Are you thinking of leaving your current job, but unsure how to approach this whole resignation thing? You've probably realized that resignation letters are one of your last chances to make an impression. They really matter for future references and professional relationships.
Different situations call for different approaches. You might be leaving on good terms, facing a toxic workplace, departing with minimal notice, handling family emergencies, or something else entirely. The right resignation letter maintains bridges instead of burning them.
When writing yours, keep it concise, express gratitude, provide clear timing, and offer assistance during transition. In this article you'll explore 10 resignation letter examples that will help you write the suitable one for your situation. (These examples contain random generated names, places, and phone number).
Short Resignation Letters
A simple resignation letter gets the job done in the most efficient way when you want to resign quietly. These short formats work well when leaving under good circumstances and not needing to explain a complex situation. Even though they are short, they maintain professionalism and still inform the employer of your plans to depart.
1. Basic Short Resignation Letter
Dear Mr. Rivera,
I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as a Marketing Coordinator.
My last day will be April 4, allowing us two weeks to transition matters.
I have really enjoyed my working experience here for the past three years. You have been a lovely boss,
and I have learned so much. The only reason I'm leaving is that I found an opportunity that is a better
fit for my next steps.
I'm happy to help train whoever takes over or write up notes on my projects before I go.
Thanks for everything,
Taylor
2. One-Week Notice Resignation Letter
Dear Ms. Chen,
I need to let you know that I'm quitting my job at Global Connect.
My last day will be next Friday, March 21.
Sorry for the short notice. An opportunity came up suddenly that I couldn't turn down,
and they need me to start right away. I know this isn't ideal timing, so I can stay late
this week to help wrap things up.
I've really liked working with everyone here and appreciate all I've learned on the
customer service team.
Take care,
Alex
Long Resignation Letters
A longer resignation letter can help you portray a lasting good impression and is great for instances when you need to elaborate on your departure. These formats let you appreciate the company, make any required explanations for your departure, and let the company know how you will support the transition.
1. Detailed Resignation Letter with Gratitude
Dear Mr. Washington,
I am to inform you that I shall be resigning my position of Project Manager. My final working day will be April 30, which gives us about a month to sort everything out.
I can't believe it's been five years already. I have learned so much from this place, mainly from you. I clearly remember how nervous I was when you gave me the Davidson account, which really helped me grow and gain self-confidence.
I've started putting together notes on all my projects. I think Rachel might be good to take over the Harrison project since she knows the client, but I'm happy to help whoever ends up handling it. If you need me to help interview my replacement or train them, just let me know.
I'm excited about my new opportunity, but I'm going to miss this incredible team. The people here make this place special, and I've made some great friends.
Thanks for everything,
Jamie
2. Resignation Letter with Explanation
Dear Mr. Patel,
I need to let you know that I'm resigning from my position as Marketing Specialist. My last work day will be May 15.
The reason I'm leaving is that my spouse got a job offer in Denver that was too good to pass up, so we're moving there next month. This was a tough decision because I've really enjoyed my three years here and have learned so much from working with you.
I'll make sure to finish up the spring campaign before I go and will leave detailed notes about all my projects. I'm also happy to help find and train whoever takes over my role.
I am inexpressibly thankful for all the chances you've given me. The greatest was when you allowed me to lead the overhaul of social media last year. I cannot believe how much progress I've made, thanks to your guidance.
Let's definitely keep in touch. I wish you and everyone at Creative Marketing Partners nothing but the best.
Take care,
Richard
Immediate Resignation Letters
Sometimes life throws curveballs, and you need to leave your job right away. These resignation letters enable you to exit fast while being as professional as possible. Let's see the examples:
1. Immediate Resignation Due to Personal Reasons
Dear Ms. Rodriguez,
I regret to do this, but I need to resign from my sales position effective immediately.
My husband had a serious accident yesterday and I need to fly home to Ohio tonight to help take care of him. The doctors say he'll need full-time support for at least a few months. I sincerely apologize for putting you in this position.
I sent the team an email with my client list and left notes about all my accounts on my desk. Feel free to call me if you need help figuring anything out - I can still answer questions for a few days while I'm getting settled back home.
Thanks for being such a great boss. I've really enjoyed working here and hate leaving like this.
All the best,
Samantha
2. Resignation Due to Workplace Issues
Dear Mr. Thompson,
I am writing to give notice that today is my last day as Administrative Assistant.
I tried to make it work, but after our conversations about the office situation, nothing has really changed. The constant last-minute demands and tension in the department are taking a toll on my health, and I need to step away.
I've put together notes on all my projects and saved them in the shared drive folder called "Admin Handover." The password log is in there too, along with the vendor contact list.
Thanks for the chance to work here. I've picked up some good skills and wish things could have worked out differently.
Take care,
Jordan
Formal Resignation Letters
If you need to resign the traditional way, these formal letters check all the professional boxes. They're perfect when you want to leave on good terms and follow proper workplace etiquette. Let's see some examples:
1. Two-Week Notice Resignation Letter
Dear Mr. Wilson,
I'd like to inform you that I am resigning from the post of Financial Analyst. My last working day in the organization shall be on Friday, March 28, which gives two weeks' standard work transition period for my work duties.
I have enjoyed working with Precision Investments and really thank you for all your great help in developing me in the position. I shall never forget how nervous I was during the first quarterly forecast presentation to the Executive Team that you asked me to deliver.
I will go through all my files and make sure my documentation is up to date before my departure. I am also ready to assist in training whoever takes over my projects - I don't want to leave you guys in a bind.
Thanks for understanding. I've enjoyed working with you and the team.
Take care,
Carey
2. Resignation Letter for Higher Studies or Career Change
Dear Ms. Park,
I wanted to notify you that I will be leaving my position as Operations Analyst. My last day with the company will be April 15th.
I've made the decision to pursue my MBA full-time starting this summer. This wasn't easy to decide where I've truly valued my time here over the past three years. The team has been supportive all these days.
The supply chain optimization project I worked on last fall really opened my eyes to what I'm passionate about. It's actually what inspired me to focus on operations management in my graduate studies. I guess I have this job to thank for helping me find my path.
Before I go, I'll complete all my pending assignments and prepare comprehensive transition documents. I'm also happy to help interview or train my replacement if that would be helpful.
I'm grateful for all the guidance and opportunities you've provided me during my time here.
Thank you for understanding,
Elina
Email Resignation Letters
When face-to-face isn't possible or you need to leave a paper trail, these email resignations are perfectly acceptable. Here's how to hit the right tone whether you need something professional or casual. Also check our guide on funny email sign offs to make your email impressive.
1. Professional Email Resignation Letter
Subject: Resignation - Daniel Martinez
Dear Dr. Cooper,
I am hereby notifying you of my resignation as Research Assistant in Meridian Labs. My last working day will fall on Friday, April 11.
I've gained so much by working on the renewable energy project, and I really appreciate how you've mentored me along the way. The lab meetings where you really pushed us to think beyond the conventional approaches were particularly valuable, they have changed how I approach problem-solving.
I'll make sure all my research notes and experiment logs are properly organized before I leave. I'm also happy to help train whoever takes over my work so nothing falls through the cracks.
Thanks for everything you've taught me during my time here.
Best Regards,
Daniel
555-123-4567
2. Casual Yet Professional Email Resignation
Subject: Moving On - My Resignation
Hi Karen,
I hope all's good with you. I'm here to inform you that I've decided to resign from my job as Office Coordinator. My last working day will be April 18.
I've found a place 20 minutes drive from my new home (because the ridiculous 90-minute commute was really getting to me). As much as I love podcasts, I'm ready to get those hours of my life back.
I've really enjoyed working at Westside Dental these past two years. Our team has been amazing, and I'll definitely miss our morning coffee chats, where we solved all the world's problems in 15 minutes.
I'll update the office manual with all the little tricks I've learned and am happy to help train whoever you hire. Just let me know what else I can do to make this transition smooth.
If you got a counteroffer from your boss where he/she offer more money or perks, don't be caught off guard. While it feels good to be wanted, remember why you decided to leave in the first place. Money isn't usually the only reason people quit.
Ask yourself, does more money fix the core issues that made you look elsewhere? Will your relationship with your boss change now that they know you tried to leave?
Statistics show that most people who accept counteroffers anyhow end up leaving within a year anyway. If you do decline, be grateful and respectful. You can say "I appreciate the offer, but I've already committed to this new opportunity that aligns with my goals."
However, it's all up to you to decide to stay or leave when you get the counteroffer. If you feel the issue or the conflict can be fixed, which prompted you to leave, then it will be okay to stay. However, if you only stay for money, it will be a bad decision.
Next Steps After Resignation
After you hand over the resignation, you may have your new job lined up. Now you want to ensure that this transition from one job to the next goes as smoothly as possible.
First, notify your current boss with proper time, and offer to train whoever takes over your position.
Grab any paperwork you'll need from HR, like info about your benefits ending, what happens with your 401(k), and when you'll get your final paycheck.
Get clear on your new company's first-day details. Double-check your start date, what paperwork they need, and if there's anything you should do before showing up.
Watch out for that awkward gap between paychecks if your old job and new job have different pay schedules.
Do a bit of homework before your first day. Explore deeper into what your new company does and maybe connect with some future teammates on LinkedIn.
Try to give yourself some off days between jobs. Even a long weekend can help clear your head before starting fresh.
Clean out your work computer, and hand all the company materials on your way out.
If you haven't already secured your next position, spend time working on your resume, updating your LinkedIn page, networking in search of some new prospects, and be ready for any immediate interviews. Moreover, remember to leave on good terms because the business world is smaller than you think. Always maintain your professional network, which is worthwhile.
Wrapping Up
Leaving a job isn't easy, but how you exit matters. A good resignation letter ensures you leave well and have an open door to new possibilities that may come your way. You can customize any of the discussed resignation letter samples for your use. Say goodbye and thank your employer for everything. Keep your head high, since the next chapter is awaiting you.
FAQs
Q1: Can I take back my resignation if I change my mind?
It all depends on your employer. There are a few companies that allow you to stay if you withdraw your resignation quickly. However, some have already gotten their ball rolling with the hiring process. You’d better consult your boss as soon as possible, if you are reconsidering.
Q2: Is it okay to resign via email instead of a formal letter?
Resigning via email is acceptable if your company allows you to do so. Email resignations are best recommended for remote jobs and urgent scenarios. Just remain professional and be prepared to follow up if necessary.
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