Resignation & Counteroffers
HOW TO RESIGN GRACEFULLY!
Now that you’ve made the important decision to accept a job offer from another company, it’s
crucial to handle your resignation gracefully from your current position. Here’s a step-by-step
guide to ensure a smooth transition:
1. Timely Notification: Notify your supervisor of your resignation as soon as possible,
ideally on the same day you accept the new offer. Craft a tactful resignation letter with
the following key points:
Clearly state that you are resigning.
Specify your last working day.
Express gratitude for the time spent at the company.
2. Reasons for Leaving: Share your reasons for leaving only if asked, and keep the
conversation brief. Explain that you’re excited about the new opportunity aligning with
your career goals. Avoid discussions about changing careers, as your decision is final.
3. Confidential Salary: Maintain the confidentiality of your new salary offer. If questioned,
simply mention that the offer was fair, and refrain from further discussion. Salary
negotiations should remain private between you and your new employer.
4. Preserve Relationships: Never burn bridges with your current employer, as this could
impact future references. Leave on good terms to maintain positive professional
relationships.
5. Avoid Financial Reasons: Never cite financial issues as the reason for your departure.
Focusing on career growth and new challenges is a more professional approach.
6. Smooth Transition: Offer your assistance in transitioning your responsibilities to a
colleague or replacement. Your last day is not negotiable, as you’ve already committed to
your new employer. Your decision is final.
Example Resignation Letter:
[Your Name] [Your Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] [Date]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I am writing to formally announce my irrevocable resignation from [Company Name]. My last
day of employment will be Friday, [Last Working Day], 20XX.
I am sincerely grateful for the experience and knowledge I’ve gained during my time with the
company, which has contributed significantly to my career growth.
Please consider this letter as my formal notice, and I want to emphasize that my decision to leave
is irrevocable.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Title]
Counteroffer Considerations:
When faced with a counteroffer from your current employer, be prepared for enticing
propositions such as promotions, salary matches, or undisclosed plans. However, it’s essential to
remain resolute in your decision to leave for career growth. Remember:
Counteroffers might not lead to real improvements in your work environment.
Accepting a counteroffer can raise doubts about your loyalty and hinder future
advancement.
Employers may resort to counteroffers as a cost-effective alternative to hiring a new
employee.
Relying on threats to secure raises or promotions is not a sustainable strategy.
Statistics show that 80% of those who accept counteroffers end up leaving within a year.
It’s usually best to stick with your initial decision and pursue the new opportunity for career advancement.