Tips for resigning
Resigning can be terribly scary, as you know that
you are ready to move on but don't want to leave any hard feelings.
Here are some tips so that your x-boss will still sing your praises
after you have left and give you the shining references you
want!
Prepare: Think of resignation as you would a job interview. Put
time and thought into it.
- Prepare what you are going to say, in what order, and to whom.
You can do serious damage to working relationships if you tell the
wrong people first (even in confidence) and somebody influential
finds out second hand.
- Remove any material you need from your office, before
resigning.
- Prepare a written letter of resignation that is brief and to
the point, ensure you don't include any negative comments (as much
as you may want to).
Be Direct: Whether telling your boss in person or in writing,
get straight to the point. Explain that you are leaving for
whatever reasons (don't mention anything negative) and are giving
the required notice. Offer to help whoever takes your place. You
have no obligation to tell anyone what company you are joining.
Be Flexible: If you can, negotiate a finishing date that suits
your employer as well as you. Cooperate fully in handing over the
files, company property, documents, projects and clients you are
working with prior to leaving.
Be Realistic: If your resignation is coming "out of the blue,"
expect a reaction from your employer. Allow time for the reaction
to your news. If your manager becomes aggressive, confrontational
or upset, don't respond with similar behavior. Revert to your
prepared comments.
Be Diplomatic: If you think it is important to express your
negative experiences, do it face to face. Don't do it in writing.
Again, use your prepared comments rather than doing this off the
cuff.
Be Appreciative: Thank your employers for past training and
other opportunities. Thank your colleagues for what you have
learned from them. Accentuate the positives - find something good
to say.
Look After Number One: Make sure you know what you are entitled
to when you leave, such as unused holiday pay, lieu days etc.
Keep In Touch: Be proactive about keeping in touch with the
valuable contacts and friends you have developed in this role.
Dealing With A Counter-offer: You may receive a counter-offer.
Has anything really changed? Think about the reasons you decided to
resign in the first place. Do you want to work somewhere where you
have to quit in order to get something? Given that you have already
resigned, how hard will it be to continue working in the same
company? Are they just "buying time" to find your replacement? Will
your future prospects within the company be limited?