Resigning from your job is a big step. Whether you’re moving on to a new opportunity, taking time out, or simply ready for a change, the way you leave matters. A well-written resignation sets the tone for your exit and helps you leave on good terms with your employer.

At Adria Solutions, we work with candidates at all stages of their career journeys. One of the most common questions we get is, “How do I resign properly?” So here’s a simple guide to writing your resignation, handing it in professionally, and preparing for what comes next.

Why It’s Important to Resign the Right Way

No matter how long you’ve been with a company, leaving with professionalism and respect can go a long way. A good resignation helps you:

Preserve professional relationships
Secure positive references for future roles
Leave your current team in a good position
Move forward with confidence

Even if your experience wasn’t entirely positive, how you resign says a lot about you. It’s your last impression and it’s worth getting right.

When to Hand in Your Notice

Before you write anything, make sure the timing is right. Ideally, you should:

Have a signed offer for your next role
Know your notice period (check your contract)
Prepare yourself emotionally and professionally

Avoid resigning during times of uncertainty unless absolutely necessary. Once you’re sure, it’s time to put it in writing.

A woman holding a box of personal belongings labelled with a resignation document, looking pensive as she exits an office, with a colleague in the background working at a desk.

What to Include in a Resignation Letter

A resignation letter should be short, polite, and to the point. Here’s what to include:

A clear statement that you are resigning
Your last working day (based on your notice period)
A sentence of thanks or appreciation (optional but recommended)
An offer to support the handover

There’s no need to go into detail about why you’re leaving unless you want to. Keep the tone positive and professional.

Resignation Letter Template

Here’s a simple resignation letter you can copy and adapt:

Dear [Manager’s Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from [Company Name]. My last working day will be [Date], in line with my notice period.

I would like to thank you for the support and opportunities during my time here. I’ve learned a great deal and enjoyed working with the team. I’ll do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition over the coming weeks.

Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]

This format works in most situations. If you’re working remotely or on a fixed-term contract, you can adjust the wording slightly, but the same structure applies.

How to Hand in Your Resignation

Once your letter is ready, don’t just email it. Wherever possible, book a quick one-to-one with your manager and speak to them face to face or via video call. Keep the conversation simple and clear. For example:

“I wanted to let you know that I’ve decided to accept a new role and I’m handing in my notice. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I’m grateful for the experience here.”

Depending on your company’s culture or policy, your manager may accept your resignation by email, or they might ask for a printed, signed copy. It’s best to check with them once you’ve had the conversation. Either way, have the written letter ready to go so you can follow up quickly and professionally.

Being honest without oversharing is key. Avoid complaining, blaming others, or comparing roles. Stay calm, respectful, and focused on the future.

Two women having a focused conversation in a professional office setting, with a laptop on the table between them.

What Happens After You Resign

After you hand in your notice, there are a few things that may happen:

Your employer might make a counter-offer
You’ll likely be asked to complete a handover
You may have an exit interview with HR
You might be put on garden leave (especially in senior or client-facing roles)

Be prepared for mixed reactions. Some colleagues will be happy for you. Others might be surprised or even disappointed. Focus on staying professional and supportive until your last day.

What to Do Before You Leave

Leaving well means tying up loose ends. Here’s a quick checklist:

Complete a handover document
Return any company equipment
Back up personal files or contacts
Ask for LinkedIn recommendations or references
Update your CV and LinkedIn with your latest experience

Also, take time to say goodbye properly. A thoughtful farewell message goes a long way in maintaining positive connections.

Final Thoughts

Resigning doesn’t have to be awkward or stressful. With the right approach, you can leave on good terms, protect your reputation, and step confidently into your next role.

At Adria Solutions, we support professionals at every stage of their job search, from exploring new opportunities to preparing for interviews, negotiating offers, and yes, even handing in their resignation letters.

If you’re thinking about your next move, or not sure when the right time to resign might be, our team is here to help. We’ll guide you through every step of the journey.

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