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How to Quit Like a Boss

So, you've been at your current company for a few years and maybe you hate it or your face is just smashed up against the proverbial ceiling. Either way, you know in your heart of hearts, it's time to chuck the deuces.
i-quit-my-job
Dear Sirs, I Quit!

So, you've been at your current company for a few years and maybe you hate it or your face is just smashed up against the proverbial ceiling.

Either way, you know in your heart of hearts, it's time to chuck the deuces. Like my Dad always said, "There's a right way to do wrong things and a wrong way to do right things." Let The Brooklyn Reader show exactly how to bow out like a BOSS!

The Resignation Letter

  1. Don't Mince Words. In medical terms, you need to make a clean break. It's important to keep it short and to the point. Simply state the position you're resigning from and when. Sure, you can let your boss know why you're hitting the road but you certainly don't need to go into detail here. Less is more.

Dear [Boss' Name],

Please accept the following letter as my formal notification of resignation from XXX position with [company name]. My last day will be [date of last day] (be a team player to the end and give at least two weeks).

  1. Be Gracious. Keep it classy and thank your employer for the amazing opportunity (yes even if it was the bane of your existence). Go ahead and describe a couple of key points that you actually enjoyed or learned while in the position. Don't burn bridges; you never know who you'll need again along your path. Let your last impression be a positive one.

I greatly appreciate this opportunity over the course of the last [however long this madness has been dragging along]. I've really enjoyed my time as a part of the team [seal the deal with a couple pleasant highlights], I've learned [a couple of things you've learned (yes, dig deep…there must be something useful to report], I know I'll refer back to many of these as I traverse through my career moving forward.

  1. Pass the Baton. The last step is to profess your intention and willingness to make the transition as seamless as possible. No need to be specific so you're not committing to anything that may come back to bite you on the bum. A couple of vague yet pleasant lines about how you plan to seal your tenure should be enough.

Throughout my last two weeks, I will do everything in my power to tie up any loose ends and contribute to training of team members and replacement candidates. Please don't hesitate to reach out and let me know if there's anything I else I can do to facilitate this transition.

I wish the company success and look forward to keeping in touch in the future.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

Escape Your Career With Class!
Escape Your Career With Class!

Will this little ditty be placed at the bottom of a pile in HR…probably…but it will likely make your boss feel warm and fuzzy about your departure and perhaps lead to positive references. Plus, if you ever need to come back, the door will swing that much wider upon your return.

If all else fails, your last formal interaction will remind them that you're a class act!

Move forward and conquer!




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