A Letter of Resignation: How to Write

At some point, you'll have to resign and leave work at your own will. To avoid burning professional bridges, you'll want to leave with grace. This is accomplished with the resignation letter. To perform a soft resignation, use the appropriate form for business letters. Be brief, polite and positive - you may need the employer as a reference in the future. Follow these tips for a more effective resignation letter.

Be very sure you want to leave your job before submitting a letter of resignation. Once you submit cannot be withdrawn.

Consider all your options before you write a resignation letter. Could your employer offer you something that might make you want to stay? Maybe you should talk to your employer of your dissatisfaction or best offer it received before making a permanent decision.



Write your letter on a computer or typewriter. Handwritten letters are not so professional. Although you are leaving the job, you should care what the letter sounds, as he will stay on your file and may refer to other potential employers.

Present your letter with proper use of business letter format with your name and address, date and name of employer and address on the top.


Address the letter to your supervisor.

State the reason for resigning and give the date of the resignation letter to make it more effective. Enter the date of resignation; for example, indicate whether you are giving two weeks notice or if you resign immediately.

Thank your employer for the opportunities he or she is always had and indicate that he is grateful to the company. Although you cannot feel that this is the case, I do not make enemies. You may need this person to give a recommendation at a later date. While a statement thanking the employer should be in many cases can not be in your best interest if you intend to pursue any claim against your employer. If you plan on achieving a lawsuit against your employer, your resignation letter need only indicate the effective date of your resignation.

Refrain from explaining why you go, why your hated your job, which you can work, how much is paid, so say you're willing to help with the transition because of your resignation.

Sign the letter ''Sincerely'' or in some other manner, and sign your name.

Seal the letter in an envelope addressed to your supervisor, and then give him or her, or have it delivered. If your employer has a human resources department, copy the human resources department in the letter.

Expect your supervisor to speak with you about your decision. Be polite and do not use this as an excuse to vent, try to leave on amicable terms.