Quitting your job isn’t something most of us do too often, so when the time comes, it can feel awkward, even stressful. This blog explains how to resign from a job in the UK in a way that’s professional, straightforward and drama-free.
Perhaps you’ve found something new, or maybe things just aren’t working out. Either way, there’s a right way to go about it.
The average turnover for UK workers is 34%, according to CIPD. This is 27.4% who move to a new employer and 6.6% who are not working one year later – for example, due to study, retirement or long-term sickness.
Resigning properly isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about showing respect for your team, protecting your future references, and leaving on the best possible note.
Think of it like the last chapter of a book – it should leave a good impression – not burn bridges. Let’s dive in.
Key takeaways: How to resign from a job (UK)
- Always read your contract before you quit – your notice period might be longer than you expect
- Let your manager know before you tell anyone else
- Put your resignation in writing after you’ve spoken to your boss
- Stay professional during your notice period – even if you’re counting down the days
- The way you leave can shape how people remember you
Start by being sure
Before you hand in your notice, take a breath.
Are you sure this is what you want to do? Have you accepted another offer in writing? Do you have enough savings if you’re leaving without something else lined up?
If you’re still unsure, speak to someone you trust before making any decisions.
In most cases, once you resign, it’s hard to undo.
We also recommend reading this: Should I Quit My Job? 5 Signs It’s Time To Leave!
Look at your contract
Your contract holds the key details about how to resign.
It should tell you how much notice you need to give and if there are any clauses around leaving – like non-compete rules or garden leave.
Some jobs require a month’s notice, others longer. If you’re still within a probation period, the notice might be shorter.
For more information related to what notice periods are and how they work, take a look at our blog.
Pick your moment
It’s best to avoid dropping the news when your manager’s drowning in deadlines or when the office is in chaos.
Try to catch them on a quieter day, ideally early in the week and early in the day.
If you work remotely, book a quick video call. It’s better than doing it over email or message.
Tell your manager before anyone else
Your manager should be the first person you tell.
Even if your work bestie already knows you’re looking elsewhere, keep the official news under wraps until you’ve spoken to your boss.
Be clear but polite. You might say something like:
“I’ve been offered a new role and I’ve decided to accept it. I’d like to hand in my notice – thank you for all your support while I’ve been here.”
There’s no need to go into every reason unless you’re asked. Keep it respectful.
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Put it in writing
After that conversation, follow up with a formal resignation letter.
It doesn’t need to be fancy. Just include your role, your notice period and your intended last day.
For a more detailed steer, check out our guide to the perfect letter of resignation.
What to expect after you resign
Once you’ve handed in your notice, your manager might want to discuss next steps – like who you’ll hand work over to or how your exit will be shared with the team.
They may also ask you to go on garden leave.
This means you won’t be working during your notice period, but you’ll still be paid. It’s more common in jobs where you handle sensitive info or client relationships.
Don’t mentally check out
Even if your brain’s already in your new job, try to stay focused.
Finish your work properly, write clear handover notes and be helpful where you can. It’s not just for them – it reflects well on you too.
There are a number of last day of work dos and don’ts to be aware of – but what it boils down to is leaving on a positive and professional note.
Mistakes to avoid when resigning
With that in mind, quitting a job isn’t just about what you do – it’s also about what you don’t do.
First, don’t make the announcement on social media until everything is final.
You never know who might see it or how your current employer might feel about it. It’s safer to wait until you’ve officially left.
Next, avoid saying negative things about your manager or the company – especially if emotions are running high.
Even if you’ve had a rough time, keeping things civil helps protect your reputation.
Also, don’t tell colleagues before you’ve had that conversation with your boss. Word travels fast, and it’s awkward if your manager finds out from someone else.
Finally, resist the urge to quit over text or email without speaking to anyone. It might feel easier in the moment, but it can come off as unprofessional and abrupt.
FAQs: How to resign from a job (UK)
How do you politely quit your job?
Start with a short conversation. You could say, “I’ve really valued my time here, but I’ve decided to accept another opportunity. I’d like to hand in my notice.” Then follow up with a resignation letter.
Is it illegal to quit a job without notice in the UK?
Not illegal, but it can be a breach of contract. Your employer could withhold final pay or take action, though that’s rare. Try to give the notice you agreed to when you joined.
When should I tell my boss I’m resigning?
Only once you’ve accepted a new job offer in writing and confirmed your start date. That way, you’re not caught out if something changes.
What is the best thing to say when resigning?
Keep it simple and polite. Something like, “I’ve decided to move on to a new opportunity and would like to hand in my notice. I’ve learned a lot here and really appreciate the experience.”
Final thoughts: How to resign from a job professionally
We hope you found this guide useful. If so, there is lots of useful career-focused advice throughout our blog.
For example:
- How To Tell If An Interview Went Well: Good and Bad Signs
- How To Get A Job With No Experience: Can You Do It?
- CAR Method: How To Use the CAR Technique in Interviews
Resigning from a job might feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
If you handle it the right way – calmly, respectfully and clearly – you’ll come out the other side with your reputation intact and your next chapter ready to begin.
And remember, people move around more than ever now. Chances are you’ll cross paths with your old colleagues again. Make sure they remember you as someone who left the right way.
Need help preparing for your next role? Contact us today or find out more about our bespoke CV writing and careers coaching services.
