Keep It Classy!

You're moving on in your career. Congratulations! Letting your employer know in a professional way enhances your reputation and supports a positive working relationship with your old boss. Never burn a bridge. Be courteous and tactful. The degree of separation in many industries is small, just a couple of people, and you may encounter your old boss again. Draft the main points of your letter in advance but wait until you have had a conversation with your manager to fine-tune the wording so that it reflects the main points of your conversation.

Your resignation letter doesn’t need to be long or complicated, but some aspects should be standard:

• Date your letter so there's written documentation of how much formal notice you have given the company.
• Address the letter to the appropriate person.
• Keep the opening paragraph short and to the point regarding your intention to resign.
• Provide the date of your last day with the company.
• Sign your letter, followed by your personal/forwarding contact information for any post-departure questions or communication.