Resignation From a New Job Letter Example

Do you need to resign from a job you were recently hired for? Perhaps you just started a new job, and the position is not what you hoped it would be. Or maybe personal circumstances require you to resign from your new job. Either way, you want to resign as professionally and politely as possible.

Here's advice on how to resign from a new job, with tips for what to write and include in your resignation letter, and a sample letter to review.

Make Sure You Want to Leave

Before resigning, make sure leaving is definitely the right decision for you. Perhaps you could talk to your boss about modifying your responsibilities or your schedule? Or maybe you want to stick it out for a little while longer to see if things change.

Give Two Weeks' Notice If Possible

It is standard to give two weeks' notice when resigning. Just because you haven’t been at the job long, doesn’t mean this rule no longer applies. If you cannot give two weeks of notice for any reason, try to give as much notice as possible.

Speak with your boss in person, when possible, about your decision to resign. Be ready to explain your reason for resigning. Bring your formal resignation letter with you if you're meeting with your manager.

Use Business Letter Format for Your Resignation Letter

Your resignation letter should be a professional letter, written in business letter format. Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s information at the top. Use a professional salutation and a complimentary close. Be sure to sign your letter as well.

Keep it Short

Keep your letter brief. You can explain why you are resigning, but do not go into unnecessary detail. In the first paragraph, state the specific date you will be resigning. Again, try to give two weeks notice when possible.

Keep It Positive

Don’t say anything negative about the company in your letter, even if you were dissatisfied with the job. Remember that you may need to ask the employer for a letter of recommendation, or perhaps you’ll apply for another job at the company in the future. You might even use the letter to express gratitude for the opportunities you were given with the company.

Include Your Contact Information

Provide some form of personal contact information so that the employer can reach you once you leave the company. You might put a personal email or cell phone number in the letter. If you’ve been on the job long enough, you might offer to help train a new employee. However, if the job is very new, this might not apply.

Resignation From a New Job Letter Sample

This is an example of a resignation letter for a new job. Download the resignation letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

Sending an Email Message

If you’re emailing your letter, be sure to format your email message and include the important information. Also, proofing the message before you send it to double-check that you have all the information you need is a good idea.