Accepting a new opportunity is an exciting step in anyone’s career. However, before you can start your next chapter, there is one important task to navigate carefully: handing in your notice.
Over the years, I’ve seen many professionals focus heavily on securing a new role but give little thought to how they leave their current employer. In reality, the way you resign can have a lasting impact on your professional reputation.
My advice is simple: be professional, respectful, and prepared.
Firstly, ensure you have formally accepted your new position and received a written contract before submitting your resignation. While verbal agreements are encouraging, it’s important to have certainty before making such a significant decision.
Secondly, arrange a face-to-face meeting with your manager wherever possible. Your manager deserves to hear the news directly from you rather than through office gossip or an email landing unexpectedly in their inbox. Be honest about your decision, thank them for the opportunities you’ve been given, and remain positive throughout the conversation.
It is also worth preparing for a counteroffer. Many employers will understandably want to retain strong performers and may offer an increase in salary, additional benefits, or a revised role to encourage you to stay. Before entering the resignation meeting, be clear with yourself about why you decided to explore opportunities in the first place. If your reasons extend beyond compensation, a counteroffer may only provide a short-term solution to a longer-term issue.
Following the meeting, submit a formal resignation letter confirming your intention to leave and your final working day in line with your contractual notice period.
It’s also important to remember that your attitude during your notice period matters. Continue to perform at a high level, support your colleagues, and help with any handover requirements. Employers often remember how people leave more than how they joined.
Take ownership of your departure by documenting key projects, sharing knowledge with colleagues, and making the transition as smooth as possible. A professional handover demonstrates integrity and leaves a positive final impression on both your manager and wider team.
The professional world is smaller than many people think. Former managers can become future clients, colleagues, references, or even employers again.
Leaving a role on good terms protects your reputation, maintains valuable relationships, and ensures you start your next opportunity with confidence.
A new job may be the destination, but how you leave your current one is still a key part of the journey.
If you’re considering your next career move, or you’ve recently accepted a new opportunity and would like advice on navigating your resignation professionally, Marc Norton would be happy to have a confidential conversation.
Email: marc@artemis-humancapital.com