What to Say When Quitting a Job Over Text: 6 Best Examples
Leaving a job can be a tough decision, especially when circumstances make a face-to-face conversation difficult or uncomfortable. Whether you’re moving on to a better opportunity or need to step away for personal reasons, it’s important to communicate your departure clearly and respectfully.
Quitting a job over text might feel impersonal, but with the right words, you can still maintain professionalism and leave on good terms. In this article, we’ll explore exactly what to say when quitting a job over text, so you can part ways with your employer smoothly.
Considerations Before Quitting Over Text
Quitting a job over text is a significant decision that should be carefully weighed. While it might seem like the quickest and easiest way to resign, it’s essential to consider a few key factors before sending that message.
1. Assess the Appropriateness of Quitting Over Text
Before deciding to quit over text, think about the nature of your job and the relationship you have with your employer. In some cases, such as remote positions or jobs where communication primarily occurs via text, resigning this way might be acceptable.
However, in more formal or traditional work environments, it might be seen as unprofessional. Consider if your resignation could potentially burn bridges or impact future job references.
2. Consider the Consequences
Quitting over text can have repercussions. It may leave a negative impression, which could affect your professional reputation. Your employer might feel disrespected by the lack of a personal conversation, and this could lead to strained relationships or a loss of valuable networking opportunities in the future. Reflect on whether the convenience of texting outweighs the possible long-term consequences.
3. Evaluate Your Emotional State
Resigning from a job can be an emotional process, especially if you’re leaving due to dissatisfaction, stress, or conflict. Make sure you’re not making a hasty decision driven by temporary emotions. If you’re feeling particularly frustrated or upset, it might be wise to wait until you’ve had time to cool down before composing your resignation text. This will help ensure that your message is professional and not driven by emotion.
4. Think About Timing
Timing is crucial when quitting a job, and this holds true even when you’re doing it over text. Avoid sending your resignation late at night, during weekends, or at a time when it might catch your employer off guard.
Choose a time when your boss is likely to be available to read and respond to your message. Consider how your departure might affect your team, and try to give as much notice as possible to help with the transition.
5. Reflect on Alternatives
Before settling on quitting via text, consider if there are other ways to resign that might be more appropriate. A phone call or a video chat can provide a more personal touch, even if you can’t meet face-to-face.
If you’re uncomfortable with direct confrontation, you could also send an email that allows you to articulate your reasons for leaving in more detail while still maintaining professionalism. Quitting over text should be a last resort, not the first option.
How to Craft a Professional Resignation Text
When you decide to quit your job over text, crafting a professional resignation message is crucial. The way you word your text can impact how your employer perceives your departure and may influence your future references. Here’s how to ensure your resignation text is respectful, clear, and professional.
1. Keep It Concise and to the Point
When writing a resignation text, brevity is key. Unlike a formal resignation letter, which may include more details, your text should be straightforward. Begin by stating your intention to resign clearly. Avoid long explanations or unnecessary details that could complicate the message. Your goal is to communicate your decision effectively in a few sentences.
Example: “Hi [Boss’s Name], I wanted to let you know that I am resigning from my position at [Company Name], effective [last working day].”
2. Maintain a Respectful and Professional Tone
Even though you’re sending a text, it’s important to keep the tone professional. Avoid using casual language, slang, or emojis, as these can come across as unprofessional. Instead, use polite and formal language, similar to what you would use in an email or a formal letter. A respectful tone helps ensure that you leave a positive impression, even if the circumstances of your departure are less than ideal.
Example: “Thank you for the opportunity to work at [Company Name]. I appreciate the experience and support during my time here.”
3. State the Effective Date of Your Resignation
Clearly stating your last working day is an essential part of your resignation text. This allows your employer to understand your timeline and make necessary arrangements for your departure. If possible, provide at least two weeks’ notice, as this is standard practice and demonstrates your professionalism. However, if circumstances require an immediate departure, communicate that directly and respectfully.
Example: “My last working day will be [specific date]. Please let me know how I can assist with the transition.”
4. Express Gratitude
Including a note of gratitude in your resignation text can soften the impact of your departure and leave a positive final impression. Even if your experience wasn’t entirely positive, find something to be thankful for, whether it’s the opportunity, the experience you gained, or the relationships you built. This simple gesture can go a long way in maintaining good relationships with your former employer and colleagues.
Example: “I’m grateful for the chance to work with such a supportive team and for the skills I’ve developed here.”
5. Offer Assistance During the Transition
If possible, offer to help with the transition process in your resignation text. This could include training a replacement, handing over your duties, or completing outstanding projects. While your offer might not always be accepted, it shows that you’re leaving on good terms and are considerate of the company’s needs, which can help preserve your professional reputation.
Example: “Please let me know how I can assist with a smooth transition during my remaining time.”
6. End on a Positive Note
Ending your resignation text on a positive note can help leave the door open for future opportunities or networking. Expressing good wishes for the company’s future or expressing hope to stay in touch with your colleagues can demonstrate that you’re parting on amicable terms. This is especially important if you might cross paths with your employer or colleagues in the future.
Example: “I wish the company continued success and hope we can stay in touch.”
Examples of What to Say When Quitting Over Text
Crafting the right message when quitting a job over text can be challenging. The key is to be clear, professional, and concise. Below are several examples of how you can structure your resignation text for different situations, ensuring you leave on a positive note.
1. Simple and Direct Resignation Text
If your situation is straightforward and there are no complex circumstances surrounding your decision to leave, a simple and direct text can be the best way to go. This approach minimizes confusion and allows your employer to understand your intentions immediately. This type of message is ideal when you have a professional relationship that doesn’t require extensive explanations or emotional farewells.
Example:
Dear [Boss’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I have decided to resign from my position at [Company Name], effective [last working day]. Thank you for the opportunity to work with the team. I appreciate the experience I’ve gained during my time here.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
2. Casual Resignation Text
A casual resignation text is suitable when you have a close, informal relationship with your employer or work in an environment that embraces a more relaxed communication style. This approach allows you to convey your decision to leave without the rigidity of formal language, making the resignation feel more personal and aligned with the culture of your workplace.
Example:
Hey [Boss’s Name],
I wanted to let you know that I’ll be leaving [Company Name], with my last day being [last working day]. It’s been great working with you and the team, and I’ll miss you all. Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help before I go.
Cheers,
[Your Name]
3. Resignation Text with a Brief Explanation
In some cases, it might be appropriate to include a brief explanation for your resignation, particularly if it’s related to personal circumstances or a specific situation. This can help your employer understand your decision without feeling blindsided. It’s important to keep the explanation short and avoid going into too much detail, which could lead to unnecessary complications or misunderstandings.
Example:
Dear [Boss’s Name],
I’m sorry to inform you that I will be resigning from my position at [Company Name], effective [last working day]. Due to [brief reason, e.g., personal reasons, family obligations], I need to step away from my role. I’m grateful for the support and opportunities you’ve provided during my time here.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Appreciative Resignation Text
If your experience with the company has been largely positive, expressing appreciation and gratitude in your resignation text can leave a lasting good impression. This approach not only reinforces the professional tone of your resignation but also ensures that you’re remembered positively, which can be beneficial for future references or networking opportunities.
Example:
Dear [Boss’s Name],
I wanted to express my deepest thanks for the opportunity to be a part of [Company Name]. It’s with mixed emotions that I inform you of my resignation, effective [last working day]. The experience and growth I’ve gained here have been invaluable, and I’m truly grateful for all the support and guidance. Please let me know how I can assist during this transition.
With sincere appreciation,
[Your Name]
5. Resignation Text for a Toxic Work Environment
Leaving a job due to a toxic work environment can be tricky, especially if you want to exit gracefully without burning bridges. It’s crucial to remain professional and avoid detailing negative experiences in your resignation text. Instead, focus on your decision to move on, keeping the message positive and forward-looking. This approach helps you leave with dignity and may even encourage the employer to reflect on the work environment.
Example:
Dear [Boss’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position at [Company Name], effective [last working day]. I believe it’s best for me to pursue new opportunities at this time. I appreciate the experiences I’ve had here and wish the company continued success.
Regards,
[Your Name]
6. Resignation Text When You Need to Leave Immediately
In situations where you need to resign immediately, whether due to personal emergencies or other urgent reasons, it’s essential to communicate this clearly while acknowledging the potential inconvenience to your employer. This type of message should be direct and to the point, with an apology for the short notice to show that you understand the impact of your sudden departure.
Example:
Dear [Boss’s Name],
Unfortunately, I need to resign from my position at [Company Name] effective immediately due to unforeseen family emergencies that require my immediate attention. I apologize for the short notice and any inconvenience this may cause. I’m thankful for the opportunity to have worked with you and the team.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
What to Avoid Saying in a Resignation Text
When resigning from a job, especially over text, it’s essential to maintain professionalism and avoid saying things that could damage your reputation or strain relationships. Here are key points to consider regarding what you should avoid saying in a resignation text:
1. Criticisms of the Company or Colleagues
It might be tempting to express your frustrations or air grievances about the company or specific colleagues, especially if you’re leaving due to a negative experience. However, criticizing the company, your boss, or your coworkers in a resignation text is unprofessional and can burn bridges.
Even if you feel justified in your complaints, sharing them in your resignation text can lead to lasting damage to your professional reputation and could hinder future job prospects.
2. Threats or Ultimatums
Using your resignation text to issue threats or ultimatums, such as demanding better pay, improved working conditions, or specific concessions as a condition for staying, is unprofessional and unlikely to yield positive results. This approach can backfire, causing you to lose respect and potentially tarnishing your reputation in the industry.
3. Detailed Explanations of Personal Issues
While it’s sometimes appropriate to briefly mention personal reasons for leaving, providing detailed explanations of your personal life or struggles in a resignation text is unnecessary and can make the message feel overly emotional or unprofessional. Your employer doesn’t need to know every detail of your situation, and sharing too much can create awkwardness or discomfort.
4.. Emotional or Impulsive Language
Resigning from a job can be an emotional experience, especially if you’re leaving under difficult circumstances. However, it’s crucial to avoid letting emotions dictate the tone of your resignation text. Emotional or impulsive language, such as expressing anger, sadness, or frustration, can lead to regrettable statements that you can’t take back.
5. Future Plans or Job Offers
While you might be excited about your next job or future plans, it’s best to avoid mentioning them in your resignation text. Sharing details about your new job, salary, or career moves can come across as boastful and might create unnecessary tension with your soon-to-be former employer.
6. Apologies for Resigning
While it’s important to be polite and considerate, apologizing for your decision to resign can undermine your message and suggest that you’re unsure or hesitant about your decision. Your resignation text should reflect your confidence and professionalism, not uncertainty.
After Sending the Resignation Text
Sending a resignation text is just the first step in the process of leaving your job. What you do afterward is equally important in ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining your professional reputation. Here’s a guide on what to do after you’ve sent your resignation text:
1. Follow Up with Formal Written Resignation (If Needed)
In some workplaces, a text message might not be considered a formal resignation. It’s good practice to follow up with a written resignation letter, especially if your employer requires official documentation for HR purposes.
This letter should reiterate the key details from your text, such as your last working day and your reasons for leaving (if mentioned). Sending a formal letter, either via email or as a printed document, adds a level of professionalism and ensures there is no ambiguity about your resignation.
How to Do It: Draft a brief, formal letter that echoes the content of your resignation text. Include your name, position, the date of resignation, and your last working day. You might also want to express gratitude for the opportunity to work at the company, even if you’ve already done so in your text message.
2. Prepare for the Final Steps in the Job Transition
Once your resignation is official, your focus should shift to ensuring a smooth transition. This might involve handing over your responsibilities, training your replacement, or completing any outstanding projects. Even if you’ve resigned over text, showing that you’re committed to leaving the company in good standing is crucial.
3. Communicate with Colleagues and Clients
After sending your resignation text, it’s important to communicate your departure to colleagues and clients (if applicable). This ensures that everyone is informed and can prepare for the transition. How you handle these communications can impact your professional relationships and your reputation in the industry.
How to Do It: Send individual or group emails to inform colleagues of your departure. Keep your message positive and brief, focusing on the gratitude for the time spent working together. If you have clients who need to be informed, work with your employer to determine the best way to communicate your departure and ensure a smooth handover.
Example Email to Colleagues:
Dear Team,
I wanted to let you know that I have decided to resign from my position at [Company Name], with my last day being [last working day]. It’s been a pleasure working with such a talented and supportive team. I’ve learned a lot and will carry these experiences with me. I hope we can stay in touch.
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
4. Ensure a Smooth Handover of Responsibilities
One of the most important tasks after resigning is ensuring that all your responsibilities are adequately handed over to someone else. This could involve documenting your processes, creating guides, or holding handover meetings. The goal is to make the transition as seamless as possible so that your departure doesn’t negatively impact the team or the company.
How to Do It: Create a detailed handover document that includes all your responsibilities, ongoing projects, and any important contacts or information that your successor will need. Arrange meetings with your colleagues or replacement to go over this information and answer any questions they might have.
Handover Checklist Example:
- List of ongoing projects and their current status
- Key contacts and client information
- Login details and access to necessary systems or software
- Any pending deadlines or upcoming tasks
- Instructions for any routine procedures or responsibilities
