9 Tips to Resign Gracefully

sxc.hu: stroinski

The process of resigning from a job is not so straightforward as it seems. There are miles to go after you decide to put down your papers. A graceful resignation will show off your true value as a professional. Read on for tips to end things on a good note.

1. Make up your mind

Don’t be vacillating between what you want to do and what you do not. Be clear and sure of what you’re doing and if you’ve decided to quit the job, stay firm on this decision. The worst thing you can do is giving your resignation and withdrawing it a few days later. It clearly shows lack of judgment on your part.

2. Have a one-on-one conversation with your manager

Now that you have decided to leave the job, there’s no use crying over petty issues. You should have aimed at sorting out your problems if you were still deciding. But now that you have made up your mind already, simply inform the manager about your decision. Do not fret over company policies or other concerns that you might have.

3. State a clear and precise reason

You could simply state that you were looking for a career change or a post graduation. Give a safe excuse and do not beat around the bush. Also remember that this is not the right time to negotiate for a pay hike or a promotion as your decision has already been made.

4. Write a formal resignation letter

The letter should precisely state that you are discontinuing the job and a brief reason for doing so. Don’t write lengthy stories or your problems in the letter. You could write a line or 2 about your happiness to have worked with the company till then, though that’s optional.

5. Serve your notice period diligently

This is where most job hunters go wrong. Make sure you serve the required time frame till your company arranges for your replacement. Make it a point to work to your optimum in this period. Don’t be unconcerned in spite of the fact that this is not the company you are going to be working with henceforth.