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How To Handle Your Resignation

Resigning form a position is one of the most difficult aspects of the job search process and one that often gets the least amount of attention. The first time I needed to resign, I stood up and sat back down about five times before I had the courage to walk into the managers office and give my two weeks notice. In order to help you avoid the same overpowering anxiety involved in your first resignation, I've compiled the following tips to guide you through the process.

Be Prepared: The anxiety involved in resigning can be mitigated with proper preparation. The first step is to prepare a short resignation letter to offer to your manager at the conclusion of the meeting. The key to an effective letter is to keep it on point and to express your appreciation for the opportunity that you had with the company. This is not the place to document all that was wrong with the position. The following links will provide you with some general examples of effective resignation letter.

Samples

Graphic Resources & Associates - Sample Resignation Letter

Quest Enterprises LTD - Sample Resignation Letter

Resign with Dignity - As with your letter, your initial face to face discussion with your manager should be brief. Express your appreciation for the opportunity and explain that you have found a position that is more appropriate to your future career goals. Keep this meeting positive! On a personal note, I have found it best to have this meeting first thing in the morning. In that way, you will not be sitting at your desk all day dreading the meeting.

Expect A Reaction - Your manager will probably be very surprised by your decision to leave and may even take it personally. It is important to stick with your prepared comments and not get flustered. Always keep the focus of the meeting on the positive experience you have had with the company and your desire to maintain your professional contacts.

This Is Your Last Impression - This meeting and the few weeks that follow it will form the main impression that your manager will maintain about your experience with the company. Stress to your manager that you will complete or manage the transition of any projects with which you are currently involved. 

The Counter-Offer - It is possible that your manager will present you with a counter-offer to remain with the company. It is important to be clear about your reasons for seeking a new position in the first place. Does the counter-offer address all of these reasons? What action will you have to take to get ahead next time? Will your manager become suspicious of your loyalty if you accept the counter-offer? The answer to these questions will generally lead to you rejecting the counter-offer, but you should at least give it some consideration.

Other Resources:

I-resign.com - A very comprehensive site about the many aspects involved in the resignation process.

WorkTree.com - Great articles about many aspects of your job search. This page provides samples of resignation letters.

SeekingSuccess.com - A very comprehensive career management site. This page provides general advice on the resignation process.

If you're reading this article then perhaps I should say, "Congratulations on your new position!"