A resignation is an intention to leave your current employment. According to the Pew Research Center, in a movement that has been called The Great Resignation, the “quit rate” in the U.S soared in 2021 due to low pay, no opportunities for advancement, and or because they felt disrespected in their work environment. If you are thinking about leaving your job – or if you’ve made up your mind – remember not to burn any bridges. Job experiences and professional references are valuable. Even if you’ve already secured a new job, providing a concise and professional letter of resignation alongside an appropriate time notice can help to ensure that your employer, colleagues, and company will vouch for you in the future if you ever need it. Here is everything you need to know about writing a letter of resignation that will allow you to exit your job on a good note.

1. Address the Letter Professionally

Begin with a header in the top left-hand corner of the letter. The first line should include the date you intend to deliver the letter. The second line should include the name[s] of the person[s] being addressed along with their correct title (Miss, Ms. Dr., ect). The next three lines should include the address and name of the company. For example,

7/28/2022

Dr. Professional

Sample Company

1234 Main St. 

This Way, CT 53267. 

2. Clearly State Your Intention

Your intention, in this case, is to leave the company. This should be clear and concise. In no more than two sentences, address the recipient of the letter (probably your boss), state the position you will be leaving, and when you will be leaving. For example, 

Dear Dr. Professional, 

This is a formal notice of my resignation from my position as a line cook. My last day will be 8/4/2022, two weeks from today. 

3. A Brief Explanation Why You Are Leaving

Again, in no more than a sentence or two, simply state the reason why you will be leaving. Because the purpose of a letter of resignation is to leave on a good note, avoid anything that could be perceived as ungrateful. For example, instead of, 

You didn’t approve my time off request, 

Try something like,

I was offered a position at a company that would allow me to work remotely and this flexible scheduling is more conducive to my lifestyle. You could simply say, 

I have accepted a position elsewhere 

or 

I have made the decision to stay at home with my family, 

or whatever the case may be.

4. Express Gratitude

Thank your employer for hiring you and for the valuable experience you gained working for them. Mention some highlights of your career or some good memories you had there. For example,

Thank you for all the great opportunities you have provided to me and thank you for your excellent mentorship. I have learned so much during my time here. One of the highlights of my career was working with my department on the Watson account and seeing how completely satisfied they were with our efforts.

5. Offer to Train Your Replacement

You want to let your current employer know you won’t leave them hanging. Let them know you will do whatever you can to set them up for success. For example,

I would like to help transition the accounts I manage to my replacement so that things run smoothly after I leave. 

6. Sign Off

Wish your boss and company the best and that you look forward to staying in contact with them. Leaving a company doesn’t have to mean bad blood – let them know you would like to be part of their professional network. For example,

Thank you for everything; I wish Sample Company the best. Let’s stay in touch. You can reach me at my personal email and phone number. 

Provide a letter of resignation and a two weeks’ notice whenever you leave a career and maintain your professional connections so that they may serve you in the future.