Resigning Gracefully

Congratulations! You've landed the job! Now you are faced with the delicate challenge of resigning from your current employer without burning bridges, and saying good-bye to friends and colleagues.

Resign With Conviction

Your recruiter will help you draft your resignation letter. Then, you will make an appointment with your manager to respectfully explain your decision. Your manager needs to hear that your decision is firm and final, and that you are committed to your new employer. Express appreciation for the opportunities that your former employer has given you. Remember that people change jobs. This is not the first time that someone has resigned from this company!

Expect the question, "What would it take to keep you here?" Be prepared with the answer, "I've thought through my decision and I feel this is the best opportunity for my career."

Be A Partner In Planning Your Departure

Be careful not to get lured into any discussions other than your resignation at your resignation meeting. It's best to schedule a separate meeting to discuss how your employer wants to handle your final weeks or the transition of your current responsibilities and projects.

Being Asked To Leave Early

Arrange with your new company to start early if you're "cut loose." Don't take it personally if you are asked to leave early - sometimes companies want to promote another person into your position immediately so they can move on. In fact, during your resignation it's a good idea to offer, "I'm providing you with notice, but if you would rather that I leave early my new company will be happy for me to start." This takes the pressure off everyone and allows for the best possible transition. Such an offer simply makes you a "good partner."

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