However tempted you may be, avoid the one finger Salute! There are right and wrong ways to resign, as with everything else in life and getting it wrong can impact your career. Following these guidelines will help ensure that things go as smoothly as possible.
Don't hand in your notice when you are angry or upset
Don't feel obliged to provide specific reasons for your resignation
Do write a simple letter stating the date from which your notice period will begin
Don't tell everyone else before you tell your boss
Inform your boss face-to-face and don't labour on negative points about the company or the job
Don't feel obliged to tell your boss where you are going. It is your choice whether you disclose this information
Do be co-operative if you are required to help with a hand-over period
Do try to make sure your work is up to date and organised before you leave
Do think about what you will say if your boss makes you a counter offer
Do try to leave on good terms. A good reference is vital.
If you are having reservations about resigning or just need someone to talk to about the best approach, please do not hesitate to call IC Resourcing Ltd. For some people this is one of the hardest parts of the job search process and it is not unusual to feel mixed emotions.
It can help to talk about it, so give us a call on 0845 121 4250.