Dear Job Doctor,

What is the best way to hand in my notice?

Once you have received, signed and accepted the written terms of the new offer, you need to fully prepare to resign from your current employment. There are right and wrong ways to resign when leaving a job. Resigning calls for diplomacy, good sense, calm, deep consideration and strength of character.

Do not feel guilty about resigning. Focus on and remember all the reasons why you decided to explore alternative opportunities in the first place. During your resignation meeting it is important to highlight that your reasons for leaving are not going to change and your decision is final and irrecoverable.

It is likely that your current employer will be disappointed to lose a good member of staff and it may also be completely unexpected. Your employer may attempt to change your mind and adopt certain methods, such as making a counter offer, criticism or disparagement, peer group pressure, spontaneous promotion and immediate departure.

To avoid the methods which your employer may use to keep you, you will need to prepare.

A written resignation letter is an opportunity to take time to consider what you want to say in a controlled way, so make sure you spend time on it. It is worth noting that your new employer has a right to see your resignation letter, so it is important to keep this positive too. It is a good opportunity to thank your employer for the opportunities given.

Emphasise the positives of your time with your employer. You never know when you might see them again and how important they might be to you in the future.

Always expect a reaction. Prepare for an emotional or confrontational response and stick to your prepared comments. Avoid getting into an argument that may harm your chances of a good reference. Stay calm and exercise calm breathing techniques if necessary.

The resignation meeting should be very straightforward and should not take too long, especially if you show from the start that your decision is final and you are clear in presenting your reasons for leaving.

Your employer should then facilitate your exit according to your current agreement and standard procedure.

Whatever happens, always act graciously and professionally in order to maintain respect and the best possible relationship.

Remember that handing in your notice may not be a pleasant prospect, especially if you have been working for your employer for many years and have respect for your management and team. Though the feeling of relief and excitement when the process has been completed, the anticipation of joining a new challenge, and the joy you will have when you start your new opportunity will quickly overcome any nerves you may feel leading up to this inevitable and necessary event.

In brief, be clear, concise, and gracious in both your letter and your meeting.

For further guidance on handing in your notice, please email me in confidence and I will forward a more detailed guide.

Darren Robinson is managing director of Badenoch & Clark Luxembourg, the largest staffing and recruitment firm in the Grand Duchy.

Have a question for the Job Doctor? Send an email to [email protected] with “Job Doctor” in the subject line. Your inquiry will be confidential: the Job Doctor will not be given your name, nor will it be published anywhere by Delano.