Key elements of a career change resignation letter
It’s been said that “Your life doesn’t get better by chance; it gets better by change.”
This rings true in the Hong Kong job market where 42% of professionals are actively looking for a new job after a period of market instability.
If you’ve chosen to transition to a new industry or a new role, good for you!
While a career change is exciting, feeling mixed emotions is natural. It can feel nerve-wracking to say the least, especially when you’re grappling with how to tell your boss and how to clearly articulate your decision.
A career change resignation letter is essential in maintaining positive relationships, securing future references and ensuring a smooth transition.
Consider this blog your guide to crafting a polished and professional career change resignation letter. We’ll explore practical solutions in the form of templates, tips and best practices to help you move on to your next chapter without burning any bridges.
Key elements of a career change resignation letter
Jessica Yeung is an Associate Director at Robert Half and a specialised financial services recruiter. She encourages professionals not to discount the power of a positive resignation letter.
She says, “We all know that first impressions count, but final impressions can have a lasting impact, too. Employees often worry about how their boss will react or how their team will cope when they resign. Ultimately, how you handle the conversation will have a big impact on how your managers and your peers respond.”
“If you’re changing careers, a career change resignation letter is essential. It doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should reflect professionalism, respect and gratitude. Focus on the essentials - this way, if your current manager references your letter when asked to provide a reference in the future, your professionalism will shine through.”
Unsure how to format your resignation? Minimise stress and maximise success with the below inclusions:
Formal notice
After starting your letter with all the formal inclusions (your name and address, as well as your manager’s title and details), clearly state your resignation.
Be specific – mention your intention to resign as well as your last working day.
Be sure to adhere to the notice period that is stated in your employment contract.
Jessica stresses that a career change resignation letter should not be the first your manager hears of your decision to resign.
She says, “Before submitting your resignation letter, schedule a one-on-one meeting with your manager. This is the forum to let them know that you have decided to resign. Of course, keep the conversation positive – there’s nothing to be gained from highlighting any company failings that have led to this decision.”
“The letter itself should serve as a formal recap of this discussion – nothing should come as a surprise to your manager. Having the meeting first will allow you to deliver your resignation letter with confidence.”
Related: Why do resignation notices need an effective date?
Expression of gratitude
Expressing your thanks will go a long way in maintaining a positive rapport with your manager (it also strengthens your professional reputation).
Outline your appreciation for the opportunities, skills and experiences gained during your time with the company.
As Jessica says, “Don’t be afraid to be specific.”
“Don’t settle for a generic ‘thank you note’. If you can reference specific examples of things you’ve learnt, or memorable experiences you had, you’re sure to stand out. You don’t need to gush over your thanks, but a brief, personalised paragraph will help to show professional courtesy while strengthening a genuine connection.”
Related: How to write a 'thank you’ resignation letter (with examples)
Reason for leaving (optional)
Your initial meeting with your manager should provide a forum to explain your career change or role change.
While it’s not a mandatory inclusion within a career change resignation letter, you may choose to mention that you are transitioning to a new career path.
Jessica says, whatever you choose to say, keep it neutral and professional.
“You aren’t obligated to explain why you are leaving or which company you will be working for. While you might choose to disclose this with your team it’s not essential to put it in writing. My general rule recommendation is to share what you feel comfortable sharing.”
Offer to assist in the transition
Feeling guilt about leaving your team?
Indicating a willingness to help with the handover process is a great way to ensure a smooth transition.
Realistically, you are probably the ideal person to help train your replacement. By noting your willingness to lend a hand in your career change resignation letter, you can show your manager that a seamless transition is important to you.
Jessica says, “It means a great deal to employers when departing employees want to help bring new recruits up to speed. It shows that you are committed to the continued success of your team and the company, creating a strong final impression.”
Expert tip: If a replacement is not found before you leave, consider noting in your letter that you are available to contact even after you have left the business.
Closing statement
Respectfully end your letter with a polite closing statement and your signature.
Ensure that you’ve kept your career change resignation letter to a single page.
Jessica says, “Well wishes for the company are always encouraged - it helps to close the letter on a positive note.”
“If I’ve learnt anything in business it’s that it’s a small world. People change companies and jobs all the time – you never know where your paths might cross again. You may want to work for the company again in the future, or you could find yourself applying for a job where your current manager is part of the hiring team. Your resignation letter shouldn’t burn bridges – it should solidify your connections."
Related: Hong Kong resignation letter templates
Career change resignation letter template
Need some extra help tying all the key elements together?
See our tried and tested template below:
[Current Date]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Subject: Resignation Letter
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], with my last working day being [Last Working Day], in accordance with my notice period.
I am deeply grateful for my time at [Company Name]. Over the past [X] years, I have gained invaluable experience working alongside an incredible team. I am particularly grateful for the support, mentorship and professional growth that I have experienced here.
I have decided to transition into a new career path that aligns with my long-term aspirations. While I am excited about this next step, I will always appreciate the knowledge and skills that I have developed here at [Company Name].
To ensure a seamless transition, I am more than happy to assist in handing over my responsibilities and supporting the team during this period. Please let me know how I can best facilitate the process.
Thank you once again for the opportunities and support. I hope to stay in touch and wish [Company Name] continued success in the future.
Best regards,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
Common mistakes to avoid
“If you keep your resignation letter professional, polite and personal, there’s not a lot you can get wrong,” says Jessica.
To help your letter land well, be sure to avoid some of the common mistakes:
Being overly emotional or negative – It compromises your professionalism and relationships.
Over-explaining or apologising for leaving – It makes you appear uncertain and unconfident. Position your move as a positive and strategic one!
Not giving enough notice – It signals a lack of respect, reliability and accountability.
Not checking company resignation policies – It could put you in breach of notice periods, exit procedures and contractual obligations.
Related: What to include in a short notice resignation letter
Additional considerations
When it comes to career change resignation letters, Jessica says she gets asked two common questions. Let’s take a look at them below, along with her recommendations:
“What do I say if my boss reacts negatively?”
Jessica says, “While this is unfortunate, it’s important that you remain calm and confident in your decisions. Respectfully acknowledge their concerns and avoid getting defensive or emotional. Emphasise that your decision is based on personal and professional growth and re-state your willingness to assist with a smooth handover.”
“How do I leave the door open for future networking opportunities?”
Jessica says, “This comes down to tone and choice of words. Expressing gratitude for your experiences and learnings at the company is key! Professionalism and thanks will help to ensure that you leave on good terms, making it easier to connect for future opportunities or collaborations. Don’t forget to pass on your contact information if appropriate.”
Career changes and resignations are not events that anyone takes lightly. While this time of transition can be exciting, it can be anxiety-inducing too. If you’re worried about how the news will land with your boss and your team, it’s important to know how to craft the perfect career change resignation letter. It may only be one page, but it’s one critical strategy for safeguarding your reputation and your connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I write a resignation letter due to a career change?
Before submitting your resignation letter, schedule a one-on-one meeting with your manager. This is the forum to let them know that you have decided to resign. Of course, keep the conversation positive.
The letter itself should serve as a formal recap of this discussion – nothing should come as a surprise to your manager. Having the meeting first will allow you to deliver your resignation letter with confidence.
What to include in a career change resignation letter?
Formal notice
Expression of gratitude
Reason for leaving (optional)
Offer to assist in the transition
Closing statement
How to maintain a positive relationship with your employer after a career change resignation?
This comes down to tone and choice of words. Expressing gratitude for your experiences and learnings at the company is key! Professionalism and thanks will help to ensure that you leave on good terms, making it easier to connect for future opportunities or collaborations.
How do I resign for a career change?
Before submitting your resignation letter, schedule a one-on-one meeting with your manager. This is the forum to let them know that you have decided to resign.
The letter itself should serve as a formal recap of this discussion.
How do I write a resignation letter due to a better opportunity?
It’s likely your employer will store your resignation letter with other employee files, and it may be referred to in the future if another company requests a reference.
This being the case, a poorly written or overly critical resignation letter has the potential to impact your career long after you’ve moved on from your current job.
Even if the new job promises a better opportunity, be sure to stay positive and professional in your resignation letter. Don’t use it as an outlet to highlight the downsides of your job (or the perks of the new job) – instead show thanks and gratitude for your time at the company.
