Writing A Resignation Letter For A Job You Just Started

Updated 27 December 2022

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Starting a new job can be an exciting time, but sometimes circumstances may cause you to leave the role before you have even really started. Perhaps the company is not a good fit, or the work environment is not what you were expecting. Understanding how to resign from the job properly may help you leave the position professionally. In this article, we discuss why it is important to write a resignation letter for a job you just started, outline how to write this letter, provide you with a template and share some tips for resigning.

Reason To Write A Resignation Letter For A Job You Just Started?

It is still important to write a resignation letter for a job you recently joined, even if you have only been in your job for a short time. A resignation letter is a formal document that an employee uses to notify their employer that they are leaving their current position. It also provides you and your employer with a clear record of your departure.

In addition, it can help improve your relationship with your employer, making it more likely for you to receive positive references in the future. For these reasons, it is always best to write a professional and courteous resignation letter when you plan to leave your current position. It demonstrates respect and forms part of your employer's opinion of you.

What To Include In Your Resignation Letter

It is important to include the following elements in your letter:

State the date of your letter. Include the date you are submitting your letter to your employer, as this is when your notice period begins.
Address your letter to a specific recipient. You can address your resignation letter to your direct manager, but sometimes it might be more appropriate to address it to the HR department.
Make a formal statement of resignation. Near the top of the letter, make it clear that you are resigning from your position with the company.
Be clear about the date of your last day. Indicate when your last day of work is. Consider any resignation notice requirements (check your employment agreement or contract), or clearly state why you are unable to meet the notice period.
Include a statement of gratitude. This is an excellent opportunity to thank everyone who has supported you and made your time with the company memorable. For example, this might be a good place to include how much you enjoyed working for the organisation or how well it prepared you for future employment.
Formally sign your letter. Your resignation letter ends with your formal, handwritten signature. If you cannot sign it in ink because you are delivering it digitally, type out your full name at the bottom of the page instead and include a closing statement such as 'Sincerely'.

Personalising Your Letter Further

If you want to personalise it more, you could consider including some extra information, such as the following:

Explain why you are leaving. Letting your employer know why you are leaving can demonstrate respect and help you leave on good terms.
Include specifics. Provide a specific example of why you have enjoyed your time with the company and how it has been a great learning experience.
Propose for the handover of your role. You may want to include a draft of how you plan to hand over your responsibilities, keeping in mind that your employer may wish to do things another way. This can be an excellent opportunity to show how much you care about your work and how dedicated you are to making sure things go smoothly.
Include how you hope to stay in touch. Especially if the industry you work in is small, maintaining a relationship with past employers and colleagues can help career opportunities in the future.

How To Write A Resignation Letter For A Job You Just Started In 7 Steps

Follow these steps to write an appropriate resignation letter:

1. Be sure of your decision

It is often better to delay quitting your new employment until you have had a chance to explore alternative possibilities. Consider consulting with your employer before resigning if you are feeling overwhelmed by your current responsibilities. It is also important to be confident about your decision, especially if you feel unsafe or unhappy at work.

2. Allow enough time

If feasible, give at least two weeks' notice of your resignation. This demonstrates your appreciation for the business and allows them to prepare for your departure. It might also be helpful in maintaining a positive working relationship with your manager and coworkers.

3. Format your letter

Use a standard business letter to write your resignation letter. Start by adding a header with your first and last name, professional title, company name, address and contact information. Below the date, include the recipient's name, job title, company name and address.

4. Address the letter

To start your letter, call the recipient by their name. Use a formal salutation, such as 'Dear', followed by the name and a comma. You may use either their first name or a formal title with their last name depending on your relationship with them.

5. Explain your resignation

State that you are writing to submit your resignation and provide a clear explanation for your decision. While it is not necessary to give any specifics, providing at least some context for your departure is crucial. Include the date on which you are going to leave the company. Thank them for allowing you to work with them.

6. Finish your letter

You may also use a closing statement to reaffirm your apologies for leaving and appreciation for the opportunity. If they need to contact you after your last day, consider offering them your contact information again. Add a final remark, such as 'Sincerely', followed by a comma. Provide room for your signature then sign off with your first and last name.

7. Proofread your writing

Make sure your letter is free of grammatical mistakes. Read your message out loud to check that it makes sense and is easily understood. Make any necessary corrections, then print and sign your letter. Seal the letter inside an envelope to deliver during your meeting with your employer.

Template Of Resignation Letter

Use this template as a guide for writing the resignation letter for the job you just started:

[Your name]
[Your job title]
[Company name]
[Your address]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]

[Date]

[Recipient's name]
[Recipient's current position]
[Company name]
[Company address]

Dear [recipient's name],

[Begin your letter with a brief explanation of why you are writing. Include your planned resignation date, as well as a brief explanation about why you have decided to leave the role.]

[Thank your employer for the opportunity they provided you to work with them and if appropriate, include an offer to assist in the handover of your tasks. Include how you can be contacted after you have left the company.]

Sincerely,
[Your signed name]
[Your typed name]

Example Resignation Letter

You may want to keep your resignation letter simple and clear. Here is an example resignation letter:

Dev Sharma
Software developer
Tanzom Technologies
7/26 Zakia Street, New Delhi
9733456328
dev.tanzomtechnologies@email.com

March 27, 2022

Sameer Modak
HR manager
Tanzom Technologies
7/26 Zakia Street, New Delhi

Dear Sameer,

I am writing to inform you of my resignation from the position of software developer with Tanzom Technologies. My last day of work is April 15, 2022.

I would like to thank you for the opportunity to work with Tanzom Technologies. I am grateful for the chance to be a part of the company. I have decided that this is not the right position for me, and I am moving on to new opportunities.

Once again, thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Dev Sharma

Tips For Resigning From A Job You Recently Joined

As you are writing your resignation letter, keep these things in mind:

Give your employer a minimum of two weeks' notice. It is typically beneficial to provide your employer with sufficient notice. Aim for at least two weeks if you can.
Make sure you have a solid plan for handing over your responsibilities. This demonstrates professionalism and helps alleviate the inconvenience your departure may cause.
End your resignation letter with a positive statement and formal signature. If you deliver your letter in person, try to sign it with a pen. If you are emailing it, include your full name.
Keep your resignation letter short and direct. Keep the contents of your letter to the required information.
Be courteous and professional. This resignation letter is an opportunity to maintain a good relationship with your employer.

Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are associated with Indeed.