How to hand in your resignation?

Submitting your resignation is not something you do every day. That is why we would like to outline the ''what'', ''when'' and ''how'' for you. Besides the legal part, there are many practical and sometimes emotional aspects. Step by step, you will get closer to your new job and you will be able to say goodbye to your current employer in the best possible way.

From resignation to your new job in 5 steps 

1. Preparing your resignation

You have taken the courageous decision to change jobs. You can now start drafting your resignation letter. Address your letter to HR, your manager or the managing director and keep it professional and factual. From a legal point of view, the letter has to contain the following elements: the exact date, your name and address, the address of the employer, the notification of your resignation, the starting date of your notice, the legal duration of your notice period and, of course, your signature. You can always add a word of thanks. You do not need to give a reason for leaving. You can either send the letter by registered mail or have it personally signed for receipt. Always keep a copy for yourself. If you want to play it safe, it is advisable to send the letter by registered post. 
A word of explanation about notice periods: You can calculate your official notice period via this tool. The term always starts on the next Monday after the sending or sign-off of the letter. Send your registered letter at the latest on Wednesday for starting on the following Monday. If you want to personally hand over your letter of resignation, you can do so until Friday.
If you want to leave earlier than the official term, you may discuss this with your employer.

2. Hand in your resignation

Out of respect, it is always better to inform your manager personally about your decision. Be sure to thank your manager and try to mention what you take away from your experience with the company. If you want to leave before your statutory period of notice, try to convince your boss with arguments such as your continued commitment, a smooth transfer, your promise not to take any leave of absence. Agree carefully how and when you or (s)he will inform your colleagues. Reactions can vary from surprisingly positive to anger and blackmail. Above all, keep in mind that an employer can never refuse a dismissal. What they can do, however, is make you a counter-offer to try and keep you on board for the time being. In our blog Counter-offer, what now? you can read all about this. 

3. During your notice period

It is sometimes difficult to keep motivated during your notice period. Your new challenge is just around the corner. Yet it is important to remain professional. The world is smaller than you think. If possible, complete ongoing projects, ensure a good handover, create a manual of your job and train your successor. As difficult as it may be, try not to gossip or encourage your soon-to-be ex-colleagues to leave as well. There is also no need to feel guilty about leaving. 

4. Your last days

Take the time to speak to the colleagues you want to thank personally. If it is customary, you can organise a farewell gathering with a snack and a drink. Clear your desk and remove your personal belongings. Make sure all documents are in order: holiday certificate, salary, bonuses and holiday pay. On the last day, hand in all your equipment neatly and correctly: key, badge, laptop, smartphone and car. In short, close this chapter in a correct manner. 

5. A new chapter 

Looking back with pride is nice, but looking forward with anticipation is even nicer! If you want to keep in touch with your colleagues, this is the ideal moment to expand your LinkedIn network. This way you can keep in touch with them in one click and, once you have started at your new employer, you can quickly distribute your new contact details. Hopefully you can take some time to relax before your first day at work. If you have any doubts about the do's and don't's on your first day, read more here.

We hope our step-by-step guide has helped you to make your resignation a professional one. If you would like more information or an extra word, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you. 
We wish you the best of luck in your new job. If it does not turn out exactly as you expected, please let us know.

If you are interested in working with Arcadius on your search, please discover here what we can do for you. See you soon!

Follow us also on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.