How to Write a Proper Letter of Resignation

There comes a point in most people's professional career where for one reason or another they need to leave a job. It may be because they were offered a better job, it may be because of conflicts in the workplace, or it may be because life situations require a shift. Whatever the reason - and no matter how unfortunate the circumstances surrounding a resignation - it is important to write a professional, well-thought out and well-presented letter, in order to maintain a professional demeanor that may influence future positions.

Things You'll Need

• Personal Letterhead (If Possible)
• Sealable Envelope

Instructions

1. Begin by examining your motivations to leave your job, and making absolutely certain you wish to resign. If your desire to resign is prompted by a problem you're having at the company, you may wish to talk to Human Resources to see if the issue can resolved. If your resignation is motivated by being offered a higher salary elsewhere, you may wish to see if your current employer can meet that new salary. Remember, once you tender your resignation it is unlikely you will be able to change your mind, so be as certain as you can be.

2. Write your resignation letter on a computer, rather than by hand. If you have personal letterhead, write it on that, but refrain from using company letterhead. Take care to format your resignation letter professionally, spell-checking and editing the same way you would any other piece of professional correspondence.

3. Make out your letter of resignation directly addressed to your immediate superior. Unless your company explicitly spells out an alternate way to resign, this is a courtesy to them.

4. Use positive language as much as possible in your letter. If you have grievances you feel are crucial to include, try to do so in a non-confrontational way. Do not use your letter of resignation as an opportunity to air all the dirty laundry about your company, or to share all of the things that bothered you while you worked there that you kept bottled up. In the long run it will serve you better by thanking your supervisor and employer for the chances they gave you while you were there, and skipping over any bad blood that may exist. Even if you have another job waiting, at some point in the future you may wish to use this person as a recommendation.

5. Offer to assist in training a replacement, or in helping out in any other way you feel comfortable. Although in some situations this may not be feasible, it can go a long way towards cementing a positive view of you in the eyes of your employer.

6. Prepare to meet with your supervisor or higher-level management to discuss your decision to leave, after you have delivered your letter of resignation. Be ready to keep the tone non-confrontational, and commit to leaving them with a positive view of you.