THE WRITTEN RESIGNATION
Written resignations give you the time to effectively prepare what you
wish to communicate, and give you greater control over your delivery
of the message. You can't be thrown off-track by an unexpected remark
as can happen during a confrontational conversation. A written resignation
also reinforces the fact that you are really leaving and are not simply
threatening in order to renegotiate your position. Also, there is something
permanent about the written word which often circumvents interrogation.
Under no circumstance should you state any dissatisfactions with the
firm or individuals. Not only is it good manners to stress the positive
when leaving, but items in your personal file may long outlast the individuals
and circumstances responsible for your dissatisfaction. You never know
when your path will cross those of your former colleagues.
To keep your resignation short, simple and positive, you may want to
write something like:
"Dear ,
I want to thank you for all you have done for me here at [Company].
It's been a pleasure working with you, and representing the company
as your [job title].
After careful consideration, I have accepted a potion with another
company that is more in line with my career goals. Although I consider
my past and present relationship with [Company] to be very beneficial,
my decision is firm.. Therefore, I must submit my resignation effective
[Date] (i.e., Monday, January 14th).
During the remainder of my stay, I will continue to conduct my work
professionally and efficiently, and do all that I can to minimize
the effects of my departure.
I wish [Company] continued success, and I want to thank you for allowing
me to be a part of your team. Please fee free to contact me at any
time if I can be of further assistance in helping with a smooth transition.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letters get filed and passed around to explain what happened, reducing
the call for endless orations on the same subject. They also dispel
any perceived ambivalence in your behavior during this delicate time.
THE COUNTEROFFER
Surveys show that eight out of 10 employees who accept counteroffers
don't complete the following year with their employer. (WBEW, "Counteroffer
Acceptance, the Road to Career Ruin" by Paul Hawkinson, 12-11-83).
Why shun counteroffers? Because the factors that caused you to seek
or entertain a better offer are likely to remain in force. Besides which,
your current employer will probably lose trust in your loyalty.
Accepting a counteroffer may permanently damage your reputation with
your would-be-employer. Your prospective new colleagues may conclude
that you were merely using them to gain leverage; you weren't in earnest
as a candidate. Never underestimate the value of your perceived integrity
in this situation.
The best response to a counteroffer is to listen politely, perhaps even
sleep on it, but decline. If your current firm denied you advancement
before you secured an outside offer, it will probably thwart you the
next time you feel ready to advance. What's more, your firm may start
looking to replace you the day you accept the counteroffer. Your plans
for leaving may not be forgotten!
LEAVE ON THE RIGHT NOTE
Before leaving the firm, take time to speak with each of your support
staff, peers, executive personnel and others with whom you've worked.
To the extent practical, clear up any unfinished business. Be sensitive
to others' reactions and keep your conversations positive and constructive.
Some people may naturally express their own discontentment and may egg
you on to agree with them. Don't! Instead, express your appreciation
and tell your colleagues you'll miss them. A little time spent nurturing
relationships before leaving for your new job will go a long way to
build support for your future.
Also keep in mind that it is professional courtesy to give your employer
ample notice to help them prepare for your departure - typically 2 to
4 weeks. However, you should try to get out as soon as possible to avoid
recurring invitations to tell your story, and to avoid having to deal
with the frustrations and pressures at the job as the firm adjusts to
your leaving.
by
Rich Hornberger
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