How to Resign From Your Job in the UK: Notice Period, Resignation Letter Example and What to Say
Handing in your notice can be nerve-wracking, even when you are delighted about the new job. A calm, professional resignation protects your reputation and your reference. Here is how to do it well.
Check your contract first
Your contract sets out your notice period. It might be one week, one month or three months or more for senior roles. The statutory minimum is one week once you have worked for a month, rising with length of service. Read the terms on garden leave, holiday pay and any restrictions after you leave.
Wait until you have it in writing
Do not resign until your new offer is confirmed in writing and any checks, such as references, are complete.
Tell your manager first
Ask for a private conversation. Keep it short and positive. For example: "I wanted you to hear it from me first. I have accepted a new role and I will be handing in my resignation today. I am grateful for what I have learned here and I want to make the handover as smooth as possible."
Resignation letter example
"Dear [manager], Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [job title]. My last working day will be [date], in line with my contract. Thank you for the opportunities I have had here. I will do everything I can to hand over my work. Yours sincerely, [name]."
Do not burn bridges
Avoid complaining or telling colleagues about problems. Keep your tone professional. You may need a reference or want to work with these people again.
Plan your handover
Document processes, update files, introduce key contacts and offer to help train a replacement.
Holiday and final pay
You are entitled to be paid for untaken holiday when you leave. Check your final payslip and ask for your P45.
Everyone in this situation feels alone at some point, and you are not. If this helped, share it with someone who is job hunting, and tell us in the comments what has worked for you.
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