It’s also important to observe the appropriate guidelines for your resignation letter. These include using a business letter format and a standard font, such as Arial or Times New Roman. Here’s what to include in a resignation letter, what not to include, and templates and samples of resignation letters and email messages.
Elements to Include in a Resignation Letter
The fact that you’re resigning.The date of your last day on the job. (Generally, it’s best to pick a day that’s at least two weeks from the date of your resignation.)A general thank-you to your soon-to-be former boss for the opportunity to work at their company.
Optional Points to Include
A more specific thank-you. For example, you might mention a useful skill you learned during your time at the company or a project you particularly enjoyed. If you’ll miss the people you worked with, it’s always nice to say so.An offer to help with the transition. For example, you might offer to train your replacement.
Elements to Exclude
Anything negative. Resignation letters serve one important purpose: to set an end date for your employment with the company. They may also serve to strengthen your networking connection to your soon-to-be former boss by leaving a good final impression, but they are not ever a good way to achieve emotional closure with a job. Too much detail. You can provide more information about your duties, clients, and projects if and when your boss asks for it. Don’t clutter up this particular message with extraneous details.
Resignation Letter Format
The following resignation letter format will show you what to write in your letter of resignation. Your Contact InformationFirst Name Last NameAddressCity, State Zip CodePhone NumberEmail Address Date Employer Contact InformationNameTitleOrganizationAddressCity, State Zip Code SalutationDear Mr./Ms. Last Name, First ParagraphYour letter should say that you are resigning and state when your resignation will be effective. Middle ParagraphThe next (optional) section of your resignation letter should thank your employer for the opportunities you have had during your time with their company. Final ParagraphConclude your resignation letter (also optional) by offering to assist with the transition. CloseRespectfully yours, SignatureHandwritten Signature (typed letter) Typed Signature
Email Resignation Message Format
When you’re resigning via email, include your contact information after your signature instead of at the top of the letter. Include your name and the word “resignation” in the subject line, so that you can be sure your message will be opened. Subject: Resignation - Your Name SalutationDear Mr./Ms. Last Name, First ParagraphYour email should say that you are resigning and state when your resignation will be effective. Second ParagraphThe next (optional) section of the message should thank your employer for the opportunities you have had during your employment with the company. Final ParagraphConclude your resignation letter (optional) by offering to assist with the transition. ClosingRespectfully yours, SignatureInclude your contact information. Your NameEmailPhoneAddressCity, State Zip
Resignation Letter Template
This is a resignation letter example. Download the resignation letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.
Tips for Turning in Your Resignation
Give at least two weeks’ notice, if you can—but don’t feel obligated to give more than that. Also, prepare for the possibility that you’ll be asked to leave immediately. It’s not common, but some employers will ask workers to leave ASAP after they resign, so make your financial plans accordingly. Find out about any employee benefits to which you might be entitled before your last day. Ask about unused sick time or vacation time, and get information about your 401(k) and any stock options that might have accrued during your tenure. If you can, ask for a letter of recommendation from your former boss and coworkers who might have positive things to say about your work. Now is also a good time to ask for endorsements and recommendations on LinkedIn and other social media, when you’re still fresh in your team’s mind.
November 8, 2021 Mr. Jason GonzalezManagerABC Corp987 Main StreetMiddleburg, MA 02100 Dear Mr. Gonzalez, I’m writing today to give my resignation and let you know that my last day with ABC Corp will be November 19, 2021. I’ve enjoyed my time here at the company immensely and will miss working with the team. I’m so grateful to have had the chance to work with you all, and I know the skills I’ve learned over the past five years will serve me well in my new adventure. Please let me know what I can do to ease the transition. I’m happy to help train my replacement, and can also provide a quick cheat sheet to the client list for anyone who’s taking over my duties on a temporary basis. Thanks again for everything. Best, Signature (hard copy letter) Jane Roberts Include Essential Elements: These include your last date at your current job and your thanks. Consider Optional Elements: For example, you may offer to help with the transition. Avoid Offering Too Much Information: You don’t need to get into detail about why you’re leaving your job.
