, you by no means know while you would possibly cross paths together with your outdated colleagues sooner or later — particularly if you happen to’re staying in the identical business.
George Cotter, web optimization marketing consultant at Tall Advertising and marketing says, “If you’re leaving due to a battle or one thing overtly unfavourable, bear in mind, you‘re resigning — it says all they should know. You don’t want to inform them once more.”
You’re in your approach out anyway. Let that talk for itself.
3. Emotional Attachments
It’s not unusual to kind connections together with your teammates. I’ve been recognized to have a piece bestie or two. Nonetheless, save the emotional sentiments for face-to-face conversations.
Your resignation letter is an expert doc, so I say keep on with the formalities.
4. Criticism of Coworkers
Just like distasteful language, your resignation letter does not want to incorporate unfavourable feedback about your colleagues or managers on the firm. The letter is supposed to conclude your tenure — keep centered.
5. Anger or Bitterness
The truth is you could be leaving a job with some resentment. I do know I’ve.
However expressing anger or bitterness in your approach out will not be the way in which to go.
Daniel Prepare dinner, HR/advertising govt at Mullen and Mullen says, “I prefer to keep away from negativity, as this isn’t the place to air grievances or present criticism concerning the firm or co-workers.
Even when I’m leaving due to unfavourable experiences, a resignation letter ought to be centered on transferring ahead — not on previous complaints.”
Attempt to mirror on optimistic moments and the way you gained helpful data concerning the business slightly than airing out the soiled laundry.
For extra ideas, watch what HubSpotter Jamal Meneide has to say on the subject of resignation letters:
Free Skilled Resignation Letter Templates
Let’s face it: We have now nearly every thing at HubSpot, together with free resignation letter templates (hooray, all of us say in unison). These templates are versatile and tremendous straightforward to customise based mostly in your position.
Obtain the templates at no cost.
Job Resignation Letter Templates
I acknowledge that sure positions, like healthcare and C-suite roles, benefit a extra particular letter of resignation while you go away.
Whereas HubSpot’s templates are nice for all-purpose use, I’ve included just a few templates for a few of these extra dynamic roles under.
1. Contractor Resignation Letter Template
As a contractor, you could want to regulate the main target of your resignation letter to deal with your closing assignments and the way you‘ll be parting methods together with your consumer.
This contains any unfinished duties and the way you’ll settle for your final cost.
Strive utilizing this template:
[Date]
Pricey [Manager’s Name],
I remorse to tell you that I might be resigning from my place because the [Department] Freelancer as my contract with [Company Name] expires on April 20, 2022.
I’ve loved my time right here, and I’ve realized and grown a terrific deal. I’m glad to have been part of the corporate, and I want to thanks for the alternatives I’ve had.
I’m saddened to be transferring on from the corporate, however I’m going to be taking up new challenges with [New Company Name]. I hope my expertise right here has helped the corporate with its tasks, and I’m glad to have been part of the crew.
If in case you have any questions or considerations, please be at liberty to contact me. I might be accessible that can assist you with any closing tasks.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
2. Govt Resignation Letter Template
A fast electronic mail or two-paragraph discover to your superior won’t suffice as an official resignation if you happen to’re in an executive- or senior-level management position.
As a result of these roles are more durable to fill, you would possibly play a extra important position within the transition interval.
Strive utilizing this template:
[Date]
Pricey [Manager’s Name],
Please let this letter function my resignation as [Your Position] at [Company Name] efficient [Last Working Date].
I’ll cherish the chums I’ve made and maintain onto the various accomplishments which might be a part of my historical past with [Company Name]. As we half methods, I’m proud we have been in a position to [List of Major Accomplishments].
I’m assured that the board will be capable to discover a superb alternative for [Your Position] and proceed the corporate’s well-deserved success.
For all future communications, you’ll be able to attain me by telephone at [Phone Number] or by electronic mail at [Email Address].
I want you and the corporate the very best sooner or later.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Trainer Resignation Letter Template
As a instructor, you could need to maintain house to debate your expertise working with college students and the way you’ll assist your non permanent or full-time alternative with the transition.
Strive utilizing this template:
[Date]
Pricey [Manager’s Name],
Please settle for this letter as my formal resignation from my place as [Your Position] at [School Name]. To make sure ample time for a easy transition, my final day of employment might be [Last Working Day].
My expertise as an educator has been insightful, difficult, and fulfilling, and dealing with the [School Name] college students has introduced me nice pleasure.
Thanks for the chance to spend money on the lives of youngsters by means of studying and play. I’m grateful to have been a part of this crew and can carry the various classes I realized with me into my future endeavors.
As a result of the continued success and care of the scholars are of the utmost significance to me, I’m devoted to doing no matter I can to make the transition as seamless as attainable. I’m glad to coach my alternative on our present curriculum and [List of Responsibilities].
I want all the very best for the [School Name] college students, lecturers, and administration. Thanks once more to your assist and management throughout my time right here.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Nurse Resignation Letter Template
As a nurse, it is vital to provide enough discover of your departure to make sure there are not any healthcare disruptions to your sufferers.
You should use your resignation letter to thank your employer for the expertise and supply coaching assist to your successor.
Strive utilizing this template:
[Date]
Pricey [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to tell you of my resignation as [Your Position] at [Facility Name], efficient two weeks from right now. My final day of labor might be [Last Working Day].
Working at [Facility Name] has been a rewarding expertise. I’ve loved my time with you and realized a terrific deal about working efficiently with a crew.
It was an honor to work with such devoted employees who’re dedicated to creating [Facility Name] a spot to obtain compassionate care. I thanks for the coaching and the chance to develop with you in my profession. I want all of the residents and employees good luck sooner or later.
In the event you really feel it could be useful, I might be glad to help with the hiring and coaching of my successor over the subsequent two weeks.
Please be at liberty to contact me you probably have any questions. My electronic mail tackle is [Email Address], and my cellular phone quantity is [Phone Number].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Resignation Letter Examples
Now that you’ve got just a few templates underneath your belt, I’m going to share some hypothetical (!) examples of resignation letters from my present place as Advertising and marketing Weblog editor at HubSpot.
That approach, you’ll be able to see a number of the blanks stuffed in with actual info.
Brief Resignation Letter Examples
Brief resignation letters are nice for conditions the place:
- You want to go away a job abruptly for private (or skilled) causes.
- You don’t need to overshare particulars about your departure or subsequent steps.
- You’re sad together with your expertise and need to stay skilled.
- You haven’t been with the corporate for very lengthy.
Listed below are two brief resignation letter examples utilizing my position as an inspo:
Instance 1:
November 15, 2024
Pricey Meg,
I’m writing to tell you that I might be resigning from my place as Advertising and marketing Weblog Editor at HubSpot on November 30, 2024.
I recognize the chance to develop as a content material strategist throughout my time right here. I’m dedicated to working with you and the remainder of the Weblog crew to facilitate a easy transition earlier than my departure.
Thanks once more for the chance to be part of such a unbelievable crew and HubSpot’s impactful work.
Sincerely,
Alana Chinn
Instance 2:
November 15, 2024
Pricey Meg,
I’m writing to inform you that I’ll be leaving my position as Advertising and marketing Weblog Editor at HubSpot. My final day might be November 30, 2024.
I need to thanks, the Weblog crew, and HubSpot for the entire assist and steerage I obtained throughout my time right here. My objective is to make this transition as easy as attainable over the subsequent couple of weeks.
Wishing the crew continued success, and lots of extra well-timed GIFs.
Sincerely,
Alana Chinn
Lengthy Resignation Letter Instance
Longer resignation letters work properly if:
- You’re leaving on a optimistic be aware and need to emphasize that.
- You’ve been with the corporate for some time and have constructed shut relationships.
- You need to go away issues open to work collectively once more sooner or later.
Right here’s an instance (once more, utilizing my position as an inspo):
November 15, 2024
Pricey Meg,
I’m writing to formally announce my resignation from my place as Advertising and marketing Weblog Editor at HubSpot, efficient November 30, 2024. This choice has been made after cautious consideration and reflection of my skilled targets.
I need to specific my gratitude to you and all the Weblog crew to your assist and camaraderie throughout my time right here. Because of HubSpot, I’ve had alternatives for progress and studying as a content material strategist that I can take with me.
I’m dedicated to making sure a easy transition throughout my final two weeks with the corporate. I’m prepared to help with the handover of my duties and assist any coaching for the performing editor.
Thanks once more for the chance to be part of the HubSpot Weblog crew. I want you all nothing however continued success sooner or later, and I look ahead to holding in contact.
Sincerely,
Alana Chinn
Skilled Resignation Letter Samples
Haven’t had sufficient but?
I’m a agency believer which you could by no means have too many examples. So, listed here are some extra resignation letter samples for much more eventualities.
1. Gracious Resignation Letter Pattern
For occasions when you’ll be able to actually say you really liked your job:
[Date]
Pricey Supervisor,
I want to inform you that I’m resigning from my place as Information Analyst for Firm A, efficient November 30, 2024.
I recognize the alternatives for skilled improvement that you’ve got offered me over the previous 4 years. I’ve loved my tenure at Firm A, and really feel grateful to have began my profession alongside such a devoted crew.
I’ve accepted a instructing place in Virginia. Whereas my expertise at Firm A was rewarding, I am excited to pursue my ardour for instructing.
If I could be of any assist throughout this transition, please let me know. I’m prepared to assist out with freelance work till you discover a alternative.
Thanks once more for the chance to work at Firm A. I want you all the very best and look ahead to staying in contact. You’ll be able to electronic mail me at alana@electronic mail.com.
Sincerely,
Alana Chinn
2. Instant Resignation Letter Pattern
For occasions when you must go away your job prior to anticipated:
[Date]
Pricey Supervisor,
I remorse to tell you that I am resigning from my place because the Information Analyst at Firm A, efficient instantly.
Whereas my contract requires me to work till December 31, 2024, I might be grateful if I may stop working instantly. I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this sudden information might trigger.
Thanks for the unbelievable alternatives you have provided me to develop professionally and personally.
Please let me know if there’s something I can do to make the transition smoother.
Sincerely,
Alana Chinn
3. Retirement Resignation Letter Pattern
For the time while you’re formally, actually, and really off the clock:
[Date]
Pricey Supervisor,
After a lot consideration, I’ve determined to retire from Firm A on December 31, 2024.
I’ve loved working right here over the previous 10 years, and I’m happy with every thing our crew has achieved. Although I’m unhappy that this chapter of my life is closing, I’m trying ahead to touring and spending extra time with my household.
As we put together for my departure, I’m glad to help with hiring my alternative and anything that can assist make this a easy transition.
Thanks for all of the alternatives and assist you will have provided me over time. I want you all the very best.
Sincerely,
Alana Chinn
4. Prolonged Discover Resignation Letter Pattern
For occasions while you’re in a position to present ample time for transition:
[Date]
Pricey Supervisor,
Please settle for this letter as discover of my intent to resign from my place as Information Analyst at Firm A on the finish of this quarter. My final day might be December 31, 2024.
Whereas it’s powerful to depart this unimaginable crew, I might be transferring on to pursue an MFA in Inventive Writing on the College of Iowa. It is at all times been my dream to put in writing books and I imagine that that is the very best path for me to realize that.
Thanks for all of the assist and steerage you will have given me during the last 5 years. I’m deeply grateful for the entire alternatives I’ve had right here.
Since my final day is six weeks from now, I’ll work towards finishing my present tasks, together with coaching and handing off my high-level duties to different members of the crew. Please let me know if there’s something I can do that will assist ease this transition.
Sincerely,
Alana Chinn
5. Private Causes Resignation Letter Pattern
For occasions when life throws you a curveball:
[Date]
Pricey Supervisor,
I remorse to tell you of my resignation from Firm A. Resulting from private causes, I’m now not in a position to fulfill my duties as Information Analyst. My final day of employment might be November 30, 2024.
It has been fantastic working with you and the crew for the previous three years. I really recognize the alternatives I’ve been given to develop my expertise and develop inside my position.
Over the subsequent two weeks, I’ll work to finish my remaining assignments and hand off my ongoing tasks to different crew members. I’m additionally glad to help with anything you could want throughout this transition.
Thanks to your steerage and understanding. I’ll look again on my time right here at Firm A fondly, and I want you all the very best sooner or later.
Sincerely,
Alana Chinn
Prepared, Set, Resign
“Keep in mind, your resignation letter is a part of your skilled model, says Harmanjit Singh, founder & CEO of Web site Design Brampton. “It is like your digital footprint — it lasts longer than you would possibly suppose.”
My closing recommendation? Don’t let one dangerous expertise hold you from constructing your skilled bridges and holding your community intact as you begin your subsequent journey.
Better of luck together with your sleek goodbye!
Editor’s be aware: This put up was initially revealed in October 2018 and has been up to date for comprehensiveness.
