Avoid Burning the Bridge: Four Tips to Resign the Correct Way

Aug. 3, 2011 - PRLog -- EATONTOWN, NJ – With recent studies showing that more than one-third of the workforce is looking for new positions, a local employment expert is reporting that many employees are handling their resignation incorrectly. Frank Wyckoff, President of The Wyckoff Group (TWG) – Snelling Staffing based in Eatontown, explains the proper way to resign from your job.

“When you turn in your resignation, you don’t want to burn any bridges,” says Wyckoff. “You want to manage your resignation with care and leave your position on a positive note.”

Wyckoff offers professionals four tips on how to handle resignations the correct way:

1.   Prepare Before Your Announcement – Create an inventory of every project you are currently working on along with a complete contact list and save it in a manila folder in your desk. Include status updates and specific notes on your files as well as a cell phone number where your replacement can contact you. This will help your employer feel more at ease about the change.

2.   Provide Proper Notice – Resigning unexpectedly may leave your employer overwhelmed. For many positions, it’s appropriate to offer at least a two week notice. For managers and higher level professionals, it’s suitable to provide around a 30 day notice. When resigning, inform your employer that you’ve created an inventory for your position and will assist the transition in any way possible.

3.   Write A Resignation Letter – A resignation letter gives your employer an official document for your departure. In your letter, make it clear that you are thankful for the opportunity and avoid criticizing the company in any way. Discussing specific experiences is more appropriate for the exit interview.  

4.   Turn Down Counter Offers – If you’ve given your notice, don’t accept any counter offers. Your resignation indicates you don’t intend to stay with the company for the long haul. While you’ve returned to your normal activities, your employer is discretely looking for your replacement.  

“Your employer will respect your decision if you conduct yourself professionally,” adds Wyckoff. “When you leave your position, maintain contact with your former employer to maintain a positive business connection.”  

TWG is a national company comprised of Snelling franchise offices with emphasis in New Jersey and King of Prussia and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. For more information about TWG, please visit www.snellingnj.com or call 732.389.0300.

About The Wyckoff Group (TWG) – Snelling Staffing

The Wyckoff Group (TWG) - Snelling Staffing is a full service staffing firm offering Temporary, Temp-to-Hire, Career Placement, Executive Recruiting and Consulting Services. Local businesses use TWG to contract qualified individuals in a diverse range of positions including Administrative, Clerical, Light Industrial, Accounting & Finance, Legal and Biopharmaceutical work. TWG is a national company comprised of Snelling franchise offices with emphasis in New Jersey and King of Prussia and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We have the people, expertise, network and resources to help you meet your business, professional and career goals. For more information, please call 732.389.0300 or visit www.snellingnj.com.

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Snelling Staffing - The Wyckoff Group is a full service staffing firm offering Temporary, Temp-to-Hire, Career Placement, Executive Recruiting and Consulting Services.