As much as you probably can’t wait to drop the bomb and get outta there, the actual drop itself can be a bit daunting when the time comes to resign from your job. You want to word it just right so you leave gracefully and don’t burn any bridges — unless you do want to burn them, in which case, burn away.
Ultimately, you’ve decided to move on to bigger and better prospects and should be a good sport about it. And as horrible as your job may have been, it’s a good play to leave on a positive note because you don’t know when you might cross paths with those people again.
When crafting an impactful resignation letter, you obviously need to watch your words. In all likelihood, they’re the last ones they’ll hear out of you. So make them good.
Be short and sweet.
Don’t beat around the bush. Get straight to your point and make it quick. The main point you’re trying to get to should be something like this:
Dear so and so…
Please accept my formal resignation.
My last day will be two Fridays from now.
Depending on how long you’ve worked at this particular place, this may not be the best policy.
If you’ve put in a decade or more, you may want to go into a few more details such as how you plan on helping them with their transition in finding and training a new person.
Keep it professional.
Want to drop the hammer in the most cathartic and profane way possible? Resist the urge and relish in the fact that you no longer have to deal with them. Keep a professional tone that shows no resentment or hate.
But if there’s something you want to get off your chest, phrase it in the form of respective constructive criticism. You’ll know what you mean and so will they.
Keep the lines open.
Even if you have no intention of doing so, tell them you’d like to stay in touch for whatever they may need in the future: you never know when you might cross paths again (especially in niche industries). Keep your friends close and your enemies closer, right?