Ready to Move On? Here's How to Write the Perfect Resignation Letter!

by Eduyush Team

Letting go of a job can be challenging, both emotionally and logistically. Writing a professional resignation letter is essential if you're ready to take the next step in your career.

Leaving an employer on good terms is critical for maintaining relationships, references and networking opportunities that may come up down the road. Understanding how to write an effective resignation letter will be helpful in hopes of making a smooth transition into your next venture!

In this blog post, we'll discuss all the components that make up a perfect resignation letter so you can confidently move forward with enthusiasm and grace.

How to write resignation letter

When quitting a job, sending a professional resignation letter to your employer is essential. A resignation letter sets the tone for your departure and can help ease the transition for your soon-to-be former employer. It's also important to keep in mind that a resignation letter is generally your last chance to leave on good terms with your former employer, so be sure not to burn any bridges

What do you put in a resignation letter?

First, state the date of your last day of work in the letter. Next, give a brief explanation of why you are leaving the company. Remember that this is not the time or place to air grievances about your job or boss. Finally, thank your employer for the opportunity they gave you and say goodbye. If possible, leave on good terms with your former employer – they may be a reference or networking contact down the road.

What is a great simple outline for a resignation letter?

A resignation letter should be a formal document stating your intent to leave your current position. A great resignation letter should be 

  • concise and to the point, including the date of your last day of work 
  • and a brief explanation of your decision to leave
  • gratitude for the opportunity to work at the company. 
  • Offer help during the transition period.
  • Finally, your resignation letter should be cordial and professional.

What is a good subject line for an email resignation?

While the specifics of your email resignation will be unique to your situation, a few big-picture tips can help you write a compelling subject line.

First, remember that the subject line is essentially your lead - it's what lures recipients into reading the rest of your message. So make it enjoyable and attention-grabbing without being overdramatic or misleading. To that end, avoid vagueness (e.g., "I'm resigning!") or curtness (e.g., "Resignation"). Both extremes will likely do more harm than good.

Second, keep it short and sweet - no one wants to read a novel in their inbox.

What should you not add in a resignation letter?

There are a few things you should avoid adding to your resignation letter. For example, don't include negative comments about your boss or the company. Don't include anything that would make it difficult for your boss to find a replacement for you. And finally, don't give excessive notice (unless you're required to do so by contract).

Generally speaking, it's best to keep your resignation letter short. Focus on the positive aspects of your decision to leave and express gratitude for the opportunities you've been given. Thank your boss for the chance to work in the company, and wish them all the best in the future.

Do you give a resignation letter to HR or a manager?

It is best to submit a resignation letter to your manager, as they will be the person responsible for forwarding it along to HR

Your manager will likely need some time to process and announce your departure, so it's best to give them as much notice as possible. Thank them for their time and provide any assistance they may need during the transition period. Resigning in person is always the best option, but if you cannot do so, sending a resignation letter through the mail or via email is the next best thing. Remember to be concise and state the date of your last work day. And if you have any grievances, this is not the place to air them.

What should I do if my boss does not accept my resignation?

If your boss refuses to accept your resignation, you may have little choice but to stay put and continue working for them however, if you're confident that you've handed in your notice correctly and per company policy, you can always speak to HR about the situation. It's possible that your boss is simply trying to stall for time to find a replacement for you, or they may be hoping that you'll change your mind – either way, it's best to be clear and firm about your decision to leave. 

What is a good resignation email sample?

Hello {Manager name},

I am writing to let you know that I have resigned from my position at [XYZ company]. It has been an amazing experience working with such a talented and dedicated team, but I have decided that it is time for me to move on to a new adventure. 

Thank you all for your support and guidance over the past few years. I have learned so much from each of you, and I am truly grateful for the opportunities I have had here. 

I will be leaving on [date], and please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any help during the transition period. Thank you again, and best of luck in all your future endeavours.

Sincerely,[Your Name]

Read our blog for more detailed resignation letter formats.

How do I write a resignation letter asking for an early release?

Dear [Employer],

I am writing to request an early release from my current position. I have enjoyed my time at [Company Name] and appreciate all you have done for me, but I feel it is time for me to move on to new challenges. If needed, I would be happy to provide more details about my reasons for wanting an early release.

Thank you for your time and consideration, and I hope we can reach a mutually agreeable resolution.

Sincerely,[Your Name]

Conclusion:

 So, whether you’re quitting because you’ve found a new job, been downsized, or just burnt out, take the time to write a professional resignation letter. It will make your departure smoother and leave a good impression on your former employer. And if you need any help crafting the perfect letter (or navigating other aspects of your career), be sure to check out our blog for more helpful career advice.


Resignation letter Questions? Answers.

It is not uncommon to resign after only a month of working. Often, this is due to mismatched expectations or simply not being a good fit for the role. Whatever the reason for your departure, it is essential to write a resignation letter that is professional and respectful.

Here are some tips on how to write a resignation letter after only one month on the job:

1. Keep it brief. There is no need to go into great detail about why you are leaving or what led you to make this decision. Simply state that you have decided to resign from your current position, effective immediately.
2. Be respectful.Although you may be dissatisfied with your current situation
3. Don't simply state that you're resigning without giving any notice or explanation. This is unprofessional and will likely damage your relationship with your current employer.
4. Additionally, don't try to use your resignation as leverage for more money or benefits

A resignation letter for personal reasons can be difficult to write because it is a very personal and emotional topic. However, it is important to remember that you are writing to your employer, not to your friends or family.

The best way to approach this type of letter is to be direct and concise. Start by stating the reason for your resignation, being as specific as possible. Next, thank your employer for the opportunities they have provided you over the years. Finally, express your hope that things will work out well for them in the future.

Example

Dear [Employer],

I regret to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [position] with effect from [date]. This decision has been made for personal reasons which I am not at liberty to discuss. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the opportunities and experiences you have provided me during my time with the company. I wish you all the best for the future.

Sincerely,
[your name]

Furthering your education is a lofty and admirable goal and one that a resignation letter should reflect. This isn't the time to be shy or meek about your plans - be proud of what you're doing and why you're doing it! Here's an example of how you might word a resignation letter for further studies:

"Dear [Employer],

I am writing to give notice that I am resigning from my position as [job title] with immediate effect. As you know, I have been accepted into [name of educational institution] to study for my [degree/master/doctorate etc.]. This is something that I have been working towards for some time, and I am very excited about starting further studies. Thank you for the opportunity to have worked with you, and I wish you all the best in the future.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

We recommend sending a follow-up email to your boss or HR contact after submitting your resignation letter, simply requesting an update on the status of your departure.
This demonstrates that you are still interested in maintaining a positive relationship with your current employer and showing professionalism even amid a transition.
You may also want to ask what the timeline for departure is so that you can begin planning for the next step in your career.

Under most circumstances, no. Once you have tendered your resignation and your employer has accepted it, you are typically unable to rescind the decision. This is because, by resigning, you essentially agree to terminate your employment relationship with the company.

There may be some limited circumstances where you can reverse your resignation. For example, if you resign in a moment of intense anger or frustration and later regret your decision, your employer may allow you to take back your resignation. However, this is generally at the employer's discretion and will likely only be allowed if it isn't too late or disruptive for the company.

The contents of resignation letters are typically confidential, as they contain private information about the employee and the employer. However, there may be some exceptions to this rule, depending on the circumstances. For example, if an employee is resigning because of wrongful or illegal treatment by the employer, then the letter may be considered a whistleblower disclosure and may be protected under federal law.

Hello [name],

I am writing to inform you of my intention to resign from my position as [position] at TCS. My last day with the company will be [date]. Please accept this email as formal notice of my resignation.
Thank you for the opportunity to work at TCS. I have enjoyed my time here and have learned a great deal. I wish the company all the best in the future.
If there is anything I can do to aid in the transition during my final days, please let me know.


Sincerely,
[Your name]

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work at Google. It has been a privilege to be a part of such an innovative and forward-thinking company. I have enjoyed my time here and feel confident that I am leaving Google in good hands. I wish all of you the best in the future. Thank you again for everything.