Tell your manager first, in person

Your manager should hear it from you before anyone else and before any written notice. Book a short private meeting or call. Keep it brief, calm, and gracious — you do not owe a detailed justification.

Give proper notice

Check your contract for the notice period and honour it. Two weeks is the common minimum, but senior or specialised roles often require more. Adequate notice is the single biggest factor in leaving on good terms.

Put it in writing, briefly

A resignation letter does not need to be long. State that you are resigning, give your last day, and thank them. Skip the complaints.

Dear Maria,

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my
resignation from the role of Project Manager. My last day
will be Friday, 14 March.

Thank you for the opportunities I have had here. I am
happy to help ensure a smooth handover over the coming
weeks.

Kind regards,
Alex Rivera

Offer a clean handover

Document your in-progress work, write down where things live, and offer to brief whoever takes over. A tidy exit is what people remember.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Telling colleagues before your manager. News travels fast and it stings to hear it secondhand.
  • Burning bridges. Resist the urge to air grievances on the way out.
  • Skipping notice. Leaving abruptly can follow you through references.
  • Coasting through the notice period. Finish strong.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to give a reason for leaving?

No. A simple “I have decided to take on a new opportunity” is enough. You can share more in an exit interview if you choose, but you are not obliged to.

Should I tell them where I am going?

That is entirely your choice. It is fine to keep your next move private until you are ready to share it.

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