Finally, the day has come. You have signed on the dotted line with your new company and are ready to leave your current organization. Where do you start? Resigning is always an emotional experience and can be overwhelming. The letter is a small part of this tedious process. This article defines some of the key principles in order to carry out an effective resignation.

1. Talk First to Your Manager
It is always advisable to inform your manager first about your intention to resign. Your manager will be keen to let the rest of the organization know in their appropriate timing. Your manager will also need to proactively consider what solutions to fill the gap with your vacancy. Make sure you keep it confidential with your Boss only and avoid telling anyone else at this stage.

 2. Less is more
Next is your resignation letter. We would strongly recommend that you use the KISS acronym. Keep It Short and Simple. A typical resignation letter would only need the following. 
- The resignation statement with effective date for example: “I wish to tender my resignation effective {Insert date}
- Thank you for example: “Thank you for the opportunity over the last xy years”
- Sign off

3. Understand the exit process 
The exit process is kicked off with your resignation letter. This process covers particular details such as clearing your leave days, your notice period, your tax information, your visa and work permit aspects if you are a foreigner, security passwords, security passes, laptops, phones, credit cards, last salary pay out. This is not an exhaustive list but 90% of the key areas. To be able to still concentrate on finalizing your work and managing the logistics, we would strongly recommend that you engage a team member or your assistant to help you in getting everything done before your last week. Be careful to remove all your personal information on your laptop or any other company property. If you are joining a competitor you need to anticipate that you may be asked to leave immediately. 

4. Avoid Burning Bridges
Regardless of the circumstances with the company or your boss, maintain a professional relationship as you plan your exit.  This is not the time to complain bitterly about all the things you may be unhappy with. Maintain your professionalism throughout the process. Continue with all your regular meetings or catch up’s. Unless the organization feels that there is a confidentiality risk, be fully engaged until the last day. Identify those colleagues whom you wish to stay connected via LinkedIn. You will need your networks at a later stage and it is important to keep them warm. 

 5. Prepare Your Handover 
Handover plans make it easier for the future incumbent to hit the ground running. Start at least one month before your actual last day in the office. Organize your files and data in a way that is easy for your successor or your colleagues to find information. Convert hard copy information into soft copies to make it simpler to access. Leave your personal contact number or email in case you are still needed for urgent items.

6. Don’t over promote your new career 
Be sensitive towards sharing information about your new employer and avoid creating a bad atmosphere for those you are leaving behind and exit gracefully. 

We are confident that with these principles you will be able to start on your new journey feeling ready and prepared to give your very best in your next chapter!