Planning to resign from your job? How you do it can impact your reputation, future opportunities, and professional relationships.
There are many reasons why people choose to resign. Common causes include bad management, lack of career progression, low pay, and workplace stress. Sometimes, it simply comes down to needing a new challenge and being ready to move on to pastures new.
Whatever the reason, before you can start your next chapter, you need to resign properly. In this blog, we will break down when the right time is, the resignation process, what if they offer a counteroffer offer and more.
Know When It’s Time to Resign from a Job
Before anything else, be certain about your decision to resign. Take some time to think about your reasons for leaving. Are you looking for career growth? Is your current job misaligned with your goals or values? Or maybe a new company has offered you a role that better fits your skills and aspirations.
Understanding your “why” will not only make your resignation easier, but it will also help you answer questions during your exit interview and avoid second-guessing.
Common reasons people resign:
- Lack of advancement or growth.
- Better pay or benefits elsewhere
- Toxic workplace or poor leadership
- Relocation or personal obligations
- Career change or education
The most common reason for resignation, found by a recent study, is that 82% of people would leave if there was a lack of advancement or career growth. If you’re still unsure, checking your employment contract and benefits might clarify your decision.
Steps for resigning
1. Check Your Contract of Employment Before You Resign
Always review your contract of employment before you submit your resignation. This document will spell out your notice period, whether you can resign immediately, and your obligations regarding company property or non-compete clauses.
Failing to follow the terms of your contract can put you at risk both professionally and legally.
Key things to confirm:
- How many weeks’ notice you must give
- Whether resignation must be in writing
- If unused vacation must be paid out
- Your last day of your notice period
- Clauses related to confidentiality or future employment
Get Your Job Offer in Writing Before
Before you submit your resignation, always request your new job offer in writing. Having the offer documented ensures the details are clear and legally binding. Once you receive the written offer, respond with a formal acceptance and wait for confirmation of receipt. Only after this confirmation should you proceed to give your current employer your notice. This step protects you from resigning prematurely and safeguards your next career move.
3. Write a Professional Resignation Letter
When you’re ready to resign, the next step is to write a resignation letter that is polite, professional, and clear. Even if you’re resigning in person, follow up with a resignation in writing, either by letter or email, to ensure there’s a formal notification.
What to include:
- A clear statement: “Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation.”
- Your job title and company name
- Your last day of work
- A brief thank you to your employer for the opportunity
- An offer to help during your notice period
Keep it short and to the point. This is not the time to explain all your reasons for leaving. Save that for the exit interview if needed with hr.
4. Give Adequate Notice and Work Through It Gracefully
Your notice period is your final chance to leave on good terms. Give your employer the full notice required, and avoid resigning immediately unless absolutely necessary.
Working your notice period with a positive attitude shows integrity. It can also protect future opportunities and preserve your relationship with your employer.
Some employers may offer to let you leave early or even persuade you to stay. Be clear and professional, especially if you’ve already accepted a job offer.
5. Communicate Professionally with HR and Management
After submitting your resignation, speak directly with your manager or HR. Be professional and polite. Be prepared for questions about your reasons behind your decision, and don’t let emotions take over.
Avoid venting or criticising the company, even if you had a negative experience. Your words could follow you long after your last day of work.
What to say when resigning in person:
- Express gratitude for the opportunity to work there
- State your intention to resign clearly
- Share your desire to ensure a smooth transition
- Thank them for the experiences and growth
6. Plan Your Handover and Help with the Transition
A smooth transition helps your team your leaving out but it also shows your professionalism. Offer to help train your replacement or document processes during your notice period.
Preparing a clear handover shows that you’re committed to doing the right thing until your final day.
Include:
- Status of current projects
- Key contacts and deadlines
- Login details or credentials (if permitted)
- Notes on active client or internal issues
Your employer may appreciate your effort and remember it later when you’re asking for a reference.
7. Attend the Exit Interview
Most companies request an exit interview before your last day of work. This is your opportunity to provide feedback, but be careful with your words.
Keep it positive and professional, even if you’re leaving in the first place due to challenges. Focus on facts, not emotions, and express your appreciation for the time spent at the company.
Use this time to:
- Clarify your final paycheck details
- Ask about benefits or unused vacation
- Return any company property
- Confirm the date of your last day
What if they ask me to stay?
If you’re given a counteroffer, take the time to weigh it carefully. It can be tempting to stay where you’re comfortable, but don’t lose sight of the reasons you wanted to leave in the first place. Consider all your options objectively and aim to make a decision within a reasonable timeframe. While you shouldn’t feel pressured, it’s important to communicate your choice promptly. If you decide to stay, inform the prospective employer as soon as possible.
How Mexa Solutions Can help
At Mexa Solutions, we specialise in connecting ambitious professionals with meaningful career opportunities. Whether you’re exploring a new role or preparing to resign from your current position, our expert consultants provide guidance at every stage of the transition.
We work closely with you to understand your goals, match you with roles that align with your skills and values, and offer tailored support from CV advice to help with job searching. With deep industry knowledge and a people-first approach, Mexa Solutions helps ensure your next move is the right one, both professionally and personally.
Resigning Professionally Leaves Doors Open
How you resign can shape how your career continues. Whether you’re leaving to chase new goals or stepping away for personal reasons, resigning professionally is a smart move.
Follow these key steps: check your contract, give adequate notice, write a professional resignation letter, offer help during the transition, and keep communication respectful. These actions protect your reputation and help you resign without burning bridges.
Remember, leaving your job the right way opens the door to new career growth, stronger references, and a professional legacy worth being proud of.
FAQ’s
What should I include when writing my resignation letter?
When writing your resignation letter, keep it clear and professional. Include your job title, your intention to resign, the date of your last working day, and a brief thank you for the opportunity. Avoid going into too much detail about your reasons for leaving.
Why is it important to be professional when resigning?
It’s important to be professional when resigning because it protects your reputation, maintains a positive relationship with your employer, and ensures you leave on good terms. A professional exit reflects well on you and can support future opportunities.
Do I have to give a full week’s notice?
In most cases, yes. Check your employment contract to confirm your required notice period. A week’s notice is common for junior roles, but more senior positions may require more time. Giving proper notice shows respect and helps ensure a smooth handover.
This blog was written by Bob Bath, Director and Founder of Mexa Solutions
