A resignation letter is a formal document that signifies the end of your employment with a company. It serves as an official record of your departure and provides your employer with essential information about when your employment will terminate, expresses gratitude for your time with the company, and offers any necessary details to facilitate your transition. While some companies require a resignation letter, others consider it a professional courtesy. Whether required or not, submitting a resignation letter is a sign of respect for your employer and your commitment to maintaining a professional work atmosphere. Below, we outline common types of resignation letters and provide templates to help you craft them effectively:
Resignation Due to a Career Change
A resignation letter due to a career change should convey professionalism and accuracy. It’s important to leave on positive terms, as maintaining a good relationship with your current employer can be beneficial for future references or potential returns to the company or industry.
[Your supervisor’s name],
Please accept my formal resignation as from [company name]. My last day of employment will be [last day of work]. I have made the tough decision to pursue a career in [industry].
I am happy to help with the transition process, and I’m able to adjust my last date of employment by a week if needed. I have some excellent training materials I know will be of use to my successor.
I know my time at [company name] will help me in my new career. Four years as has more than prepared me for a career in [industry], and I am so grateful for all I have learned.
Best wishes,
[Your name]
Resignation Due to Relocation
A resignation letter due to relocation informs your employer that you are leaving the company because you are moving to a new city or country. Clearly explain the reason for your departure and provide a plan for wrapping up any unfinished projects before leaving.
[Your supervisor’s name],
The following is my formal resignation from [company name] as . My last day of employment will be [last date of work]. I will move with my family to Norwich in the next few months.
Let me know how I may be of service until then. I am happy to help with anything needed during the transition process.
Thank you for all the opportunities I received as a . I hope I find another company in my new city that has equally kind, competent and helpful colleagues.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Resignation Due to a Return to Education
A resignation letter for returning to education should highlight why continuing your education is essential for your career. If you plan to return to your current industry after completing your education, maintaining a positive relationship with your employer is crucial.
[Your supervisor’s name],
Please accept my resignation from [company name] as , as I have decided to return to education. I will attend the University of Birmingham to further my studies in engineering.
Part of the reason that I want to return to university is because of all the amazing experiences I had at [company name]. The many projects I completed during my time as have convinced me to return to education to expand on what I’ve learned during my employment.
Let me know how I can be of service during the transition period. I one day hope to return to [company name] after I have completed my course.
Thank you,
[Your name]
Resignation Due to Personal Reasons
When resigning for personal reasons, maintain professionalism throughout your letter. You may choose to keep the letter generic or provide a brief, nonspecific explanation for your departure.
[Your supervisor’s name],
Please accept my resignation from [company name] as . My mother has become ill, and I am her primary caregiver. I have decided to leave the company to spend more time in my caregiving role.
Thank you for all you have done for me. I have enjoyed my time with the company, and I’m grateful for all the help I’ve received from my co-workers in the past few years.
I will be available over the next two weeks to help with the transition.
Thank you again,
[Your name]
Resignation After Maternity/Paternity Leave
If you decide not to return to work after maternity or paternity leave, explain your decision and express gratitude for the opportunity. Offer assistance during the transition and mention your intention to return to the industry in the future.
[Your supervisor’s name],
During my maternity/paternity leave, I have decided not to return to [company name] as . I plan on staying home with my child for the foreseeable future.
This was a tough decision to make as I have enjoyed my time at [company name]. I hope you will remember me in the future as I plan to return to this industry in the next few years.
I am more than happy to help with the transition process. I am available over email and on phone. I can also return to the office for a few days to help with the more technical aspects of the transition.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Resignation Due to Workplace Changes
In cases where you must resign due to workplace issues, maintain professionalism and focus on your career goals. Avoid discussing specific negative experiences and emphasize the benefits of your decision.
[Your supervisor’s name],
This is my official resignation as at [company name]. I will leave on [date] at the end of my contract.
While I have enjoyed my time at [company name], recent changes in my position as are no longer in line with my ultimate career goals. I believe it is best to seek a career that has all the elements I require.
As my contract ends in two months, I have plenty of time to be of help during the transition period. Please let me know of any way I can be of help.
Best wishes,
[Your name]
Resignation letters are an essential part of leaving a company professionally and maintaining a positive relationship with your employer. Tailoring your resignation letter to your specific situation helps ensure a smooth transition and leaves the door open for future opportunities.