You’ve evaluated the job offer and decided it’s the right move. So, how do you break the news to your current boss? Resigning professionally means you get a clean break and potential future opportunities. Not doing so can come back to bite you in unexpected ways.
Here are a few simple things you need to do to resign professionally and ensure you don’t burn any bridges.
Submit a Letter of Resignation
Write a professional resignation letter and be specific about your reasons for leaving. Your first paragraph should focus on the positive aspects of your time with the company and how appreciative you are for the opportunities/training you’ve received.
Your second paragraph should briefly explain why you made the decision to pursue a new opportunity (to further your career, learn a different industry, etc.). Give just enough information to explain your decision-making, but don’t be too specific. Telling them where you are going or your new salary simply opens the door to challenges and counter-offers.
Give Proper Notice
Be sure to give the minimum number of weeks notice expected and, if feasible, offer to do whatever you can to make the transition smoother. Although many employers will choose to terminate early, always assume they’ll want you to stay through your 2-3 weeks notice period (in other words, don’t wait until the last minute).
Stay Positive & Friendly
Be as gracious and considerate as possible during your last few weeks. Leave them with a positive impression. Don’t allow yourself to fall into any potential grey areas. Only disclose what is necessary to work friends and colleagues as they could be pressured in subtle ways to disclose this information.
Remember that it is likely to be an uncomfortable period of time, which is why it’s good to have a plan for your notice period, in which all of the duties you need to handle are defined and managed. Make sure you are mentally prepared for the small talk, gossip, or direct questions about your leaving.
Revisit the Contract You Signed
Have a last look at the employment contract you signed with the company you are leaving. Be mindful of any non-compete, non-solicitation clauses it contains. While many are not enforceable, some are very relevant and could put both you and your new employer in legal trouble, should they be breached.
By ensuring your new opportunity is a great career move, then giving proper notice, writing a formal resignation letter, and leaving your work organized, so that the new hire may pick up where you left off, you will squash any potential bad feelings about your leaving.