Leaving Your Job - Be Professional

Leaving an employer, no matter how long you havea good idea to thank them for the opportunity to work
been with a company, always causes some level ofwith them and let them know that you have enjoyed
anxiety. However, you can work to alleviate anythe experience.
negative feelings if it is done the right way. You wantThe idea here is to terminate the relationship on a
to let the employer know that you will leave allpositive note.
projects completed and your professional affairs inThe Resignation Letter
order.Your resignation should be short and sweet. There is
Also, consider how your new endeavor will impactno need to write a two page synopsis of your
your employment history. Will it help to enhance youremployment history, nor is it relevant to go over facts
professional career or will you making a lateral careerand figures. Whatever complaints you may have had
move? These factors should be considered carefullywith the company, leave them out. Your letter should
before you make the decision to terminate yourclearly state your last date of service.
employment.How to Handle a Counteroffer
Remember - once you hand in your resignation it willIf your reasons for terminating the relationship are due
probably be final.to a finding a better opportunity elsewhere, you might
Turning In Your Resignationbe given a counteroffer. Now, in this situation, you will
Once you decide to resign, you will need to put yourneed to decide if you really want to leave or if you
intentions in writing. A professional letter addressed towant to accept the new offer. Whatever decision you
your direct supervisor is the most effective way to domake, keep in mind that either decision will impact both
this. Your resignation letter will be added to youremployers.
permanent employment record so keep that in mindYour decision to accept a counter offer may increase
when you write one.your financial reward, but it could also make your
After you resignation has been handed in, you workcolleagues think that you are not a team player. Also,
performance should remain the same. Don't bethe employer that you had previously accepted an
tempted to have a poor attendance record oroffer from will need to be told that you will not be
produce inferior work.working for them. These events could be detrimental
Management will take note of any decrease into your career and thus future opportunities - so it is
productivity and this could work against you in thewise not to take them lightly.
future.Most employers these days conduct exit interviews
Be Preparedprior to employees leaving the company. This gives all
You might be questioned by your employer as to whyparties involved a chance to state their feelings about
you are terminating your working relationship. Bethe relationship. It is also the time to conclude all
prepared to answer this question. You must keep yourbusiness transactions such as relinquishing security
professional goals in mind and not place blame on yourcodes, identification badges, and other items that you
employer.have in your possession.
When handing in your resignation, schedule aLeaving on friendly terms leaves your professional
confidential appointment with your immediatenetwork intact - because you will definitely need them
supervisor to discuss the matter. Bring the letter within the future.
you to your meeting enclosed in a sealed envelope. It's