"Tendering your resignation can be one of the most challenging aspects of changing jobs, particularly when you have built strong connections with your employer and colleagues."
There are a number of things to bear in mind to make resigning a little easier:
Mixed Emotions
It is normal for the elation of securing a new role to be followed by a temporary anti-climax.
You may feel flat at the prospect of resigning, or anxious about leaving colleagues, friends, and familiar surroundings.
Remind yourself of the reasons you began looking for a new role; these remain valid and should alleviate any guilt about leaving.
When to Tender Your Resignation
Ensure you are fully committed to leaving your current employer before resigning, as reversing the decision may not be possible.
Once you have accepted a new offer, act promptly; delaying the process only makes it harder emotionally and practically.
How to Resign
Prepare a concise, polite resignation letter, noting your notice period and any entitlements such as accrued holiday or bonuses.
Arrange a meeting with your line manager or HR officer to deliver your resignation in person.
Keep explanations professional; avoid personal grievances, and remain calm, composed, and positive.
Offer support for handover tasks to minimize disruption and show professionalism.
Thank your employer for the opportunities provided.
The Exit Interview
Your resignation may come as a surprise; maintain a calm and firm approach.
Conduct the discussion professionally to leave on good terms and secure a positive reference.
Techniques Employers May Use to Retain You
Promotion Offers: Employers may promise a promotion to entice you to stay. Consider whether this offer genuinely addresses the reasons you wanted to leave.
Counter-Offers: Additional salary may be offered, but money alone rarely resolves the broader reasons for leaving. Accepting may impact trust and long-term career growth. Please refer to our in-depth guide to counter-offers.
Questioning Your Choice: Some employers may raise doubts about your prospective employer. Evaluate these carefully and consult your recruiter if unsure.
Emotional Pressure: You may face pressure highlighting the difficulty or cost of replacing you. Remember your reasons for leaving and that threats are often inappropriate or illegal.
Threat of Immediate Dismissal: In certain cases, particularly when joining a competitor, you may be asked to leave immediately. This can be unsettling but often provides a clean break.
Garden Leave: You may be required to serve notice away from the office, retaining salary and benefits but restricted from starting your new role until the period ends.
Succumbing to Retention Techniques
Statistics suggest that employees who remain due to retention tactics have a high likelihood of leaving voluntarily within six months, often due to unfulfilled promises.
Accepting such tactics can result in missed opportunities and restarting your job search unnecessarily.
Back: Career toolkit
Next: Counter-offer guide
