If you’ve accepted a new role or just can’t deal with the current one any more, it’s probably time to had in your notice. But how to do that professionally and well?
It’s always a good idea to leave a job as professionally and courteously as possible, even if it’s a terrible environment and you fantasize regularly about setting your manager’s car on fire. (Side note: don’t do that. It won’t serve you well.)
Here’s how to do it.
- Write out your formal notice. This can be an email or a printed letter, but you want something formal and written to hand it. It should go something like this:
[Date]
Dear [supervisor name];
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [position title] with [company or organization]. My last day will be [your last day—usually two weeks from the date you give notice].
Thank you so much for the opportunity to work in this position for the past [amount of time you’ve been in the role]. I have appreciated the opportunities I’ve had to [a few things you’ve genuinely enjoyed], and I’ve learned [a few things you’ve learned on the job], which I will take with me throughout my career.
During my last two weeks, I will make every attempt to wrap up my duties and train other team members. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to aid during the transition.
I wish you all continued success, and I hope to stay in touch in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
- Set up a time to talk with your supervisor. This can be a regular check-in time or something that stands alone. It doesn’t need to be very long—half an hour is more than enough. If you have a regular meeting already, plan to start things off with your resignation so you don’t have to pretend to take in feedback or advice about other things.
- Plan out what you’re going to say. You can even job down some points for yourself that you don’t get derailed. Simple is best: “I wanted to let you know that I’m formally handing in my notice today. My last day will be [date]. Thank you for [something specific if there is anything—otherwise, skip this line].”
- Send or hand in the formal notice. You may need to send it to a couple of people and possibly HR. Ask if you’re not sure.
- Start saying your goodbyes to the people you will miss or would like to stay in touch with. Give them your contact info and plan something with the people you want to maintain contact with. This is important not just so you will continue to have each other as references moving forward but also because these are the people who kept you sane during the challenging times!
And that’s it! You don’t need to justify anything or tell anyone why you’re leaving or where you’re going. (Make an exception for anyone you’re close to, obviously.) You don’t have to give a ton of feedback in your HR exit interview and you definitely don’t need to volunteer to be available for questions your replacement has. Enjoy your newfound freedom!
