How to hand in your notice

You’ve accepted a job offer. The contract is signed. But now comes the part many candidates find difficult — handing in your notice.

It’s normal to feel unsure about how to resign. Do you speak to your manager first or send an email? What should you say? How much notice do you need to give? And how do you leave without burning bridges.

In this blog, we’ll cover every step of the process, including what to do before you resign, how to manage the conversation, how to write a professional resignation letter, and how to leave your current job on good terms.

Why resigning professionally matters

Resigning might feel like a simple step, but getting it wrong can lead to setbacks. Here’s how to prepare properly so you can move on smoothly and with confidence.

Protecting your professional reputation

Leaving your job the right way shows integrity. Employers, colleagues and managers tend to remember how someone behaves at the end of their time in a role. If you act with respect and professionalism, you’re more likely to receive a strong reference and maintain valuable connections.

It’s not just about the role you’re leaving. The impression you leave behind follows you into your next opportunity. Acting professionally now means you carry a reputation for being reliable and respectful.

Even in challenging work environments, your notice period is an opportunity to demonstrate maturity. Keep standards high, communicate clearly, and aim to leave the business better than you found it.

Keeping the door open for future opportunities

Resigning respectfully helps keep professional relationships intact. You may work with your colleagues again, apply to the same employer in the future, or rely on them for a reference.

Maintaining those relationships takes very little effort but can pay off later. Whether it’s a short recommendation, a freelance referral or a future job lead, staying connected gives you more options.

It also leaves you with peace of mind. Knowing you left the role on the best possible terms means no awkwardness if paths cross again in the future.

Avoiding legal and financial consequences

Your employment contract likely includes important details about your notice period, final pay, outstanding holiday, and other exit obligations. Ignoring these can cause delays, disputes or legal risks.

You might lose pay or benefits by leaving incorrectly. Worse still, you could breach contractual terms around confidentiality or client contact.

Understanding and following your obligations ensures a clean and professional exit. If anything is unclear, ask HR for clarification before taking action.

Before you hand in your notice

Resigning isn’t something to rush. Taking time to prepare can help you avoid surprises, respond with confidence, and make a smooth transition. Here’s what to think about before making it official.

Make sure you're ready to quit

Only resign once your new offer is confirmed in writing and the contract is signed. It’s not uncommon for offers to fall through at the last minute. Verbal promises aren’t enough.

Before handing in your notice, be confident that the role is the right move. Have you considered what you’re leaving behind, and are you clear on why you’re making the change?

Once your decision is final, and the paperwork is secure, you’re ready to begin the resignation process.

Prepare for your employer's reaction

Every manager handles resignations differently. Some will take the news calmly. Others might respond with frustration, surprise or disappointment.

Prepare yourself for a range of reactions. If things get emotional, stay calm and professional. It’s your decision to move on and you’re not responsible for managing anyone’s feelings.

By thinking ahead, you’ll be better equipped to manage the conversation and maintain control of the situation.

Decide how you'd react to a counter offer

Many employers make counter offers to retain staff. This could be in the form of a pay rise, a new title or flexible hours. It can be flattering — but is it enough?

Before you resign, ask yourself how you would respond if you were offered more to stay. Would it solve the underlying reasons you're leaving?

Being prepared helps you avoid making a rushed decision. Counteroffers can delay, not fix, long-term dissatisfaction. Think about what matters most to you.

Read more: Why you shouldn't accept an employer counter-offer

Things to avoid when resigning

Knowing what not to do can be just as important as getting the steps right. Here are the common pitfalls to steer clear of if you want to leave on good terms.

Refrain from using negative language

No matter the reason for your departure, your resignation isn’t the time to complain. Keep the conversation and resignation letter focused on your decision to move forward, not on grievances.

If you’re invited to an exit interview, use it to provide honest but constructive feedback. Avoid personal criticism and keep the tone respectful.

What you say now could influence references and how your departure is communicated to others internally.

Be sure not to take their reaction personally

Your resignation might be met with surprise or frustration. Don’t take it personally. Managers have to consider how your departure affects the wider team.

Remain calm, respectful and firm in your decision. Focus on keeping the conversation professional and avoid getting drawn into emotion or confrontation.

How you handle the situation says a lot about your maturity and can influence how you’re remembered.

Step-by-step guide to handing in your notice

Resigning doesn’t need to be stressful. Follow these simple steps to make sure you leave professionally, respectfully and with everything in order.

Read your current contract

Start by reviewing your employment contract. Check how much notice you need to give, whether unused holiday is paid out, and if there are clauses about confidentiality or working for competitors.

You might also have clauses about returning equipment, bonuses or benefits. These are easy to overlook but can affect your final pay or transition.

Being clear on your obligations gives you confidence and ensures that you leave in line with company policy.

Make sure you don’t burn your bridges

Continue to work hard and support your team throughout your notice period. Even if you’re ready to move on, how you leave matters.

Being late, disengaged or negative in your final weeks can undo years of good work. Maintain your professionalism and leave with your head held high.

Your final impression is just as important as your first.

Plan a good time to speak to your manager

Don’t resign in a rush. Arrange a private meeting at a time when your manager is more likely to be available and focused. Avoid busy or stressful periods.

If you're remote, book a video call rather than resigning by email. A personal approach is more respectful and gives both sides a chance to talk openly.

Keep the meeting brief, polite and professional.

Prepare for the conversation

Plan what you want to say before the meeting. Keep it simple: thank them for the opportunity, explain that you’ve accepted another role, and confirm that you’re giving notice as outlined in your contract.

Be ready to answer a few questions or clarify details about your transition.

Avoid over-explaining or getting into unnecessary personal details. You’re making a professional decision, and that’s enough.

Write your notice letter/email

Follow up the conversation with a short formal resignation letter or email. Include the date, your intention to resign, your notice period, your final working day, and a polite thank you.

You don’t need to explain your reasons for leaving. Keep it professional and straightforward.

This written confirmation helps both parties stay aligned on your leaving date and responsibilities.

Honour your notice period

Once your notice is in, continue to deliver your work to the best of your ability. Complete projects, meet deadlines, and stay involved until your final day.

This reinforces your professionalism and sets a good example. It also makes life easier for your colleagues and your manager.

The way you finish a role often shapes how people talk about you in the future.

Put together a job handover

Create a clear handover document. Include a summary of ongoing projects, key contacts, deadlines and anything your replacement or team needs to know.

Leave instructions that are easy to follow. Offer to answer any questions or walk someone through your work if time allows.

A strong handover shows you care about the team and want to leave the business in a good place.

Prepare for an exit interview

If you’re offered an exit interview, take it seriously. Use it as a chance to give constructive feedback and thank the company for the opportunity.

Stick to facts, offer practical suggestions, and avoid emotional or personal complaints.

Your comments might help improve things for others, and a balanced approach reflects well on you.

Leave on a positive note

On your final day, take the time to say goodbye properly. Thank your colleagues, manager and anyone you’ve worked closely with.

You can send a short message or email and share your contact details if you’d like to stay in touch.

Leaving on good terms helps keep your professional network strong — and might lead to opportunities later.

FAQs about resigning

How do you hand in your notice at work?

Book a private meeting with your manager. Tell them you’ve accepted another role and are handing in your notice. Follow this up with a formal resignation letter or email.

What should I say when handing in my notice?

Keep it polite and simple. Let them know you’ve enjoyed your time there but you’re moving on. Thank them for the opportunity and confirm your final working date.

When should I hand in my notice?

Only resign once your new offer is confirmed in writing and you’ve signed the contract. Make sure your notice period aligns with your new start date.

How do I hand in my notice via email?

If you can’t meet in person, write a clear and professional email stating that you’re resigning. Include the notice period and your final day, and thank them for the role.

Should I hand in my notice before signing a contract?

No. Always wait until your new contract is signed. It ensures you’re protected in case anything changes.

Can I hand in my notice while off sick?

Yes, you can resign while off sick. But it’s best to discuss it with HR or your manager directly to avoid confusion or delays.

What to avoid when handing in your notice?

Avoid negativity, being vague about dates, or leaving without a proper handover. Keep things clear, respectful and organised.

How long is a typical notice period in the UK?

Most contracts specify one month. If you’ve worked more than a month and have no written contract, you’re legally required to give one week’s notice.

Resigning professionally helps you move on with confidence. By preparing in advance, handling the conversation calmly, and leaving with respect, you protect your career and your reputation.

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