How to resign with grace

You just got offered a new job and are itching to tell your soon-to-be-ex-boss what an idiot you think he is. But before you do that, pause.

As wonderful as it might feel to say all the things you have struggled to keep to yourself, you are likely to regret your tirade, probably quite soon.

Kelly MD Graham Bentley had some tips on how to leave a company on a positive note.

- No matter what may have happened before you resign, there is never any need for anything but courtesy and proper etiquette when initiating the resignation process.

- Take some time to plan your resignation. It should include a face-to-face meeting with your manager or managers during which you offer to help to train a prospective replacement.

After you have informed your company of your intention to resign, you need to write a letter of resignation that includes:

1. An announcement of your intention to resign;
2. The date on which your resignation will be effective;
3. Details of the positive experience you have gained while working for your current employers;
4. Your willingness to ensure a smooth handover; and
5. How grateful you are to have had the opportunity to work for them.

Most companies require that you give one month's notice of your intention to leave. This is not a time to take things easy and shirk your responsibilities.

The way you behave during your notice period is an indication of the kind of worker you are at any time. Most industries are interconnected networks in which news and reputation spreads fast - and it is vital to continue working as a dedicated member of your team until the last day.