How to Tactfully Compose a Resignation Letter

Create a resignation letter that treats your boss with respect.

It may be tempting to write a letter of resignation that scorches your employer and all of your coworkers, but the best letter is one that is tactful and positive. Leaving your company as a class act is the right way to ensure that a bad reputation doesn't follow you wherever you go. Be sure to give your employer at least two weeks notice so that they have time to start looking for your replacement.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Company's Basic Information

Instructions

1. Write the letter as you would any formal business letter. Provide your name and contact information at the top of the page followed by your soon-to-be-former employer's contact information. Also type the date. Address the letter to your direct supervisor and make a copy for the human resources department.

2. Start the letter with something positive about your experience with the company and your position. You may tell your supervisor how much you enjoyed the opportunity to work with him and how much you learned on the job.

3. If you plan to give your reason for leaving, keep it brief and to-the-point. Put a positive spin on your decision even if you're leaving because you didn't get along with your boss or you weren't getting paid enough. Simply stating that you found a new position that is more in line with your career goals is the most tactful way to put it.

4. Provide an official last day with the company. Some employers may ask you to leave sooner or later. Offer to help your boss with the transition such as taking part in the hiring search or helping to train your replacement.

5. Close your letter with a simple, "Sincerely," your printed name and your signature.

Tips & Warnings

• Be polite - even if you have nothing nice to say and hated your job, you need to be polite. You don't have to lie, but you also do not need to tell the truth.

• A Letter of Resignation can be short and simple. It can be four sentences long and as long as it has the basic information, it's fine. Don't stress about writing a long letter and apologizing (or telling someone off). Keep it simple!

• Keep it polite. Don't use words that may be misunderstood or taken differently than intended. Be careful with word choice.

References

• Write Express; How to Write the Perfect Resignation Letter; Larry Barkdull