Resignations are not easy for anyone involved, but they can be even harder if you're not prepared. Here are 5 tips to ensure you resign in an amicable, respectful, and effective manner.
1. Have the conversation with the right person
The fastest way to lose credibility is for your manager to learn your resignation news through the water cooler conversations. In all situations, your direct manager should be the first person to know, so once your decision is made.
2. Lock in a meeting with your manager
A scheduled meeting will ensure you are both 100% focused on the news, and not distracted by other things. It will also give you the opportunity to discuss the reasons for your decision so your manager understands your rationale, but don't say more than you have to. Be polite, direct, and concise when delivering your resignation, but remember it is very rarely a one-sided conversation.
3. Be prepared for a discussion
Chances are, your manager will be keen to find out if there is anything that can be done to change your mind so be ready for a discussion. Try to stick to the facts and remove emotion from the conversation.
4. Be sure of your decision to move on - could you be persuaded to stay?
Prior to the meeting, you need to know if staying is an option - with the right counter-offer, would you retract your resignation? If you're leaving because of salary, increased benefits, or a promotion, you need to know your walkaway point. But, assess this carefully. Often, the reasons for leaving are deeper than just money so don't let your real reasons become overshadowed by a counter-offer.
5. Know your notice period and be prepared to honour it
You always want to leave under the best possible terms, so make sure you fulfill all of your responsibilities before departing - this includes working out your contractual notice period, which in most instances is 4 weeks. During your notice period, it is essential you continue to work to your full potential, as this is the last memory the business will have of you. Take the time to personally thank other key employees you have worked closely with - you never know when your career paths will cross again.
Resigning in an appropriate, careful and considerate way, will ensure you don't burn bridges.
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