When it's time to resign from your current position, figuring out how to break the news can be difficult. Knowing what to include and what to omit in your resignation letter can make a difference in how your exit is perceived. Use the PDF templates provided here as a starting point. Simply click the image of the document that best meets your needs, then edit, save and print. The logo at the top will not print with your document. See this guide if you need assistance.
Simple Resignation Letter Templates With Reasons for Leaving
Write a direct and respectful resignation letter. There's no need to compromise your professionalism even if your reasons for leaving are due to less-than desirable circumstances. You can remove the headings and descriptions and insert your own information, details, and signature. Once you have your letter written, don't forget to date and sign your document.
General Employment Resignation Letter
When you want to let your current employer know that you're leaving to start a new job with another company, this basic template can be a good option.
Professional Resignation Offering Transition Assistance
If you want to add a bit more information to make it clear that you're happy to assist with transitioning your duties to your replacement, this template is a good option.
Sample Shorter Resignation Letter Format
If you want to keep your resignation letter short and sweet, while still making it clear that you'll be accepting a job elsewhere, this example letter is a good option.
Sample Two-Week Notice Resignation Letters
Many companies require a two-week notice if you plan to resign your position. This should be addressed in your letter of resignation. Make sure that you date your letter so that this two-week period is on record, proving that you've complied with your company's policy.
Simple Two-Week Notice Resignation
This version simply informs your employer of your decision to leave without specifying a reason.
More Detailed Two-Week Notice Letter
This version is similar, but it also specifies where you will be working after completing your two-week notice.
Shorter Notice Resignation Letter
Use this version if your compay requests two-week notice but you actually need to shorten that timeframe.
Formatting a Resignation Letter
While the content of any letter is always the most important part, you'll want to be sure that your formatting is also correct in any professional correspondence. For a resignation letter the format is quite simple:
- Start with your full name in bold, followed by your full mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address. Use your company e-mail address if you have one.
- Add the date that you'll be delivering the letter, also in bold.
- Next, include the name of the company, followed by the full name and title of the person receiving the letter, and the address of the company.
- Type in your greeting, such as "Dear Mr. Marvin."
- The full text of your resignation letter follows the greeting.
- Add an appropriate closing, such as "Sincerely," or "Respectfully yours."
- Leave a couple of blank lines to make room for your signature, then type your full name.
- Once you print off your letter, sign it by hand directly under the closing.
Addressing the Letter
The letter should be addressed to the company itself, since it's the company that actually pays you. If the company is a small one the letter should go to the owner; in a situation where the company is large enough to have a personnel department, then address it to the personnel manager. As a courtesy, copy it to your immediate supervisor.
Delivering Your Letter
You will need to share the news that you are leaving in person, and as soon as possible. As a courtesy, tell your immediate supervisor first. Next, contact the company owner or the human resources department to let them know you plan to resign. Follow up with a formal resignation letter confirming your resignation and departure date.
Resignation Letter Tips
Resignation letters contain three major points:
- You're leaving the organization.
- When you're leaving.
- The reason for your resignation, if you choose to share this.
The Dos
- Keep it simple and to the point.
- Maintain professionalism.
- Abide by company policy for notice and means of announcement.
The Don'ts
- Don't ramble on and on. Stick to the facts.
- No badmouthing the company, supervisors, or coworkers.
- Resist the urge to point a finger or place blame for your resignation.
Keep it Professional as You Exit the Organization
While certainly not complicated, there's a nuance to effective business communication. A resignation letter is just one part of the departure process. Before you announce that you are quitting your job, start to put all your affairs in order at work. Afterward, maintain your professionalism and do your best work right up until the very end. Once you have told your current employer you intend to leave you can focus on wrapping up outstanding projects or assisting the person who will take over for you. During the notice period, you are still an employee of the company and need to behave in a professional manner. Your former boss and coworkers won't remember your letter as much as they'll remember your attitude.
