How to Resign from Your Job Professionally and Positively

Jenna Estlick

December 2, 2024

You nailed your final interview and accepted the offer. Congratulations! You’re excited about this next chapter in your career, and then it hits you… there’s still one important step left before you can fully move forward: resigning from your current role.

Learning how to resign from your job is an essential skill for any professional. Even if you’re thrilled about what’s ahead, navigating your departure with care and professionalism will help preserve your reputation and ensure a smooth transition.

Here are 5 key tips to help you resign with confidence and grace:

1) BE PREPARED

You’re likely not the first person to leave the company, and you certainly won’t be the last. Nevertheless, how you resign from your job matters. It can be a delicate process that deserves thoughtful preparation.

Before giving notice, think through how you’ll explain your decision. Whatever your reason may be, keep your message positive, future-focused, and consistent. For example, you might say, “I’ve been given an opportunity that aligns well with my long-term career goals, and I’m excited for the next challenge.” Framing your move as a step toward growth—not an escape from your current job—can help you leave on good terms.

Take time to rehearse your message and anticipate questions. What if your manager is surprised? Disappointed? Or worse, what if they try to change your mind with a counteroffer? Be ready to respectfully decline a counteroffer if you’ve truly made your decision. Accepting a counteroffer may seem flattering, but it often leads to short-term fixes rather than long-term satisfaction.

2) TELL YOUR BOSS IN PERSON

Once your new offer is finalized, schedule an in-person (or live video) meeting with your boss to share the news. Quitting via email or Slack might feel easier, but it’s rarely appropriate in a professional setting.

This is a conversation that deserves your presence. Be direct, professional, and gracious. Avoid telling coworkers before speaking with your manager. News travels fast, and hearing it from someone else could damage your relationship and undermine trust.

3) KEEP IT POSITIVE, PROFESSIONAL, AND CONSTRUCTIVE

You’ve built relationships with your boss and colleagues, and they’ve likely invested time and energy into your development. Even if your experience wasn’t perfect, now is not the time to vent or criticize. Show gratitude for the experience and what you’ve learned.

Resigning is also a reflection of your character. Your tone and attitude will be remembered. Be the person who leaves with grace and appreciation, not frustration or blame.

4) GIVE AMPLE NOTICE

In most cases, two weeks’ notice is standard, but some roles may require more. If possible, propose an end date that gives your team enough time to prepare for your departure. Offering to train your replacement, document processes, or wrap up critical projects shows that you care about your team’s success—even after you leave.

That said, some companies may ask you to leave immediately after giving notice. Don’t take it personally. This is often a policy or security precaution, not a reflection of your value. Be ready for either scenario and plan accordingly.

5) FINISH STRONG

It can be tempting to mentally check out after you give notice—but how you handle your final days may leave a lasting impression. Finish your work. Communicate openly. Show up like a professional until the very end.

Leaving behind incomplete tasks or a negative attitude can tarnish your hard-earned reputation. On the flip side, a strong finish signals maturity, accountability, and leadership potential. It also increases the chance that your current employer will remain a valuable part of your professional network down the line.

Knowing how to resign from your job with professionalism and positivity is a vital part of career growth. These transitions are just as important as landing the next opportunity. Done well, they can build bridges instead of burning them.

If you’re thinking about making a career move—or you’re hiring and need support through a leadership transition, we are here to help. Whether you’re exploring new opportunities or building your team, we’re ready to connect you with the right expert to guide the way.

Let’s find your people. Or help you become someone else’s.

Jenna Estlick / About Author

Jenna joins the Versique team as an HR practitioner with more than 13 years of experience in corporate Human Resources. Prior to joining Versique, Jenna served as Vice President & Head of Human Resources for Radisson Hotel Group, Americas. She was responsible for leading the HR and Responsible Business teams across the Americas and developing and delivering HR business strategies and results related to the company’s five-year plan.

Jenna previously served as Radisson Hotel Group’s Senior Director, Human Resources, Americas, where she provided HR business partner support and led the corporate and managed hotels HR Business Partner teams.

Prior to joining Radisson Hotel Group, Jenna held several HR Business Partner roles at Target. She has a B.A. in International Business & Spanish from the University of St. Thomas.

Jenna is a thoughtful, approachable and collaborative HR leader and partner to her clients. She builds strong relationships and trust and takes the time to understand her client’s business and both short and long-term needs to problem solve and deliver solutions. Jenna is a straightforward communicator, curious, and loves learning while drawing upon her vast HR experience.

Outside Versique, Jenna enjoys spending time with her husband, 2 sons, and golden retriever. She also enjoys cooking, exercising, and staying active outdoors with her family.