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During the job: I want to quit - How do resignation notices really work?
For first-timers or early-career professionals, what should one know about submitting a resignation notice?
Are there common mistakes people make during this process that affect future references or career progression?
For Singaporeans reading this, would appreciate if you could give insights localised within Singapore's context ~
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5 answers
Georgie Ariano
Lead an Enterprise Sales Organization for a Software Company
3
Answers
Boonton, New Jersey
Updated
Georgie’s Answer
Hehe, Take the high road. This is a time to focus on what you learned in the role and the growth you gained. Getting personal and "calling out" problems is not the way to do things. Times, intiatives and leaders change. Stay professional and align to closing your "book of business" properly for the next person that is eager to take on your role. What is no longer for you, could be right for someone else. Similar to the role you are moving on to.
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Never burn your bridges - always be professional even if the employer or manager is not. I agree with Morgan that you should usually have a conversation with your manager before offering a written resignation, even if you feel they may not deserve it. It will leave a positive impression with them. Depending on the field you are in and where, the community may be very small and word often gets around. I would prefer folks to see me as always operating with integrity and professionalism since it is pretty likely I am going to work with or for them again in the future. I was in this very situation in the past. I was let go during a "reduction in force", but was rehired on a different team a month or so later because I was a known quantity - professional, capable, and easy to work with. If I had reacted poorly, I never would have had that opportunity. Oh, and don't worry to much, getting this right is hard the first few times. I know I messed up real bad the first time I had to go through the resignation process.
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Morgan’s Answer
Submit your resignation in writing, keep it professional and concise, and follow your contract’s notice period even if emotions are running high. Give your manager a heads-up in person (or via a call) before sending the formal letter—surprises tend to burn bridges. Common mistakes include oversharing reasons, venting frustrations, or quitting impulsively, all of which can hurt references later. Finish strong by documenting handovers, thanking people you worked with, and leaving a calm, reliable final impression—people remember how you exit.
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Jayda’s Answer
Check your Employee Handbook and employment contract to make sure you follow company rules. It's important to give your manager and HR a formal written resignation notice. Leave on a positive note. Keep doing your best work until your last day, help your team by writing down any useful processes, and thank your coworkers for their support.
Some people make mistakes when resigning, like sharing too much about why they're leaving, bringing up new complaints, or losing focus on their job duties. These actions can hurt your future career and references. Stay supportive and cooperative during your resignation period.
Some people make mistakes when resigning, like sharing too much about why they're leaving, bringing up new complaints, or losing focus on their job duties. These actions can hurt your future career and references. Stay supportive and cooperative during your resignation period.
Updated
P’s Answer
- Check your contract/employment agreement: Find your notice period if mentioned (usually 2 weeks - 1 month). Your last day is calculated from the day you hand in your resignation.
- Tell your team lead/manager first: Don't let them hear it from the others in the office. Have a quick 1-on-1, then send the official email.
- Don’t burn bridges: Even if you’re unhappy, stay professional. A bad reputation spreads fast in local industries, networks, etc.
- The Handover: Don't slack off during your last weeks. Leave clear notes, transition plan, etc so your team is setup for success.
- Tell your team lead/manager first: Don't let them hear it from the others in the office. Have a quick 1-on-1, then send the official email.
- Don’t burn bridges: Even if you’re unhappy, stay professional. A bad reputation spreads fast in local industries, networks, etc.
- The Handover: Don't slack off during your last weeks. Leave clear notes, transition plan, etc so your team is setup for success.