How to Write a Basic Resignation Letter Using a Template

Need to resign? Use this basic resignation letter template to craft a polite and appropriate resignation letter. Learn the important elements of a resignation letter and get started today.

Resignation Letter Template | Your Last Impression

Are you ready to resign and require a resignation letter to be composed? Have you thought about your options? Have you got your next job lined up? 

If you are still sitting on the fence it would be worthwhile speaking to a career counsellor to ensure you are confident with your decision and you are well prepared for your resignation.

Ending your employment without gaining your next job is highly advised against. According to research (source), it can take one month for every $10,000 of annual income to secure your next position. Therefore, if you are going for a $100,000 job, it will take you 10 months. Knowing this, if you are ready to jump ship now, book a career counselling session to make the next 6+ months bearable!

According to Glassdoor, you have a 2% chance of getting an interview for every job you apply for! Here at The Perfect Resume, we have a 76% success rate of clients getting an interview within six months. That is an increased chance of 74% however, getting an interview isn't your only hurdle. You then need to get the job! 

If you are within the 2% and lucky enough to get an interview, you then generally have a 1 in 10 (10%) chance of securing the job. Your chances are better if you engage in The Perfect Resume for a resume update, interview preparation, career counselling etc. After all, first impressions count, and your resume does that for you. You want a Halo Effect to be evident before you shake your next employer's hand! If you achieve that, you are in with an excellent chance!

If you are 100% sure you are ready to resign, it is time to send your formal resignation letter! See some advice below. 

Often your resignation letter will be one of the last opportunities to thank your organisation for the professional development they have provided you. It is also an opportunity to open up a dialogue with your employer to explain the reasons why you are leaving.

A carefully crafted resignation letter template can take the guesswork out of the situation for you. Even if you feel bitter towards the company, you don't want to close the door completely. Some industries are extremely small and your boss in the job you need to resign from may become one of your biggest stakeholders at the next job. Whether you need to provide one day's notice, two weeks or a month, your last impression can be one of gratitude. 

Remember, your formal exit needs to be professional and formal. Don't send a text message when you are under the influence of alcohol! Your resignation letter may be used as a legal document if the company finds you in breach of contract etc. 

Too many people stick to a standard letter. To whom it may concern, I'm leaving, this is my last date, thank you, kind regards, John.

Your resignation letter can be an opportunity to open up dialogue. It can highlight the challenges you faced as an employee. It can also be an opportunity to provide your employee with some insight into their leadership style. 

Inspire some thought on what information you would like to incorporate, but do it professionally, diplomatically and genuinely. 

See some (standard) examples below:

Formal resignation letter

The National Corporation 4th March 2019 Dear John Smith - Regional Manager, Re: Formal resignation Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation as the National Corporation - Regional Team Leader. My last date of work will be effective COB 18 March 2019.  It is with excitement that I have the opportunity to extend my skills within a new company, however, it is bittersweet. I have valued the time and effort spent and I wish to take this opportunity to thank you for your guidance and support provided over the course of my tenure.  I am eager to make this transition as smooth as practicable and look forward to seeing The National Corporate succeed in the future. If there is anything, I can do to support the team, please let me know.  Kind regards Melissa Peacock

Click here to download your blank formal resignation letter template. 

Retirement resignation letter

The National Corporation 4th March 2019 Dear John Smith - Regional Manager, Re: Notice of retirement, Please accept this letter as formal notice of my retirement from the National Corporation - Regional Team Leader position. My last date of work will be effective COB 18 March 2019.  It is with excitement that I embark on the next chapter of my life, however, it is bittersweet. I have valued working at The National Corporation and wish to take this opportunity to thank you for your guidance and support provided over the course of my tenure.  I am eager to make this transition as smooth as practicable. If there is anything I can do to support the team, please let me know.  I look forward to seeing The National Corporate exceed into the future. Kind regards Melissa Peacock

 

Click here to download your notice of retirement blank template. 

If you would like to learn more about changing your career and considering engaging in some career counselling sessions, click here to learn more.