Resignation Letter Template & Samples
Are you ready to move onto a new challenge? Whether it’s a step up on the career ladder or you’re taking time out to travel, you’ll need to write a professional resignation letter. It’s always best practice to inform your employer of your intention to resign, ensuring you leave on a professional and positive note.
Copy the resignation letter template below and paste into a text editing program such as Microsoft Word to get started with writing your own resignation letter.
Resignation Letter Example
[Your Name]
[Address]
[Date]
[Company name]
[Company address]
Dear [Name of Recipient],
I am writing to notify you of my formal resignation from my role as [Job Title] at [Company Name].
As my contract requires that I give [amount of time specified] my last day will be [date].
Thank you for the opportunities for professional and personal development presented to me during my time here. I’ve enjoyed working for you, and appreciate the support given during my time at the company. If there is anything I can do to help with the transition, please let me know.
Thank you.
Kind regards,
______________ (signature)
[Your Name]
What should I include in a resignation letter?
It is important to keep your resignation letter short and to the point. However, there are a few key essentials that you must include:
- Your Name
- Your Address
- Contact Information
- Salutation (Addressed to the appropriate person)
- Date of Resignation
- Signature
Resignation Letter Templates
Short-Notice Resignation Letter Template & Example – This template is ideal for those who require a shorter notice period than their contract defines.
Travel Resignation Letter Template – This resignation letter due to travel template has been created for those people who have given into their itchy feet and decided to pack up and explore the world. Here’s our advice on how to create the ideal travel resignation letter.
Retirement Resignation Letter Template – If you’ve decided it’s time to retire, this retirement resignation letter example will help you to formally resign from your current position.
Post Maternity Leave Resignation Letter Template – Decided not to return to work after your maternity leave? This resignation letter will help advise you on how to notify your employer.
Relocation Resignation Letter Template – If you’re planning on leaving your current position due to relocation, this template will help to guide you on what to include and how to inform your employer.
How do you write a letter of resignation?
Writing down your reasons for resignation can be an extremely uncomfortable and daunting task. If you’re struggling for what to write, don’t panic, Fish4jobs is here to help with our resignation letter templates and examples.
Stick to our expert advice on how to write a professional letter of resignation.
- Keep it professional. Even if your current company are extremely relaxed and you’re on good terms with your boss, your resignation letter should be professional. Ensure that you use a formal tone and professional language throughout the resignation letter.
- Keep it short and sweet. A resignation letter is no place for in-depth justifications as to why you’re leaving the role. If you want to provide your manager or employer with an explanation, we recommend that you do this in person. Keep your resignation letter short, and to the point.
- Provide reasons for leaving (optional). You could include the reasons for leaving to help your current employer to understand the situation. If the reason for your leaving is due to salary, you may get a counter offer.
- Remain polite. Although you may be resigning due to unsavoury matters, we urge you to approach the resignation with the right etiquette.
- Say thank you to your employer for the role. Thank your employer for the opportunity to work at the company.
- Offer to help in the transition period. To ensure the process of leaving goes smoothly for your current employer, offer your assistance with any handover duties
- Avoid personal criticism. Steer clear from criticising your current employer, even if the reasons why you’re leaving are not positive. You may want to contact your past employer for a reference in the future.
- Finish your resignation letter positively. Offer a kind comment for your current employer upon finishing your resignation letter.
For more information and guidance on how to write a letter of resignation, simply copy our template and make necessary adjustments to cater to your specific circumstances. Everyone’s reason for resigning are different, therefore, there is no one-size-fits all resignation letter.
How do you address a resignation letter?
Resignation letters should be addressed to the appropriate person. This could be your line manager, supervisor, manager or the HR department.
Resignation Letter Format
If you find yourself struggling with how to format a resignation letter, stick to the advice below to help you create a professional and well formatted resignation letter.
- Your Contact Information – This should include your first and last name, address, phone number and email address. The contact information should sit at the top right of your resignation letter.
- Date & Employer Contact Information – This information should sit on the left of your resignation letter just above the salutation, and should include the date, company name and company address.
- Salutation – Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. Last Name
- First Paragraph – There is no need to go into detail in this paragraph, simply state the job role you’re resigning from and the date that the resignation will take effect.
- Middle Paragraph – Use this section to thank your current employer for all of the opportunities you have received during your employment.
- Final Paragraph – Conclude by offering to assist with the transition, to remain on good terms with your current employer.
- Professional Close – Kind regards, or respectfully yours.
- Signature – Handwritten is best.
Regardless of the reasons as to why you’re resigning, a well-written letter of resignation is a must. It will ensure you leave in a professional manner and on good terms with your current employer.