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?