How to write a resignation letter without burning bridges

This is the only required portion of the resignation letter, Vipond said.

It's also the most important. It will establish your final day on the job to human resources and your boss.

If you have a contract with stipulations on your end date, reference that in this initial part of the letter.

Dear (boss' name),

Please accept this letter as a notice of my resignation from (your position). Per my employment contract, I am giving two weeks notice. My last day will be (two weeks from today).

"The transition section is very helpful" to demonstrate your value to the company even as you're leaving, Vipond said.

I will spend the next two weeks of my time at (company) completing all outstanding projects and ensuring that my replacement will be able to hit the ground running on day one. I'm available to aid in the transition in any other way before (last day of work).

While you certainly don't need to explore your entire time at the company, saying thanks and listing some of your accomplishments in the written notice is a good idea.

It has been a pleasure working with you and your team the past (amount of time you've been at the company). This was an incredible opportunity to build my career, and I will always cherish (two or three things you accomplished during this role). The lessons I've learned at (company), including (some skills you've learned at the job), have been valuable.

Thank you very much for the opportunities and support during my time at (company). I wish you and the team success and the best of luck, and hope we can keep in touch.

Sincerely,
(Your name)

For some industries where employees are required to leave right away, like banking and law, Vipond said notice and, optionally, a brief thanks may be the only part of the letter.

This is all the letter needs:

Dear (boss' name),

Please accept this as a notice of resignation, effective immediately.

Thank you for all of the opportunities you've given to me in my (amount of time) here.

Sincerely,

(Your name)