todd baer

You have made the decision that you would like to move on, all that's left is telling your supervisor. Whether or not you have a great relationship with your boss, resignation letters can be intimidating, even when you are fully prepared to high tail it out of your current restaurant. Fortunately, there isn't much to writing a resignation letter outside of a few simple guidelines. When writing a letter of resignation, it's important to keep it brief and focused. It should also be positive. I've prepared this simple guide to help point you in the right direction, complete with a few sample resignation letters!

A resignation letter is a mere formality, but it is a sign of courtesy to your current employer and is often expected by them. Remember, while you may be less than happy with your boss or your current circumstances, the letter is written and will probably be placed in your employee file. In other words, letters can be permanent keep them non-confrontational. Once you have made the decision to move on, there's no point in criticizing your employer or your job. It is important to view the letter as a way to part amicably with the company, possibly securing the ability to use them as a reference later in your career.

At the very least, a resignation letter should include the date your resignation is effective, the position you are resigning from, and the date of your expected last day (generally, two weeks from the resignation date). You can also let the employer know you appreciate your time with the company.

There is no real need to say much else. Resignation letters are fairly cut and dry. Sometimes people will include a few nice things about the company that they are leaving. If you have it in you, you should too. Thank them for the opportunities that they have given you and the things that you have learned. Remember that it is not unusual to cross paths with people from previous companies, especially in the restaurant industry. It is definitely in your best interest to keep the bridge intact.

Resignation Letter Examples

1) Basic
Dear (manager name),
I hereby tender my resignation from my position as Associate Manager. My last day will be on June 15th, two weeks from today, as per our contractual agreement.
Sincerely,
(your name)

2) Due to Relocation
Dear (manager name),
This resignation letter is to inform you that my last day at (restaurant name) will be June 15th, two weeks from today. I will be relocating to Orlando, FL to pursue a new endeavor. I have appreciated the opportunities and experiences that have been provided to me during my 3 years of service for (company name). If there is anything I can do to be of assistance during the transition, please let me know.
Sincerely,
(your name)

3) Heartfelt
Dear (manager name),
I am writing you to officially tender my resignation from (company name) effective Friday, June 15th, 2007. Working for (company name) has been a wonderful experience. I could not ask for a better group of colleagues. I have grown in many ways here and will always treasure the opportunities provided for me by (company name). I will be accepting a position as (position) with (company name). While I will miss my friends here at (company name), I feel that it is time for a new challenge and experience.
This decision was not an easy one, and involved many days and hours of thoughtful consideration, particularly with respect to my own plans for the future. Nevertheless, my decision is final. Please do not make this process more difficult than it need be with discussions of the reasons for my decision, or whether or not it can be changed. My main thoughts are now to work as hard as possible to wrap up my affairs here, and turn over my responsibilities as you direct.
Best Wishes,
(your name)

Resignation letters can be as much or as little as you would like. Keep them positive and remember that the end goal is to maintain a positive relationship with the employer while avoiding the necessity of the uncomfortable and awkward counteroffer refusal.