Are you thinking about changing jobs?
You may be unsure how and when to announce you are leaving.
It’s vital to this without damaging relationships.
You want to leave on good terms and not burn bridges.
Listen to today to learn how you can submit your resignation and share that you’re moving on to a new career.
Resigning from a job
Lindsay shares that the last time she resigned was from an English school.
She was going to travel to Santiago and then move to Boston.
It was a temporary job so she felt it wasn’t a surprise when she announced her resignation.
Aubrey shares that this was inspired by a Business English class with a student.
The student asked how to tell colleagues or a superior that you are leaving.
Today you will learn specific phrases to announce a resignation.
Ways to say you’re moving on
Moving jobs really give you a lot to think about.
Lindsay and Aubrey share what determines how you give notice and a few phrases you can use for announcing your resignation.
The initial thing to consider is how you should give notice.
It depends on what you’ll be doing after you’ve resigned.
Are you moving across the country, do you have a new job in two weeks, or are you seeking out a new opportunity?
Once you determine that, there are many other things to think about.
#1: How and when to announce resignation
In the U.S., the minimum notice to resign is two weeks.
This is a courtesy to your job so that they can find a replacement.
Giving an extended notice is nice as this can give the new person an opportunity to be trained.
#2: Should you give a reason?
When you share the reason you’re leaving, you can choose to give broad answers.
You’re not required to say the reason why you’re leaving or give any detail.
Depending on the company, there may be a requirement to have a one-on-one session with your manager to announce your resignation.
You can use phrases like:
- I want to officially notify you that I’m giving my resignation. I’m planning on my last day being…
- My last day will be…
Also, at the same time, you should write an email announcing your resignation, sign it, and indicate a date.
Immediately after you announce your resignation, email it to your boss and BCC yourself.
Blind copying yourself on the email is a good way to have a copy of the email you sent as evidence.
This is especially important if you’re leaving a toxic place and they try to claim later on that they fired you.
It’s also important to send that email for employment history and records.
#2: How much detail should you give?
You don’t need to explain why the new job fits, but you should be prepared to answer that question.
Here are phrases that you can use to give broad answers when asked why you’re leaving.
- I’m looking for new growth opportunities.
- I’m looking to expand my horizons.
- I’m looking to move up vertically.
- I’m looking to find a better work life balance.
- I have always been excited about the other industry and didn’t see the same opportunity internally.
#3: Never burn a bridge
It’s important to know that you should never burn a bridge with your current employer or superior.
You should remain professional and keep those professional relationships, especially if you still want to have a new career in the same industry.
If you choose, you can share the details of your new venture with your manager.
However, it boils down to the relationship you have with them.
Don’t shock them with your resignation.
There is a way to share that you’re leaving and give enough information to keep them at ease as you transition.
You don’t want people to mistrust you.
Roleplay
Here is a quick roleplay from Lindsay and Aubrey sharing an example.
In this scenario, Lindsay is announcing her resignation.
Lindsay: I want to officially notify you that I’m giving my resignation. I’m planning on my last day being Aug. 20th.
Aubrey: I’m sorry to hear it. You’ve been an invaluable member of our team. Is there any way we can persuade you to stay?
Lindsay: Unfortunately, no, but I appreciate it. I’m looking to find a better work life balance fit.
Aubrey: We are definitely sad to see you go, but we wish you the best in your future endeavors!
Takeaway
There’s a lot to consider when giving notice of leaving your current workplace.
Be broad with your answers and don’t share too many details, especially if you’re not comfortable doing so.
Use the phrases shared by Lindsay and Aubrey in today’s episode to properly communicate your resignation.
Don’t shock people with your announcement and have a plan on sharing this transition.
Definitely send an email announcing your resignation immediately after resigning in person.
Give at least two weeks notice.
Lastly, avoid burning bridges by expressing gratitude and remaining positive.
When did you last announce a resignation?
Share details in the comments.
