Writing a resignation letter is a key career tool. Get it wrong and you could leave with bad feelings - you never know when your paths may cross again.
- It must be laid out as a standard business letter.
- It should never be more than one page long.
- It should be printed on a good quality paper, typically 100gsm in weight and watermarked. Ensure that the stationary used for your CV and Cover Letter are the same.
- Even if you verbally hand in your notice, you must formalise it with a letter.
- Begin as you would any other formal latter, suitably addressed and dated.
- Explain your reasons for leaving in a clear and rational way.
- Explain your intention to resign along with a brief explanation of your reasons for leaving.
- State your willingness to work your full notice period..
- If you are leaving in good circumstances then it is a good idea to thank your boss for the opportunities that they presented to you or for the experience gained whilst working for the company.
- Resist the temptation to bad mouth and let off steam..
- Handle your resignation letter like you would any business document - professionally. Make sure you leave behind a lasting positive impression of yourself.
- Keep words, sentences and paragraphs short. It is recommended that there should be no more than four or five paragraphs, or 200 words.