Resigning Gracefully

Congratulations! You've landed the job! Now you are faced with the delicate challenge of resigning from your current employer without burning bridges, and saying good-bye to friends and colleagues. Here are some guidelines to help the process go smoothly:

• We'll help you draft your resignation letter, provide and plan your resignation so you can respectfully explain your decision. Click here for a sample letter.
• Your manager needs to hear that your decision is firm and final and that you are committed to your new employer. Express appreciation for the opportunities that your former employer has given you.
• Be careful not to get lured into any discussions other than your resignation, such as how your employer wants to handle your final weeks or the transition of your current responsibilities and projects. Make sure they understand you are leaving because of the opportunity you see in this new position, not for anything they did wrong.
• Always offer 2 weeks notice to provide an opportunity for a smooth transition and say that you will do whatever is necessary to ensure an orderly transition. In some situations, your employer will turn down your offer and ask you to leave the premises immediately. In either case, maintain a high degree of professionalism and remain firm in your decision. Sounding indecisive or hesitant about your decision will leave you open to many difficult challenges during your transition.
• Don't disclose the name of your new employer. It is best to describe your new employer in general terms only. Let them know that as soon as you get your feet on the ground, you will contact them.
• Don't provide details on your new compensation package . (You are not on an auction block.)
• Tell them that you will honor any non-solicitation and/or non-compete agreements.
• If they want to know what they can do to keep you there, let them know that you are leaving for an opportunity to advance your career, not for more money and that your decision is final. Accepting counteroffers is career suicide! Click here for more information.
• Be sure to speak in positive terms about the experience you had there. It is very important that you don't burn any bridges that could impact a future reference check. Click here for more information.