How to write a resignation letter
You accepted a job offer. Congratulations! Moving in a new direction inevitably means you are closing chapters too. Maybe you were recruited or had been job searching for some time. Either way, "breaking up" is always hard, even if you are happy with what is ahead. It is not about what you are leaving behind but what you are moving toward. Keeping this framework in mind will ensure your letter is positive and professional.
Beginning: Nuts and Bolts
While "I quit" gets the message across in two short words, we recommend expanding slightly without tiptoeing, sugarcoating or creating confusion. Start with the point of the letter: you are quitting this role, with this company, on this date. While you probably shared your reasons for leaving with your boss, you don’t need to describe them here.
Middle: Gratitude
The body of your letter should be where you thank your employer for the opportunity, sharing where you began, the key growth opportunities you learned from and enjoyed, and the promotions that allowed you to provide more value to the company. Share what you enjoyed even if you are already packed and ready to never sign on to another webex meeting again.
Remember—your colleagues may be the people you need to call upon for a reference. Leaving on a professional and positive note will give them a great last impression.
Ending: Passing the Baton
This is where you write your duties and how you plan to complete or pass them off. It should be clear and followed through. Don't slack off on your final two weeks. If possible, negotiate some time off before your start date so you can really give your last two weeks your all.
Example letter:
Dear Mrs. Rebecca Jons,
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as Tax Manager with Deloitte. My last day will be Friday, September 23rd.
I received an offer to serve as a Senior Tax Manager in the manufacturing and mining industry, and after careful consideration, I’m excited to explore this new opportunity in my career path.
My eight years with Deloitte gave me incredible opportunities for which I am so grateful. It is hard to believe that I was a green Tax Analyst when I began in 2014, to now managing 14 staff and leading seminars on VAT tax. I have greatly appreciated the numerous mentorship and skill development opportunities I've had with the Chicago team and colleagues. I’ve learned so much about indirect tax as well as a thorough understanding of business itself, which I will certainly take with me throughout my career.
I am committed to wrapping up my duties and projects over the next two weeks. I'd like to train ______ and _______ over the next two weeks to bring the _____ project to the finish line. Below is a summary of my current engagements and % completion:
Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help during this transition.
I wish the company continued success, and I hope to stay in touch in the future.
Kind regards,
Meghan