What to include in a resignation letter
- A clear statement. Say that you are resigning and from which position. Leave no room for doubt.
- Your notice period and last working day. State the exact date, so HR and your manager can plan.
- A thank-you. One or two sincere sentences about what you valued: the team, the experience, the support.
- A handover offer. Offer to document your work, train a colleague or wrap up key tasks.
- A courteous close. Your name, plus contact details if you want to stay in touch.
How much notice should you give?
Check your employment contract first. It usually states the notice period, and local labor law may set a minimum. In the United States, two weeks is the common courtesy for many roles. In many other countries, including the UAE, contracts often require a month or more. Confirm the exact last working day with HR before you hand the letter in.
What to leave out
- Complaints and criticism. The letter stays in your employee file. If you have concerns, raise them in an exit interview or a separate conversation.
- Long explanations. A reason is optional. One neutral sentence is enough.
- Details about your next employer, unless you are comfortable sharing them.
How to hand it in
Tell your manager in person or on a video call before you send the letter. Then send the letter by email, or print and sign it, following your company's process. Keep a copy for your records.
Example opening
"Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as Marketing Coordinator at Acme. In line with my one-month notice period, my last working day will be 30 June."
Short, specific and polite letters protect your reputation and your references. You never know when you will work with the same people again.