About Resigning From a Job

Resigning from a job seems easy. Get up, tell the boss you're done and walk out. But take a deep breath before you use the "take this job and shove it" approach. It could do more harm than you expect. The better path? Leave a positive impression behind you. Resigning doesn't have to mean burning all your bridges.

Types

According to the Society for Human Resource Management, most resignations occur for one of four reasons:
1) An employee accepts a better career opportunity.
2) An employee has a chance to earn more money or get better benefits.
3) An employee moves to another location.
4) An employee dislikes the position or management.

Another type of resignation is known as constructive discharge. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, this occurs when an employer forces a resignation by creating a hostile workplace or making unacceptable changes to work conditions. Laws vary by state, but employees who resign due to constructive discharge may have access to unemployment benefits and retain the right to take legal action for additional compensation.

Effects

According to corporate recruiting firm Hays Inc., how you resign can have a substantial impact on your career. Most importantly, a cordial resignation will help ensure your current employer will provide a positive reference in the future. Often overlooked is the possibility that you may work with your current coworkers at other employers in the future.

Time Frame

Many companies request two weeks notice when an employee resigns. In some trades, the notice period may be one week. On the other hand, organizations may ask key employees, especially supervisors, to give as much as a month's notice. Check your employee handbook for specifics.

Considerations

A formal resignation should be offered in writing. To avoid seeming impersonal, carry the letter to your immediate supervisor and announce your resignation. Whether you have enjoyed your position or not, try to keep the conversation cordial and unemotional. Emphasize that you are willing to help with any transition. Avoid using your resignation to criticize the company--odds are it will be seen as sour grapes. If asked to give constructive criticism, try to keep your feedback positive.

Remember, your goal is no longer to change the company. You want to leave with a good reputation and positive references.

Misconceptions

You do not have to share any information about your next position, career plans and new salary when you resign.

Think hard before accepting a counter-offer. Resigning indicates a lack of loyalty to the organization, and you may find the offer merely buys the company time to replace you.

Surprisingly, many people resign from one job before they have a final written offer from a new employer. Whenever possible, make sure you have a firm job offer before quitting your current position.

Warning

Even if the company requests two weeks notice, it does not have to keep you employed that long after a resignation. Make sure you've removed any personal items before you resign.

Get legal advice if the company asks you to sign any documents relating to possible court cases or liabilities before leaving.

Resources

• Resignation Tips (Hays Specialty Recruitment)
• Society for Human Resource Management