How To Write A Resignation Letter That Gets You Noticed [2024]

A well-written resignation letter is more than just a formality. It’s an opportunity to leave a positive lasting impression on your employer, express your gratitude for the opportunity, and potentially even strengthen relationships with colleagues.

In this guide, I will guide you “how to write a resignation letter” process step-by-step, providing tips and examples to ensure your letter is professional, courteous, and sets the stage for a smooth transition.

Table of Contents

How To Write A Resignation Letter: Normal Template

Here’s a resignation letter template you can use as a starting point

Your Name
Your Contact Information
[Date]

[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]

Dear [Recipient Name],

Please consider this letter my formal notice of resignation from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name]. My final day of employment will be [Your Last Day of Work].
[Optional: Briefly explain your reason for leaving, keeping it positive.]

I am happy to assist with the transition process in any way I can to ensure a smooth handover of my responsibilities.

I'm grateful for my time at [Company Name] and the skills I've gained along the way
Sincerely,

[Your Typed Name]

What to Include in Your Resignation Letter

Your resignation letter should typically include the following elements:

Your Name and Contact Information: This includes your full name, phone number, and email address.
Date: Include the date you are submitting the letter.
Recipient’s Name and Title: Address the letter to your direct supervisor or manager.
Resignation Statement: Clearly state your intent to resign from your position. You can use a phrase like “Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Your Last Day of Work].”
Last Day of Work: Mention your last day of work. Providing at least two weeks’ notice is standard professional courtesy.
Optional: Brief Explanation (Positive Only): You can optionally include a brief explanation for your resignation. Keep it positive and focus on the new opportunity or reason for leaving. Avoid bad-mouthing the company or colleagues.
Offer to Help with the Transition: Briefly express your willingness to help with the transition process to ensure a smooth handover of your responsibilities.
Gratitude: Thank your employer for the opportunity to work at the company and express your appreciation for the experience and skills you’ve gained.
Signature: Close the letter with your signature and typed name.

Pro Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter

Keep it concise and professional. For the most professional impact, keep your resignation letter to a single page
Proofread carefully. Typos and grammatical errors can give a negative impression and undermine your professionalism, make it error-free to maintain a strong reputation.
Be positive and respectful. Even if you’re not leaving on the best terms, maintain a professional tone.
Avoid burning bridges. Industries are often smaller than you think. Maintaining positive relationships may benefit you in the future.
Submit your letter electronically and in hard copy.

By following these tips and using the provided template, you can write a resignation letter that leaves a positive impression and sets you up for a successful transition to your new opportunity.

In addition to the above tips, here are some additional things to consider
Confidentiality:

If your employment contract includes a confidentiality clause, be sure to mention that you will abide by it in your resignation letter.

Benefits: If you have any questions about your benefits after your last day of work, you can mention that you will follow up with HR to discuss.
Company Property: Briefly mention that you will return any company property, such as your laptop or badge, on your last day.

Format 1: Email Resignation Letter Format

This is the most common format, especially in modern workplaces. Here’s how to structure it:

Subject Line: Clear and direct – “Resignation – [Your Name]”
Body: Follow the same template provided earlier, making minor adjustments as needed for email formatting.
Signature: Include your full name, job title, phone number, and email address.

Format 2: Short and Sweet

Useful if you’re short on time, have a good existing relationship with your manager, and don’t need to give an extensive explanation:

Dear [Manager's Name],

"I am hereby submitting my formal resignation from the position of [Your Position] at [Company Name]. My last day with the company will be [Date].

Thank you for the opportunities during my time here, and I wish you and the team continued success. It has been a pleasure working with everyone.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Format 3: Formal Resignation Letter (Printed)

This format is appropriate when your company culture or contract requires a more formal approach, and you want to submit a physical letter:

Letterhead (Optional): If available, include your company letterhead at the top. Otherwise, your name and contact information go on top.
Body: Follow the above provided template.
Handwritten Signature: Adds a personal touch.

Format 4: Career Change Focus

Use this format if you’re resigning to pursue a significant change in your career path:

Dear [Manager's Name],

Please consider this letter as my formal resignation from the position of [Your Position] at [Company Name]. My last day will be [Date].

While I've enjoyed my time at [Company Name], I've decided to pursue a new opportunity in [New Field/Industry]. This was a difficult decision, but I'm excited about this new chapter in my career.

I appreciate the experience I've gained here and the support I've received. I wish you and the team continued success during this transition. Please let me know how I can best contribute to a smooth handover of my responsibilities.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Remember: Choose the format that best suits your situation and company culture. Be sure to adjust the templates for your specific needs and to follow the tips for a professional and positive resignation letter!

I hope this comprehensive guide helps you write a resignation letter that gets you noticed for all the right reasons!