Resigning from your current position can be stressful and at times emotional. Prior to resignation there are a few points to consider and some preparation is required.

Always resign in person. Be calm and respectful.

Inform your manager of your resignation before your co-workers or anyone else
Always resign in writing as well. Handing your boss a resignation letter is the most professional solution and is an effective way to handle an uncomfortable situation.

Prepare your resignation letter thoroughly. To inform your employer the exact day-month-year of departure, in order to start your new position. Avoid including anything about the new job opportunity in the letter. Exclude all negative comments concerning your current job, or why you are leaving. Remember your letter will be kept in your employee file, and may well be viewed by managers and board members in the future. It is in your best interest to leave a favorable impression of professionalism on those influential people.

Some business’s policies are to let an employee go immediately upon resignation.
Never put all your eggs in one basket, for example: saying “I'll never work in this place again." You may well find your career path leads someday back to this company or a partner of this company. By making those negative statements, you can ruin options for the future.

In the exit interview, stay positive. Avoid all temptations to disclose diminishing facts about your boss and the company. It will not help anyone, and it is unlikely to evoke positive change to the employer. When leaving, you must focus on your reputation and future.

Be appreciative, of the skills you’ve learned, the invaluable contacts you have acquired. Express your appreciation to your Manager, your staff and with the ones you worked closely.

Points to consider when writing your resignation letter:

• It is formal and will become a part of your permanent record so make sure it is professional and well mannered. Avoid criticising your old Boss and colleagues.
• Your typewritten letter should be brief.
• Should contain an unambiguous statement of resignation.
• A cooperative statement expressing your enthusiasm to help during the transition period proceeding to your last day of work.
• It relieves the pressure of finding a slot in your Boss’s diary to discuss resigning and also of having to speak first.
• Think about how much notice you should give. On average, people give 2-4 weeks depending on their level of responsibility. The company will survive without you and the sooner you can start with your new employers the better.
• Do not go into details of your new offer, especially financial as this may prompt a counter offer which should be avoided. Read “Dealing with a Counter-Offer”.