How to Resign with Professionalism and Gratitude

2:40 Minute Read

Resigning from your job can be a delicate and significant milestone in your professional life.

Resigning is difficult for everyone. We hear this from leaders at the most senior level. It is challenging to leave a team and company that you respect and have worked closely with. How you handle this transition impacts your reputation and sets the tone for future endeavors.

Give Proper Notice:

Resignation etiquette dictates that you formally notify your employer of your intention to leave. The standard practice in the US is offering two weeks' notice unless your employment agreement specifies otherwise, allowing your employer sufficient time to regroup internally.

While your current employer may initially desire more time, this need often diminishes once they've made internal adjustments.

Plan Your Exit Strategy:

Before delivering your resignation, take the time to plan and organize your departure. Complete pending projects, document ongoing tasks, and prepare comprehensive handover notes to facilitate a seamless transition for your successor.

Write a Resignation Letter:

Your resignation letter is essential for two reasons. It demonstrates your level of professionalism and will likely remain in your file.

It should resemble a simple, brief, positive thank-you note rather than a white paper.

Resign in person and hand off the note at the end of the discussion.

Request an Exit Interview:

If your company offers exit interviews, take advantage of this opportunity to provide feedback and share insights on your experience. During the exit interview, maintain professionalism and honesty, focusing on constructive suggestions for improvement.

Read the room and only give the level of feedback they want.

This feedback can be valuable for the company's and your personal growth.

Notify Your Colleagues:

Inform your immediate team and closest colleagues about your resignation before it becomes public knowledge. Doing so establishes open communication channels and prepares them for the upcoming changes. During these conversations, express gratitude and appreciation for the support and collaboration you received during your time with the company.

Maintain Professionalism:

During your last days at work, maintain your professionalism and work ethic. Tie up loose ends, avoid leaving unfinished tasks, and complete necessary paperwork. This demonstrates your commitment to your role until the end and upholds your professional integrity.

Offer Assistance:

To facilitate a smooth transition, extend a helping hand to your employer and colleagues. Offer to assist in training or mentoring your successor, providing guidance on ongoing projects, or being available for any questions or clarifications even after your departure. This offer will be remembered and appreciated.

Express Gratitude:

Take a moment to reflect on your time with the company and sincerely express your appreciation to your employer and colleagues.

Write a heartfelt thank-you note acknowledging their support, mentorship, and the opportunities you had to grow and learn. This gesture of gratitude leaves a positive impression and helps maintain relationships for future collaborations.

Resigning from a job should be approached with forethought, professionalism, and gratitude. A graceful farewell reflects your character and sets the stage for future career opportunities and potential professional references.

Side Bar

Recently, we recruited a noted PE Portfolio Company President and installed him as CEO of a larger stand-alone organization.

Learning about the mutual respect this individual shared with the company was heartwarming.

The company planned a send-off, and the investors came in on his last day.

He was given a standing ovation at the end of the day.

A graceful farewell, he did it right.