Tendering your resignation from a job is an important step in your career. Whether you’re moving to a new opportunity, seeking a change, or have personal reasons, resigning should be done professionally and courteously.
What does it mean to tender a resignation?
“Tendering a resignation” means formally notifying your employer that you intend to leave your job. It involves submitting a resignation letter or having a conversation with your supervisor to communicate your decision to resign. This process is an important step in transitioning out of a job and moving on to new opportunities.
How do you tender a resignation gracefully?
Here are the steps to take to ensure you navigate this process smoothly and be graceful when resigning.
1. Consider Your Decision:
Before tendering your resignation, it’s crucial to take time to reflect on your decision. Avoid making impulsive decisions, such as quitting on a bad day or resigning as a form of threat or blackmail. Such behaviour can backfire and strain your professional relationships. Once you resign, it’s typically not feasible to retract your decision easily. Ensure that your decision to resign is based on well-considered reasons such as career growth, personal development, or pursuing new opportunities. If you have concerns or issues at work, consider addressing them constructively with your employer before making a final decision to resign.
2. Check Your Employment Contract:
Review your employment contract for any notice period requirements or specific resignation procedures. This will guide how much notice you need to give and the process to follow.
3. Plan Your Resignation Letter:
Write a formal resignation letter addressed to your supervisor or manager. Keep it brief, stating your intention to resign, your last working day (as per your notice period), and a thank you note for the opportunity.
4. Have a Conversation:
Arrange a meeting with your supervisor to discuss your resignation in person. Be professional and positive during this conversation, even if your reasons for leaving are negative such as a workplace with toxic coworkers. Avoid extreme behaviours such as loud quitting. If you have concerns about the style of leadership discuss these here. For example transactional leadership may limit your ability for a promotion or stifle your pay. Be open and transparent. Employers often want to know the reason you have decided to leave.
5. Be Prepared for Questions:
Your supervisor might ask questions about your decision. Be honest but diplomatic in your responses. Be mindful of your communication style which includes adaptors in nonverbal communication.
6. Serve Your Notice Period & Tie Up Loose Ends:
Honour the notice period specified in your contract. During this time, finish pending tasks, document your work, and assist in the transition. Complete any administrative tasks required before leaving, such as returning company property or finalizing paperwork.
7. Prepare for an Exit Interview:
Some companies conduct exit interviews. Be constructive in your feedback and avoid being overly negative. Emotional intelligence is important here because it helps navigate the exit interview with sensitivity and professionalism. Demonstrating emotional intelligence allows you to communicate effectively, express feedback constructively, and manage any emotions or concerns that may arise during the conversation. By exhibiting empathy, self-awareness, and tact, you can leave a positive final impression and maintain professional relationships even as you transition out of the company.
8. Stay Professional Until the End:
Maintain professionalism and positivity until your last day. This will leave a good impression and preserve your professional relationships.
9. Say Goodbyes Graciously:
On your last day, say goodbye to colleagues and express gratitude to those you’ve worked with.
10. Never Burn Your Bridges:
When resigning from a job, it’s essential to leave on good terms and maintain positive relationships with colleagues and supervisors. Furthermore, keep doors open for potential future opportunities or references. You never know when you may need a reference or encounter former colleagues in your career journey. Leaving on good terms ensures that you preserve professional relationships and reputation, which can be valuable assets in your career.
Remember, maintaining a positive and respectful attitude throughout the resignation process can benefit you in the long run.
Is it okay to tender resignation via email?
Tendering a resignation via email can be acceptable depending on the circumstances and company culture. However, it’s generally considered more professional and respectful to resign in person or through a formal letter.
If resigning in person isn’t feasible, sending an email can be a practical alternative, especially for remote work situations or if your supervisor is located in a different location. In such cases, ensure that your email is clear, respectful, and includes the necessary details such as your last working day and a brief reason for leaving. Ensure your subject line is polite.
Sample Resignation Letter
This sample resignation letter is a short, simple and professional template you can customize according to your specific situation. Ensure to personalize it and adjust as needed based on your employment terms and relationship with your employer.
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Working Day]. The reason for my resignation is to pursue an advanced degree in [Field of Study] that will further enhance my professional skills and career prospects.
I have appreciated the opportunities and experiences gained during my time at [Company Name]. I have learned a great deal and am grateful for the support of my colleagues.
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am willing to assist in training a replacement or completing any pending tasks before my departure.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to be part of [Company Name]. I look forward to staying in touch and wish the team continued success in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Resigning from a job is a significant decision, but with proper planning and professionalism, it can be a smooth transition. Remember to leave on good terms, as maintaining positive relationships can benefit you in the future. Good luck with your next career move!
