“So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, adieu…”

So, the time has come to say goodbye to your workplace, your boss and your team. But you’re scared of creating a situation that offends, angers and potentially offsides all the people you have worked your ass off to keep happy for the past however many years?

Tricky! Right? Actually no, it really doesn’t have to be!

Resigning has become part and parcel of taking on a job. With the average length of time an employee in Australia is expected to stay in their role being 5 years (or less), resigning from your role shouldn’t come as the detrimental shock to your employer as it would have 20 years ago.

However, in saying that, resigning is always a nerve wracking experience for both employee and employer, which is why we have pulled together some of our top tips for how you can do it in the most professional manner possible to ensure the smooth exit from your old role into your new.

1. Before knocking on the boss’s door, make sure you have finalised all details of your new gig (we definitely recommend having one) before making any sort of announcement. These details include: your letter of employment (signed), benefits package, salary and start date.

2. Take a little time to plan ahead to take the stress out of it – who can take over your responsibilities? How much transition time do you need? What unfinished projects do you have and what are your recommendations for the best way forward? Write it all down.

3. Write your resignation letter (yes, you need one of these too)! Keep it short and simple, much like a brief thank you note which includes the date of your last day on the job (make sure you check your contract to ensure the timeframes align).

4. Decide what you want your story to be. How will you explain your departure to your boss, your colleagues and anyone else who asks? Whatever the reason, ensure your story to all involved is consistent and keep your reasons positive (remember we’re trying NOT to burn the bridge here).

5. Be prepared. Consider what your decision will be if your boss makes you a counter-offer once you’ve announced your news. Will you take it? Will you refuse? What are your reasons and terms on these decisions?

6. The time has come. Before telling ANYONE (even your favourite co-worker), you should first tell your manager – this is done out of both respect and protocol. Keep the conversation light and positive, share with them the letter and your plan to manage your role whilst they look for someone else.

7. Once the conversation has been had, ask your boss how they would like you to tell the rest of the team. Align plans and move forward ensuring you remain professional, positive and enthusiastic about your work until your final day.