How to Resign

Congratulations on accepting your new position. Now prepare yourself for the emotional and logistical challenges that lie ahead. The job changing process causes many uncomfortable feelings and during the transitional phase between accepting the position and starting the new job you may be in emotional limbo. Suddenly, reality kicks in that you are leaving and a sense of guilt may follow. My boss is going to kill me or you may suffer from buyer's remorse and feel what if I made a mistake? Relax, it's natural. Most people at all levels have a fear of change or fear the unknown. Remember, there were reasons you got to this stage of the process.

If you really want to make a job change, a counteroffer from your present company shouldn't change your desire to leave. In fact accepting a counteroffer can be devastating to your career. Be prepared for the predictable reactions of your employer.

They will be shocked. "How will we get the work done without you?" "We had no idea you were unhappy."

They will start to probe. "What company are you going to?" "What type of position did you accept?" "What are they going to pay you?"

They make you an offer to prevent you from leaving. "Coincidentally, we were just going to promote you." "We just got approval for your raise."

It may take a few days for these stages to run their course but inevitably it will happen. Remember it's more expensive to replace you than to throw extra money or potential promotions your way, which may or may not come to fruition anyway. Statistics show nine out of ten people who accept counteroffers are not with the company six months later.

When you announce your intention to resign, you should hand your supervisor a letter that states your last date of employment with the company. Let your supervisor know you have enjoyed working with them but an opportunity came along you couldn't pass up and your decision to leave is final and made after careful consideration and doesn't reflect negative feelings towards the company or the staff. Let your supervisor know you appreciate what the company has done for you and you will do everything possible to make your departure as smooth as possible.

Keep the resignation letter short, simple and to the point.