Workplace Etiquette Written Essentials Cover Letter Resume References Job Application Thank You Letters Resignation Letters 1Ms. Karabelas - '09

When an expected or unexpected circumstance is causing you to leave your current job RESIGNATION  Resign  to leave, quit, give up 2Ms. Karabelas - '09

Why is it important? 1)You must leave gracefully and not burn any bridges 3) Your letter will be placed in a permanent exit file that can be used up to 10 years later as a reference resource 4) Your job history will forever follow you and the world is much smaller than you think 5) Professional courtesy 3Ms. Karabelas - '09

Why is it important (cont..) 6) Maintain a positive professional reputation 7) First and last impressions are just as important as your work performance 8) Helps you maintain a network of friendly coworkers and managers 9) You may re-apply to this company years down 4Ms. Karabelas - '09

Some Reasons for Resigning? No need to feel guilty this happens all the time… Work location is too far from home Better opportunity came up Salary and benefits were not satisfactory Continuance of education Maternity leave Personal last minute resignation You plainly don’t like your job or boss Change in career paths all together 5Ms. Karabelas - '09

WARNING!!!!! ***If you happen to leave due to bad circumstances and want to sue your employer (for example-sexual harassment), you should consult your lawyer BEFORE you SAY or DO anything! 6Ms. Karabelas - '09

Pay Careful Attention to.. Never leave on bad terms Be certain about your reasons for leaving Give enough notice to your supervisor (at least 2-4 weeks -but consult your employee handbook in case they expect more) Offer to help your current employer find your replacement (whatever will make this transition easier) You must work devotedly until the very last day Before walking out make sure you have key contact information of supervisors and co-workers for your references/contact list..and be sure you thank them for their help and support Keep your story straight! Rumor travels fast in a work place!!! 7Ms. Karabelas - '09

When and How do I do it?!?!? Ask your employer or appropriate supervisor for a meeting in his/her office. (Think about what you will say to them before doing this) Announce or confirm your resignation. You then can offer your letter of resignation at the end of the meeting. Remember to be: -Calm -Professional -Positive -Brief The announcement meeting, letter, and how you function in the company from the time of your announcement to the time you leave will form a lasting impression. 8Ms. Karabelas - '09

What to be ready for after you announce your resignation? You may be asked to be escorted out of the building ASAP Make sure you copy and remove your personal files and software from your computer. Remove personal belongings and information and get your workspace organized. Guilt from co-workers or your boss & GOSSIP A counter-offer to entice you to stay (BEWARE) 75% of employees who accept counter-offers are no longer there 6 months later! An exit interview – be careful and professional (BEWARE) 9Ms. Karabelas - '09

What do I include in the letter? 1 st Paragraph State your intention of leaving the company, which position you currently attain, and when your exact date of departure will be. 2 nd Paragraph If you feel comfortable give a reason why you are leaving. To leave on a good note, compliment or refer to a positive that your current job experience has given you. 3 rd Paragraph Thank your supervisors and the company and end with a good will statement. 10Ms. Karabelas - '09

SAMPLE 1- General Purpose Letter March 25, 2009 Suzy Jones Blue River Company South Road Mason, IL Dear Ms. Jones: This is my formal notification that I am resigning from Blue River Company as Administrative Assistant. Friday, June 25, 2009 will be my last day of employment. I appreciate the opportunities I have been given here, and wish you much success in the future. Sincerely, (your signature) Amy Linden 11Ms. Karabelas - '09

SAMPLE 2- Better Position March 25, 2009 Suzy Jones Blue River Company South Road Mason, IL Dear Ms. Jones: Please accept this letter as my two-weeks notice of resignation. My last day of work will be Friday, June 25, While I have been satisfied at Blue River Company, I have decided to make this move to advance my career. I have enjoyed working with you and appreciate the opportunities I have been given here. I will do my best to complete my current projects prior to my final day here. Please let me know if you need my help in any other way. Sincerely, (your signature) Amy Linden 12Ms. Karabelas - '09

SAMPLE 3- No Notice March 25, 2009 Suzy Jones Blue River Company South Road Mason, IL Dear Ms. Jones: Please accept this as my resignation to Blue River Company, effective immediately. I regret the inconvenience it will cause, but circumstances have left me no choice. I will be in contact with Human Resources to make arrangements for my final paycheck. If problems arise you may give me a call at 847— and I will do my best to help. Sincerely, (your signature) Amy Linden 13Ms. Karabelas - '09

SAMPLE 4- Expressing Regret March 25, 2009 Suzy Jones Blue River Company South Road Mason, IL Dear Ms. Jones: I regret to inform you that I’m leaving Blue River Company. I have enjoyed working with everyone and have learned a great deal. Please be informed that I am resigning as of Friday, June 25, I will do my best to finish my current assignments before my last day. Sincerely, (your signature) Amy Linden 14Ms. Karabelas - '09

**A VERY PROFESSIONAL LETTER** March 25, 2009 Suzy Jones ABC Company South Road Mason, IL Dear Ms. Jones: After a considerable amount of thought and careful consideration, I have decided to pursue a different career and resign from my position as Software Engineer with ABC Company. Following with company policy, I am giving you a full month’s notice that my last day will be April 25, I want to stress that my decision to follow a different career path has nothing to do with my experiences at ABC Company. I have gained countless work experiences and a great deal of knowledge at this company, and I am very grateful for the opportunity I had to work here, in addition to the many friendships that I have gained. I would recommend this company highly to anyone searching for a career in Software Engineering. If there is anything I can do to make my last weeks here more productive, I would be glad to honor any suggestions you might have. Thank you again for the opportunity to work at such a wonderful company. Sincerely, (your signature) Amy Linden 15Ms. Karabelas - '09

Always Remember… Your job history follows you around, and frequently the world is much smaller than you think. First and last impressions are very important! 16Ms. Karabelas - '09

How to Address an Envelope 17Ms. Karabelas - '09