How to Write a Resignation Letter - Sample Letter of Resignation

Are you fed up of your current job? Got a better offer? Hate your boss? Well whatever the reasons, when you know the time has come to quit your job, the first thing to think about is the way to communicate the decision. You know that the situation is going to be uncomfortable, well but to make things easier, you can be prepared for all the discussions that are bound to follow. But for starters, you have to write that dreaded resignation letter. Writing a resignation letter can actually be a tricky business, but before that let us go over a list of things that you should do before you give in your resignation letter.

Before you hand in your Resignation letter

• Make sure you have taken the right decision. Never take hasty decisions. Weigh the pros and cons of the opportunity and take a responsible decision.
• No matter how upset you are with the management or your boss, keep you temper in control and avoid immature and unprofessional behavior. Never slam doors on anyone. No matter what profession you are in, a single bad reference from your previous employer can create a lot of trouble for you.
• If you are in two minds about the decision, talk to your family, friends or the members of HR department at work,
• Once you have decided to resign, be professional enough to communicate your decision to the supervisor or manager before you spread the word amongst your colleagues and other staff.
• Check the notice period mentioned on you employment contract or in the HR handbook. See to it that you do not resign on the spot. Although it is possible to negotiate the duration of the notice period, it is always advised that you serve your notice period and avoid inconvenience for your employer.

How to Write a Resignation Letter ?

Well now, that you’ve made up your mind to resign, and it is time to write that dreaded resignation letter, here are a few pointers that will help you while writing a resignation letter.

Be Precise
Your resignation letter should be very precise and to the point. You cannot afford to beat around the bush while you are writing an official document. Keep it short, and mention "Letter of Resignation" in the subject line of the article.

Provide Exact Date
Mention the exact time/date from when you want your resignation to be in effect. Also, make a reference to the notice period that is mentioned in your contract and assure that you will serve the notice period. In case you wish to negotiate on the notice period you can add a line regarding it.

Sound Polite
Although many people tend to fantasize about giving a piece of their mind to their managers or employers, while resigning, the wise ones never do it! No matter how discontented you are with your employer, act like a professional. Do not use any phrase or any sentence that might sound disparaging or offensive to the employer.

Provide Necessary Explanation
Make it a point to briefly mention the reason for your resignation in a line or two. An explanation or a reason for resignation indicates your politeness and professionalism and is highly valued in the corporate world.

Inform about your work status
Mention the status of the projects, or any responsibilities that were assigned to you. In case you share a good rapport with your employer, it can be gracious gesture to offer to train the person who will be replacing you. Make a separate document of pointers and important information that will be necessary for the person who will handle your job in the future and attach it with your resignation letter to make things convenient for you employer.

Be Positive
People who have enjoyed their work and have to leave their jobs for other practical reasons, can always mention how great their experience has been. Thank your employer for the opportunity that was made available to you and express your gratitude for the learning experience.

Good Resignation Letter Sample Should Contain

• Formal opening (Respected Sir/Madam)
• Accurate Subject Line (Letter of Resignation)
• Precise body text with terse sentences (Mentioning the date of resignation and notice period.)
• A sound reason/explanation for the Resignation
• A cordial closing line
• Attachment of any other documents required