How to write a resignation letter UK, with an example
Are you looking for guidance on how to write the perfect resignation letter for a UK business? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
The basics of writing a resignation letter are much the same regardless of where you’re based. However, there are some key differences that you’ll need to take into account when crafting your letter for a UK audience.
Here are our top tips for how to write the perfect resignation letter UK:
- Check your contract
- Keep it short and sweet
- Be professional
- Thank your employer
Before you start writing your resignation letter
First and foremost, it’s important to check your contract of employment. This will help you to understand how much notice you’re required to give, and what, if any, restrictions there are on how and when you can resign.
If you’re not sure where to find your contract, or what it says, your HR department will be able to help you out. Discussing your contract with HR might raise eyebrows, but you are well within your right to understand your employment contract.
If you do not have an HR department and work for a small business, speak to someone you trust. You may trust your manager or someone of a similar level to you. Speaking to someone who understands your situation from within your current company will give you some perspective on whether this is the right time or not.
What to write in a UK resignation letter
Now that you know what your contract says and how much notice you need to give, it’s time to start writing.
Keep it short and sweet
There’s no need to go into great detail about why you’re resigning or how you feel. Just state the facts plainly and leave it at that. The facts usually are:
- That you want to resign
- Your notice period
- When you would like to finish your employment with your current employer
Be professional
Your letter of resignation is not the time to air your grievances or have a final dig at your employer. Keep it professional and polite, even if you’re leaving under less than ideal circumstances.
Thank your employer
Even if you’re unhappy in your current role, there’s no need to be rude or ungrateful. Take the opportunity to thank your employer for the opportunity to work for them.
End on a positive note
If you can, try to end your letter on a positive note. For example, you might say that you’re grateful for the experience you’ve gained or the skills you’ve developed during your time with the company.
What to avoid in a resignation letter
When writing your resignation letter, there are a few things you should avoid doing:
When you would like to finish your employment with your current employer
Don’t badmouth your employer or colleagues
Even if you’re unhappy in your current role, there’s no need to be rude or ungrateful. You are getting out of this situation, it is a time to be happy, not burn your bridges.
Don’t tell them much about your new role
If you have already secured a new job, there’s no need to go into too much detail about it in your resignation letter. A simple statement that you have found another opportunity is enough.
Spelling and grammar mistakes
This one should go without saying, but be sure to proofread your letter before you send it. Resignation letters are usually short, so there’s no excuse for spelling or grammar mistakes.
UK resignation letter template
To help you get started, we’ve put together a UK resignation letter template for you to use.
Dear __________,
I am writing to let you know that I am resigning from my role as ___________ at ___________. My notice period is _____ weeks/months, and my last day of employment will be ___________.
Thank you for the opportunity to work here, and I wish the company all the best in the future.
Yours sincerely,
___________
That is it, the worst thing you can do is overcomplicate your resignation letter. It is a statement of fact that you are leaving, it is up to your current employer to decide what to do next.
Writing formal letters in the UK is slightly different from other countries. Letters of gratitude, letters of approval, and covering letters are all different in different countries, so if you intend to write letters to international companies or clients it is useful to know the difference.
Following these simple tips will help to ensure that you write the perfect resignation letter for the UK. Good luck!
