Whether you’re leaving your employer on good terms or not, it’s proper protocol to submit a letter of resignation. You might be tempted to quickly write your resignation letter and move on, but this formal good-bye is worth further consideration. While the purpose of the resignation letter is to inform your employer that you’re quitting, you can use it as an opportunity to build relationships and leave on a positive note. 

If you’re not sure how to write a resignation letter, use this sample for inspiration:

Roberta Jones
18 Hillside Road | Sometown, MA 55555 | Phone: 555-555-5555 | jones@somedomain.com

Sept. 23, 2011

Ms. Joyce Michaels
CEO
ABC Company
15 Main St.
Sometown, MA 55555

Dear Joyce,

Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as staff accountant. My last day of employment will be Oct. 7, 2011.

I received an offer to serve as senior accountant of a Fortune 500 company, and after careful consideration, I realize that this opportunity is too exciting for me to decline.

It has been a pleasure working with you and your team over the last three years. One of the highlights of my career was collaborating with you to automate ABC Company’s accounting, financial and balance systems and setting up your accounting infrastructure. Your company is poised for continued growth and I wish you much success with your upcoming acquisition of XYZ Company.

I would like to help with the transition of my accounting duties so that systems continue to function smoothly after my departure. I am available to help recruit and train my replacement, and I will make certain that all reporting and records are updated before my last day of work.

Joyce, thank you again for the opportunity to work for ABC Company. I wish you and your staff all the best and I look forward to staying in touch with you. You can email me anytime at jones@somedomain.com or call me at 555-555-5555.

Sincerely,

Roberta Jones