How to Write a Letter of Resignation
One of the most important things to remember when writing a letter of resignation is to stay professional, do not allow emotion to influence your words and keep focused and factual. Your letter should be short and to the point without sounding curt or rude. Be sure to give an adequate notice, and ask for a letter of reference.
Here are some tips to writing a letter of resignation. Acknowledge that you have had a pleasant work experience, but you have been offered a position that better fits your needs and lifestyle. Offer a notice – most industry standards are two weeks. Mention that you are willing to be available during this notice time to train your replacement. If you have vacation time to which you are entitled, note this in your letter and ask to have it credited to you. You may be able to take this vacation time in lieu of a notice if you will not be needed to train a replacement. Do not say anything in a resignation letter that you may regret in the future! This may have been the worst job of your life, but focus the positives of the situation. Remember, it’s always better to state that you are leaving to pursue other career options than to say that you have finally found someone who will pay you what you are worth!
A letter of resignation should be typed, and include the following: the reason for resigning, the last day you will be working, a forwarding address should you be owed any monies, and the offer to help make a smooth transition for you and your employer. Assure your employer that you will work as hard, if not harder, during these last two weeks than you did during your tenure as an employee.