How To Write A Resignation Email (With Examples)
We’ve all been there - you found a better opportunity at another company or you’re looking to change careers, either way, you’re quitting your job and you need to send your boss that dreaded resignation email. What causes even more anxiety is actually having to write the email.
Deciding to leave a job can be challenging, and writing the ideal resignation email can be difficult. When announcing your intention to depart from the organization, you should do so in a respectful and professional manner. Don’t be a grouch on your way out.
By following the tips in this article, you can write a professional and polite resignation email that stands you in good stead with your company.
Keep It Short And To The Point
Your resignation email should be succinct and direct. Start with a good introduction, include the date of your last day of employment and mention that you are quitting your position. Refrain from going into too much detail about your choice.
Remember that your email might be shared with other employees, so it’s best not to criticize the business or your coworkers. The last thing you want is to have bad blood between you and your soon-to-be former colleagues.
Express Gratitude
It is a good idea to express your gratitude towards the organization. Thank your employer for giving you the chance to work for them and for the valuable experience you gained.
You may also want to mention any particular coworkers or managers that had a positive impact on your experience with the organization.
Offer To Help With The Transition
A good way to make the transition smoother for the company is by offering to assist with the changeover. Tell them that you are willing to help train your replacement. Also, mention that you will complete any unfinished business before you leave.
This shows that you want to leave the company in good standing and that you value the relationships you have built during your time there. Your employer will love you for it and might even leave the back door open for you, should you decide to return somewhere down the line.
Provide Your Contact Info
If it's important for your employer to stay in touch with you after you depart, make sure to provide your contact details. This can be your home phone number, email address, or LinkedIn profile.
Doing this will ensure you retain business ties with the company, which is always good for networking purposes. You might also offer to stay linked with coworkers on LinkedIn. In my experience, this is good for maintaining your network of professional contacts, because you never know when you might need them in future situations.
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Edit And Proofread
Before sending the email, it's important to proofread it. Check for typos and grammatical errors. You also want to make sure that you spelt everyone’s name right, this is no time to be making enemies over a misplaced letter or two. A well-written email makes a good impression on employers, and mistakes can affect your professionalism.
Don’t forget to check your employer's email address and CC/BCC recipients. You don’t want your spectacularly-written resignation email to end up with Maggie down in accounting for no reason.
Examples
Now for the juicy part of this post - the examples.
Below, is a list of three examples of good, professional resignation emails. All you have to do is add the details relevant to your situation before sending it.
Example 1:
Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date of Last Day]. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to work with [Company Name]. I enjoyed my time here and I am grateful for the experience I gained while on the job. I appreciate the support and guidance I received from my colleagues and supervisors, and I appreciate all you’ve done for me.
Please let me know how I can assist the company before my departure. I am willing to help train my replacement or finish any outstanding projects to ensure a smooth transition. I have provided my contact information below, and I am happy to stay connected with colleagues on LinkedIn.
Thank you, once again, for the opportunity to work with [Company Name]. I wish the company continued success in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Example 2:
Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I have decided to resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date of Last Day].
I want to express my appreciation for the opportunities and experiences I gained during my time with [Company Name]. It has been a pleasure to work with such a talented and supportive team, and I am grateful for the professional relationships I have built during my time here.
Please let me know if there is anything I can do to make the transition as smooth as possible. I am happy to assist with training my replacement and completing any outstanding projects.
Let me know if you require any further information. Thank you again for everything. I wish [Company Name] continued success in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Example 3:
Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I have decided to resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date of Last Day].
I want to thank the entire team for the support and guidance you have provided me during my time at [Company Name]. I have learned so much and grown both personally and professionally. I am eternally grateful for the opportunities I was afforded here.
I am committed to making the transition as smooth as possible. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do to help with the handover or to ensure that my departure does not cause any disruptions to the team.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my best wishes to you and the rest of the team at [Company Name]. I am confident that the company will continue to thrive and succeed in the future.
Thank you again for everything.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
In Conclusion
Handing in your resignation can be a difficult and stressful decision, but no one wants to stay in a job when it’s not worth it anymore. It will become necessary to resign at some point and when you do, it’s important to leave on a positive note. A well-written resignation email will ensure that you preserve professional ties and leave a favorable image with your company.
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