Whatever the reasons for your resignation, it should always be performed in the same calm, professional and unemotional manner you'd be expected to show dealing with any other issue at work.
Obviously this is much harder to achieve if you have been unhappy in your job or felt unappreciated, but if you are tempted to storm into the directors’ monthly meeting and explain in lurid detail exactly what you think of the company and your ‘superiors’ - consider the potential repercussions.
Regardless of the position you are about to take up, you simply never know when your path might cross that of your employer in the future. Imagine, for instance, that the company you insult becomes a potential client at your new place of work. And there is also the issue of employer references. If you have been offered the new position subject to a positive reference from your present employer, the last thing you want to do is rely on the goodwill of someone you took pains to humiliate.
That said, how exactly should you go about resigning?
1. Telling your boss
You should tell your immediate superior of the new position as soon as possible, before writing a formal letter or, indeed, informing any of your colleagues. If you do feel any antagonism towards your boss, you should wait until you are calm and sure you won’t succumb to any temptations of recklessness.
2. Constructive criticism
Remembering that the people you work with could be contacts for the future, make every effort to ensure the transition between jobs is as smooth as possible. If you do feel you should make mention of some difficulties you have experienced, first ask yourself if it is really necessary, then make sure you deliver your comments in the form of constructive criticism.
3. The counter offer
Consider the possibility that you employer may tempt you to stay with an offer of improved salary / benefits/ job description. If you are tempted by a new offer, remind yourself of why you decided to leave. Your employer might claim that these problems will be remedied – is this likely? Do you want to work for a company that only recognises your talent when you threaten to leave? Remember that if you do decide to stay, you will have to turn down the new job you have already accepted which could affect any future relations you might have with the organisation.
4.The resignation letter
When writing your resignation letter, don’t feel you have to be too specific. You basically only have to mention the position you are resigning from and your intended leaving date. Explain why you feel ready to move on but do not dwell on any negative aspects of your present job. Try to mention of something positive that you have learnt or experienced during your time with the company and wish your employer well for the future. If you are tempted to vent your anger in writing, make sure you go over your letter with a fresh pair of eyes when feeling more serene.
5. Notice Period
Your contract of employment should mention how much notice you are required to work. If there is no stipulation you should allow for two weeks to a month. You will most likely be required to hand over your duties to your successor during this time and, remembering that you want to leave on the best possible terms, you should make an effort to do this well. If you need to leave before the end of your notice period, draw up a schedule for the completion any projects and the handing over of duties. You should then ask your employer politely if he/she will waive the notice period, explaining that you need to join your new employer as quickly as possible.