It may sound simple, but sometimes the resignation process can become quite complicated. Here are a few guidelines we at Columbia Search Partners (CSP) recommend:
Step 1: Give your Columbia Search Partners (CSP) recruiter a call to review this process before actually resigning. Your Columbia Search Partners (CSP) recruiter can review the resignation process (best times to resign, interaction techniques, etc.) with you to make it a smoother, and more efficient, transition for all parties involved.
Step 2: Read the Counteroffer Tips articles within the Resource Center section. Your Columbia Search Partners (CSP) recruiter can prepare you to properly handle any counteroffer attempts made by your employer. This will greatly reduce the stress involved in the resignation process.
Step 3: Prepare a simple “Resignation Letter” that clearly states your resignation in a very positive way. This letter will make your intentions clear and help avoid the complications of a counteroffer. For example:
Dear Mr. or Mrs. (Manager’s Name):
As of this date, I am formally extending my resignation as (your job title). I am offering two weeks’ notice so that my responsibility can be effectively serviced during the transition. My final date of employment will be on (last day of employment).
I appreciate the opportunity that has been afforded me in this position. I have enjoyed my work, and I wish you and the company well in the future.
I have given this matter serious consideration over a long period of time, and my decision, therefore, is final.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature)
Download Resignation Letter Template: Example Resignation Letter
Step 4: Prepare a simple addendum “Points of Transition” letter that serves as a quick reminder to your boss of projects that you were working on that need to be transitioned. This letter should only contain the project title and/or a few words per project that needs to be transitioned. For example:
- Team Leader for Copy Machine Consolidation Project
- Six Sigma Green Belt Project – Inventory Accuracy
Download Points of Transition Letter Template: Example Points of Transition
Step 5: Continue working to the best of your ability while you complete your notice period, which is normally two weeks. Rebuff any attempts by your employer to pressure you to stay longer. Two weeks notice is accepted as an industry-wide business standard. Keeping active and positive will dispel any concerns that you may be a negative influence on others at the company.
Step 6: Sometimes an employer will accept your resignation and ask you to leave immediately. This may be a bit distressing, but understand that a company may have good reasons for such action. First, it may be concerned that your exposure to proprietary information could jeopardize the company’s intellectual properties. Second, it may be concerned that others in the company could be influenced to follow in your footsteps. If this happens, contact your Columbia Search Partners (CSP) recruiter to work on the best next steps. Example: Your Columbia Search Partners (CSP) recruiter may coordinate to have your start date moved up, in order to avoid any disruption to your incoming cash flow.