Take a deep breath! It’s time to tell your current employer that you’re leaving…

Resigning can be incredibly enjoyable if you feel badly-treated by a business (think Bridget Jones), but often you like the company and team, but are simply seeking a new challenge. It’s when you have close personal relationships to leave behind that resigning can be quite emotional.

Your resignation letter

The best sort of resignation letter is short and sweet. Don’t put anything negative or critical in it, as it could be kept on-file and resurface should you ever apply to work for the business again. Generally the “done thing” is to thank them for the opportunities they’ve given you, but say that it’s time for pastures new.

www.i-resign.com has some good templates.

Refer to your contractual notice period in the letter, and state the date that you would like to leave on. Generally you will have to serve full notice, but occasionally if you’re going to work for a competitor they may not want you in the office – a spy in the camp! Be prepared for that, and make sure you’ve got any personal emails from your PC, photos from your desk and handcream from your drawer.

Doing the deed

Ask your line manager for a few minutes of their time somewhere private, then hand them the letter. Talk them through your new opportunity and be professional if they ask why you’re leaving. Don’t worry if it is an emotional meeting – you wouldn’t be the first person to shed a tear when resigning (or indeed for you both to do so!).

Counter-offers

It’s very normal for companies to be keen to hold on to their best talent..,

…so expect them to offer you a promotion or payrise to stay with them. Remember you don’t have to tell them anything about your new role or salary. It is flattering to be asked to retract your resignation – either when you resign or even on your last day! – but keep the reasons for your job search at the forefront of your mind.

Picture the future…Have an image of yourself – 2 years down the line – in your mind. You went to your dream role, you were successful, promoted, and received several payrises…think about where your NEXT role will be from there. Exciting isn’t it! Keep that image in your mind should your current boss try to persuade you to stay – would the same be true if you remained there do you think?

Leaving with your head held high

Some companies hold Exit Interviews, and you may be asked to complete a Leaving Questionnaire. Remember not to be overly critical, but if you have something constructive to say, phrase it well and hedge it as useful advice for future employees.

Finally, maintain your dignity and integrity as you leave. You’ll probably bump into your colleagues again in other businesses as you carry on working in retail, so keep that in mind – it’s a very small industry! Take contact details for those you’d like to stay in touch with….and avoid getting totally sloshed on your leaving do and doing / saying anything embarrassing!