Changing jobs

Resignation letter templates [2026 Update]

Carol Yeoh — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Resignation letter templates [2026 Update] Carol Yeoh

Resigning from a job is more than sending a short email. In 2026, professionals navigate hybrid work norms, digital handovers, and compliance requirements across Asia Pacific markets. A clear resignation letter sets the tone for a smooth exit and protects your reputation.

This article explains what to include, shares updated templates and outlines practical steps for offboarding. You’ll also find guidance on planning your next move.

Browse the article with the following links:

Why a resignation letter matters
What is the resignation letter format?
What to consider when sending out a resignation letter in 2026?
Standard resignation letter template
Resignation letter template for career advancement
Resignation letter template for pursuing a role with shorter commute
Resignation letter template when giving advance notice
Resignation letter to leave an unsuitable role

Find your next opportunity

Why a resignation letter matters

Your resignation letter is not just a goodbye; it is a statement that echoes your work ethic and commitment. They are important for several reasons:

Professionalism: A resignation letter provides a formal, written record of your intention to leave the company. It is an essential part of maintaining professionalism, ensuring that you are departing on a positive note.
Clear communication: A resignation letter clarifies the terms of your departure, including your final working day and any other important information regarding your exit.
Legal compliance: In some cases, your employment contract requires written notice as an official document. A letter helps avoid disputes about notice periods or final pay.
Future opportunities: A polite, well-written letter keeps relationships positive, which is useful for references, networking, or even returning to the company later.

Resignation letter format: Key elements of a resignation letter

Formal announcement: A clear statement that the employee is resigning from their position.
Notice period: A mention of the notice period (often specified in the employee’s contract) and the final working day.
Gratitude: A polite expression of appreciation for the opportunities, experiences, or professional growth gained during employment.
Offer of assistance: Some resignation letters offer to help with the transition period or aid in finding or training a replacement.
Closing: End your resignation letter with a professional tone. Use a polite and respectful closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name. This helps maintain a respectful and professional relationship, which may come in handy in the future for references or networking.

A well-crafted resignation letter reflects professionalism and ensures a positive departure from the company. It’s a key formal document in any career transition, helping to preserve the employee's reputation and relationships with the employer and colleagues.

Modern considerations for 2026

Email vs printed letters

Email is widely accepted for formal notice. Use a clear subject line and attach a PDF if a formal documentation is required by HR. Keep the content to three or four short paragraphs.
Remote/hybrid etiquette

Inform your direct manager via a meeting or video call before sending the official notice. This maintains respect and prevents surprises.

5 resignation letter templates

In most instances, a simple, professional resignation letter will suffice. By carefully considering the template that resonates with your situation and customising it with your personal details, you can navigate this process with confidence and grace, setting the stage for a smooth transition.

Even though you may be leaving due to personal grievances, you must not bring these to light in your resignation letter with negative comments about your employer or the organisation. You should discuss any further points in your exit interviews.

Here is a compilation of formal resignation letter templates to ease the pressure off you when writing your professional resignation letter. Using these examples of resignation letters, you can edit and personalise, where relevant, your situation.

1) Standard resignation letter template for all situations

Dear [Manager’s Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from my position as [job title] with [company name]. My final day at work will be [date], in line with my notice period.

Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to [company name] over the past [time in employment]. I have gained valuable experience and enjoyed working with the team. These learnings will support my future career growth.

Over the next [notice period in weeks], I will do my best to ensure a smooth handover and assist with any transition requirements. Please let me know if there is anything further I can do.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

2) Resignation letter template for career advancement

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to formally notify my resignation from my position as [job title] with [company name]. My last day at work will be [date], in accordance with my notice period.

After careful consideration, I have decided to pursue an opportunity that aligns more closely with my long-term career goals. I am grateful for the support and experiences I have had at [company name], which have contributed significantly to my professional growth.

I remain committed to supporting a smooth transition during my notice period.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

3) Resignation letter template for pursuing a new role with a shorter commute

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to confirm my resignation from my position as [job title] with [company name]. My last working day will be [date], as per my notice period.

I have accepted a new role that significantly reduces my commute, allowing me to achieve better work-life balance. I appreciate the opportunities and support provided during my time at [company name].

I will assist with the handover process to ensure a smooth transition and contribute to the company success during my final days.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

4) Resignation letter template when giving advance notice

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to give advance notice of my resignation from [company], effective [date]. I understand that finding and onboarding a replacement may take time, and I want to support this process as much as possible.

I appreciate the guidance and opportunities I have received during my time here. Please let me know how I can assist with project handovers or any other transition tasks.

I wish the team continued success.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

5) Resignation letter template for a role that is not a good fit

Dear [Manager's Name],

I am writing to confirm my resignation from my position as [job title] at [company name], effective [date].

After careful consideration, I have concluded that the role does not align with my expectations and career objectives. I appreciate the valuable skills I have learned from the team, as well as their support and guidance provided during my time here.

I will assist with the transition process to ensure continuity.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Offboarding essentials

Before your last day, confirm final pay and remaining leave with HR, return company equipment, and remove personal data from work devices. Share handover notes and status trackers with owners and deadlines to ensure continuity.

Know your worth before your next move

Moving on to a new role? Download our Michael Page Salary Guide to ensure you are well-informed about current market rates. Get detailed insights into salary ranges across industries and roles to help you negotiate your next compensation package confidently.

FAQs

1) What should I include in a resignation letter?

In a resignation letter, you should include a clear statement that you’re resigning, mention your final working day, and include a short note of thanks. It’s also thoughtful to offer help with the handover so the transition goes smoothly.

2) Can I resign via email?

Yes, you can resign via email. Use a clear subject line, keep the message concise, and attach a PDF if your company archives letters. However, before sending the email, it’s best to inform your manager directly, ideally in person, so the email serves as a formal follow‑up rather than the first notice.

3) Can I write a letter to resign from a job immediately?

Yes, you can submit a resignation letter with immediate effect. However, whether you are permitted to leave right away depends on your employment contract and your company’s willingness to waive the notice period. Review your contractual obligations carefully, and if you must resign immediately, explain your reasons clearly and professionally to help maintain goodwill. Ultimately, the decision rests with your employer.

4 How much notice should I give in Hong Kong?

The best approach is to follow the notice period outlined in your employment contract, as this ensures you remain compliant with company policy. In many markets, professionals typically provide about 30 days’ notice, though this can vary depending on role and seniority. Whatever the length, make sure your resignation letter specifies your exact final working day so expectations are clear for both you and your employer.

5) Should I explain my reasons?

No, you do not have to explain your reasons for resigning. If your reasons are private, it’s perfectly fine to leave them out. If you do choose to share, keep the explanation brief and professional. What matters most in your resignation letter are the essentials: the dates, a note of gratitude, and clear information about the transition. Keep reasons brief or omit if private. Focus on the essentials: dates, gratitude and transition.

6) How do I handle client communications?

You should handle client communications by sending a concise handover email that follows your employer’s policy and data rules. In the message, thank the client, share the new contact person’s details, and outline any immediate next steps. This approach ensures continuity and reassures the client that their needs will be managed smoothly.

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Carol Yeoh

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Job hunting over 50 in Hong Kong: it isn't over yet

Anonymous — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:55:17 +0000

Job hunting over 50 in Hong Kong: it isn't over yet Anonymous (not verified)

Looking for a new job when you’re in your 50s, or older, can be a challenge, even if you have the necessary qualifications or work experience. There are jobs for those who are 50 years and older in Hong Kong, but sometimes, it takes a little extra searching to find the right fit.

In some cases, an age bias may be standing in the way. Employers may think that older workers are more expensive to hire and insure. In other cases, employers may question whether PMETs and other professionals over 50 have the relevant skills needed to do the job.

However, we have seen that not only are there plenty of exciting jobs for those over 50 in Hong Kong, experienced professionals are in high demand to help lead projects and provide specialised expertise. Here are some tips and advice if you are 50 years and older in Hong Kong and searching for a job.

Take a good look at your skill sets

What are your soft and hard skill sets that have gotten you this far in your career? And what are the skills that are missing in your CV? To maximise your appeal to potential employers, you need to convey an awareness of recent industry developments, a commitment to continual learning and an aptitude for using the latest technology.

If you have time, seek out options for upskilling or retraining in order to ensure your skill set stays relevant to the current job market. Here are some ways you can position yourself as a skilled, savvy and well informed professional:

Build your technology/computer skills with a short course
Boost your experience with common business technology
Read industry publications to stay up-to-date with the latest trends
Join a professional association and attend industry events
Upgrade an existing qualification, or invest in professional development to fill key skill gaps

Refresh your resume or CV

It’s something that many professionals overlook: the importance of a CV or resume in getting noticed for open jobs. Especially if it’s been awhile since you’ve done an overhaul of your CV, it’s time to go back to square one and create a CV that is eye-catching, well-presented and does well.

Here are a few practical tips for your CV:

Avoid specifying personal details such as your marital status or date of birth. Your name, address, phone number and email are sufficient.
Limit your employment history to the last 10-15 years, focusing on the skills and experience most relevant to the role.
Address any periods away from the workforce in your cover letter or at the interview, highlighting the skills you gained during that time.

Think outside the norm

If finding a suitable role is taking longer than anticipated, try expanding the scope of your job search. Could you transfer your skills to a new or related industry? Would you be willing to look for roles in a different location? If these options don’t suit your situation, consider these ways to keep your skills up to date and take the pressure off while you search for your ideal type of work:

Part time, contract, or temporary employment
Offering your services as a coach, mentor or tutor
Volunteer work
Becoming a board or community representative

Use your network

Many interviews for senior level positions are generated by personal recommendations; making networking even more important for mature age job seekers.

Let everyone know you are looking for a job, including former colleagues, alumni, family and friends. As well as sourcing potential job leads, you can also gain advice on prospective companies and positions on offer. You might also consider creating a profile on LinkedIn, which has the dual benefit of building your network and demonstrating an aptitude for technology.

Networks are also crucial at this juncture as personal connections play a strong part in opening up possibilities and opportunities. If your networks are not strong enough, it is still not too late to build on them now. Start by doing some pro-bono consulting work — this will help you to build connections across more platforms.

Job market outlook for those in Hong Kong

Mid to senior-level candidates in high-value products and R&D are highly sought-after in Hong Kong. Also, in rapidly developing economies like Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar, senior-level candidates will have the expertise and experience that companies are looking for to support and accelerate business growth. Especially in key sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, information technology, energy and construction.

Again, on the corporate side, employers are seeking professionals who possess robust management experience, regional based roles, clear thought processes, and a wealth of knowledge as well as understanding on the industry.

The competition for local talent in high value-added industries is fierce because there is no real push factor for many senior-level candidates. To overcome this challenge, some employers are now re-looking at their talent attraction strategies as well as considering alternative candidates from related and close sectors.

Stay positive and don’t lose motivation

In a competitive job market, finding the right role can take months. Feelings of frustration are natural. Try to remain patient and focus on the key strengths and experience you offer prospective employers. Project yourself as an energetic, motivated and upbeat professional who embraces change and is open to new challenges.

And whatever you do, don’t give up.

Start your job search

Michael Page

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How to write a farewell email to your colleagues (letter templates included)

Carol Yeoh — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 02:00:00 +0000

How to write a farewell email to your colleagues (letter templates included) Carol Yeoh

Leaving an organisation can be a delicate and complex situation. Navigating this transition requires careful thought and consideration, especially when it comes to maintaining positive relationships and taking the time to express gratitude.

A well-written farewell email to colleagues is an opportunity to part ways with your co-workers respectfully, thank them for their support, and strengthen your professional network. A few kind words can go a long way in showing your appreciation and leaving a positive impression.

Your goodbye message should be well-crafted to make a lasting impression, preserve work relationships and broaden your networking opportunities. You never know when you might need a reference or referral, so it’s important to keep those lines of communication open with a well-written goodbye email.

Related: How to quit a job

Farewell letter templates

The most efficient and professional way to bid the office farewell is an email that mentions your plans, expresses your gratitude, and lets colleagues know how to stay in touch.

When writing to your supervisor or manager, it's a good idea to send a separate farewell email. This helps maintain a professional relationship, which could benefit you for potential future opportunities.

A well-crafted goodbye email to your supervisor allows you to express appreciation, leave on a positive note, and maintain professional relationships that could prove valuable in the future.

While you've already handed in your resignation letter to your manager, a farewell email provides an opportunity to reinforce your gratitude and leave a positive impression. For colleagues, this email is a way to thank them for their support and provide details on how to stay in touch.

To give you an idea of what a farewell email should look like, here are four samples that you can adjust to your circumstances. Think of them as goodbye email templates that you can personalise as you see fit.

Related: Making a career change

Version 1: Farewell email for supervisors/managers

Subject line: Farewell and thank you

Dear [Supervisor's Name],

As my time at [Company Name] as a [job title] comes to an end, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the opportunity to work with you. Your leadership and guidance have been invaluable to me during my time here. I've learned so much and truly appreciate the support and encouragement you've provided.

I'm excited about the new opportunities ahead, but I will always be grateful for the experiences and lessons I've gained under your management. I hope we can stay in touch, and I would welcome the chance to collaborate again in the future.

Thank you once again for everything. I wish you and the team all the best in the future.

Warm regards,

[Your name]

Version 2: Farewell email for colleagues

Subject line: Farewell, and thank you for the memories!

Dear team,

It is with a heavy heart that I bid farewell to all of you after working together for [insert duration of your tenure] at [insert company name]. As some may already know, I have decided to pursue new opportunities and challenges. ;

I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for making my time at [insert company name] truly memorable. I have learned so much from each of you, and will cherish the memories we have created together. I am leaving with a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that I have contributed to the success of this organisation.

I wish you all the best for your future endeavours. Please keep in touch, and let's stay connected on [insert social media platform] or [insert personal email address].

Thank you once again for everything. I will miss all of you dearly.

Warm regards,

[Your name]

Version 3: Farewell email for colleagues

Subject line: Saying goodbye and expressing my appreciation

Dear all,

As some of you may know, I have resigned from my position at [insert company name] to pursue other opportunities. My last day here will be [insert last day].

I wanted to take a moment to thank all of you for making my time here a truly rewarding experience. Working alongside such a talented and dedicated team has been an honour and a privilege. I have learned so much from each of you, and I will always be grateful for the support and encouragement you have shown throughout my tenure.

Although I am sad to leave, I am excited about the future. I am confident that I will take the valuable skills and knowledge I have gained here and apply them to my future endeavours.

I wish you continued success and happiness in your careers and personal lives. Please keep in touch on [insert social media platform] or [insert personal email address].

Thank you again for everything.

Best regards,

[Your name]

Version 4: Farewell email for colleagues

Subject line: Farewell and a new chapter ahead

Dear colleagues,

I hope this email finds you well. As you may already know, I have resigned from my position at [insert company name]. My last day here will be [insert last day].

I wanted to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your support, guidance, and friendship during my time here. I truly enjoyed working with such a talented and dynamic team, and I will always cherish the memories we have created together.

While it is hard to say goodbye, I am excited about the new opportunities that lie ahead. I am confident that the skills and experience I have gained here will serve me well in my future endeavours. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and the relationships I have built, and will always look back on my time at [insert company name] with fondness.

Thank you again for everything. Let's stay connected. Here are my contact details: [insert social media platform] or [insert personal email address].

Best wishes,

[Your name]

Things to consider when writing a farewell message

The timing of your farewell email is crucial. Keep these best practices in mind when crafting a professional goodbye message.

1. Check with the boss before saying anything

Before sending your colleagues a goodbye email, confirm that the boss has already informed everyone about your plans to leave for future endeavours. Once confirmed, you can start crafting a farewell email to your colleagues.

2. The word is out that you are leaving – when should you say anything?

Inform your immediate team once your manager has been notified. Closer team members should be informed earlier to allow time for the handover and to ensure work continuity. Avoid waiting until the final day to notify them, as this can lead to disruptions in the work process. When informing others, consider the timing to leave on a positive note. For acquaintances, an email one to two days before your last day works well.

3. Get the subject matter right in your goodbye email

Writing the perfect farewell email subject line is more challenging than it seems. Include something simple and clearly indicate the contents. Here are some examples:

Moving to a new endeavour
Thanks for everything
Bidding goodbye
A new journey awaits for me
A new adventure in my professional life
The next chapter of my career
Thanks for being such a great team
I will miss working with all of you

Related: Building your personal brand

4. How to write your farewell email to colleagues

Consider a brief note for co-workers you are not close to

Regardless of your reason for leaving, it is essential to say goodbye professionally, ideally writing individually to each person on your team a unique goodbye email to co-workers.

Be sure to show gratitude

Maintain a friendly and positive tone in your farewell email. For close connections, include a personal anecdote or express appreciation for their support.

Include relevant contact details

Be sure to include your personal contact information such as your email address, mobile number and LinkedIn profile in your farewell email. Keeping in touch with your ex-colleagues can help you get career advice in your career journey. If you are moving into contract work, they could also potentially be your first clients.

Consider a brief note for co-workers you are not close to

Keep your goodbye email short for acquaintances at work. Most colleagues don't require extensive details about your departure. A quick note for everyone and a more personal goodbye for close colleagues strike the right balance.

Use the right tone with your manager

Write a thoughtful farewell to your manager, depending on your relationship. If your work experience has been positive, convey your appreciation; otherwise, a standard farewell message will do.

Send the right message to your clients

Maintain a professional exit with clients by sending a personalised message. Include details about the colleague who will collaborate with them after your departure in your goodbye email and offer contact information if needed for a smooth transition.

Always remain respectful and polite

Keep your farewell messages thoughtful and diplomatic, even when leaving on less-than-ideal terms. Share constructive feedback with your manager before resigning, if available, and avoid using your farewell to air grievances. Remaining respectful and polite creates a lasting positive impression that can benefit your future career prospects.

Carol Yeoh

career path

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What to do after being laid off: A guide to navigating this challenging time

Simone Wu — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 08:28:31 +0000

What to do after being laid off: A guide to navigating this challenging time Simone Wu

Being laid off can be a deeply unsettling experience. You would likely feel a range of emotions, from sadness, grief and anger to confusion and even relief. Many individuals face job loss at some point in their careers. With the right approach, you can overcome this challenge and emerge stronger.

Related: Building your personal brand

How to recover from layoffs and get back on your feet

1. Acknowledge and process your emotions

Job loss can trigger a rollercoaster of emotions. Acknowledge and validate your feelings, whether they be sadness, anger, or even fear. Talking to trusted friends, family, or therapists can provide a safe space to process these emotions.

-Don’t bottle up your emotions: Bottling up your feelings can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms and hinder your ability to move forward. Allow yourself to express your feelings in a healthy way, whether through journaling, talking to a trusted confidant, breaking things in a rage room, or engaging in activities you find therapeutic.

-Seek professional help if needed: If you’re struggling to cope with the emotional impact of job loss, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counsellor. They can provide guidance and support as you navigate this challenging time. It is not easy to take the first step to ask for help. If you are not mentally ready for a face-to-face talk, consider calling a counselling service helpline.

Maintain a positive outlook

Though the situation may seem overwhelming and immobilising, it’s important to remember that this phase is only temporary. Keep your sights set on the future, maintaining an optimistic outlook as you navigate forward. Recognise that being laid off, like many workers laid off during economic downturns, is a strategic business decision that could be due to various factors such as the need to cut costs or poor performance elsewhere in the company. It's not a measure of your professional capabilities or worth.

-Reframe your perspective: Instead of viewing your termination as a setback, see it as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. This shift in perspective can empower you to approach your job search with a more positive and proactive attitude.

-Focus on your strengths: Reflect on your skills, accomplishments, and experiences. Recognising your strengths can boost your confidence and self-belief as you embark on your job search journey.

2. Understand your rights and finances

Understanding your employee rights and financial standing is crucial after a layoff. With the right approach, you can lay a solid foundation for your next career move.

Review your severance package

Carefully review the terms of your severance package, including any severance pay, continuation of benefits, and outplacement services that could have a significant impact on your financial well-being. If you have questions, discuss them with your HR department or seek legal advice.

-Don’t rush into signing anything: Take your time to thoroughly understand the terms of your severance package before signing any agreements. Seek legal counsel if necessary to ensure your rights are protected.

-Negotiate your severance package: Depending on your circumstances, you may have some room for negotiation regarding your severance package. Consult an employment lawyer to understand your options and explore potential negotiation strategies.

Explore unemployment benefits

Research and understand the unemployment benefits available in your country. Knowing your eligibility and application process can provide financial security during your job search.

-Contact your local unemployment office: The unemployment office in your area can provide information about eligibility requirements, application procedures, and benefit amounts.

-Seek assistance from non-profit organisations: Some organisations offer resources and support to individuals facing job loss. These organisations can help you navigate the unemployment benefits system and connect with other valuable resources.

Create a budget

Assess your savings and expenses to create a realistic budget. Identify areas where you can cut costs and prioritise essential spending to manage your finances effectively.

-Track your expenses: If you haven’t already, start monitoring your spending habits to identify areas where you can adjust your budget. Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track your income and expenses effectively.

-Seek financial counselling: If you’re struggling to manage your finances, consider seeking professional guidance from a financial advisor or counsellor. They can help you create a personalised budget, explore debt management strategies, and navigate financial challenges during your job search.

-Find temporary work: While taking time to strategise your next career move is vital, sometimes the need for income is urgent. Finding temporary work doesn’t have to derail your long-term career goals.

While you secure immediate income through temporary, freelance or part-time work, you can continue your job search for a permanent position that aligns with your aspirations. If you’re in this situation, here are some resources to help you find temporary work and bridge the financial gap:

Explore the gig economy: Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer connect businesses with individuals offering various skills and services. From writing and editing to graphic design and programming, these platforms provide diverse opportunities for project-based work.
Look for contract or temporary jobs: Staffing agencies specialise in placing individuals in temporary or contract positions. Depending on your experience and qualifications, these roles range from administrative support to specialised technical skills.
Utilise online job boards: Major job boards, like our Michael Page job portal, often feature sections dedicated to temporary and freelance positions. Use relevant keywords and filters to find opportunities that align with your skills and availability.
Contact your network: Let your professional network know you’re available for short-term projects or freelance work. Former colleagues, clients, or acquaintances may have leads or referrals to provide immediate income opportunities.

3. Redefining your career path: Reflection and exploration

Before diving headfirst into applications, take some time to reflect on your aspirations and redefine your professional path.

Uncover your “why”

Ask yourself what excites and motivates you in a career. Do you crave the intellectual challenge of a specific field, or are you drawn to roles that offer opportunities for creativity and problem-solving? Identifying your intrinsic motivators will guide you towards fulfilling career options.

Explore new horizons

Instead of confining yourself to the boundaries of your previous role, embrace the opportunity to delve into new industries or fields that spark your curiosity.

By researching emerging trends and pinpointing areas where your existing skills and experience could seamlessly transition, you open the door to many possibilities that align more closely with your interests and aspirations.

-Identify skill gaps: Analyse the requirements of your desired jobs and identify any skill gaps you may have. Utilise online resources, job postings, and industry reports to understand the in-demand skills for your target positions.

-Explore online learning platforms: Numerous online platforms, such as Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning, offer courses and certifications to help you acquire in-demand skills. Many platforms offer free trials or introductory courses, allowing you to explore their offerings before committing.

-Focus on practical application: Don’t just focus on theoretical knowledge; actively apply your newly acquired skills through projects, volunteering, or freelance work. This practical experience will enhance your learning and make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

-Consider alternative learning methods: Volunteering or taking on freelance projects can provide valuable practical experience to complement your online learning.

Clear your mind

A well-defined objective streamlines your job search. Instead of applying to every available position, focus on opportunities that align with your newfound direction. This targeted approach saves time and increases your chances of landing a fulfilling role. Self-reflection is not a one-time event.

As you progress through your job search, revisit your goals and aspirations regularly. This ongoing evaluation ensures your actions align with your evolving vision for the future. By prioritising introspection and exploration, you can transform a challenging experience into a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

4. Prioritise your mental health and well-being

Whether you prefer to do light yoga or run regularly exercise, eat nutritious meals or check off your list of new restaurants to try, create habits that can contribute to your overall well-being and resilience during your job search. The key is to go at your own pace. Some might jump into a job search a few days after being laid off, while others need more time.

Seek support

Emotions can hit you anytime, not just at the beginning of your layoff. Talking to someone you trust can help you manage stress and navigate the challenges of losing your job.

-Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Techniques like meditation and yoga can help manage stress and anxiety during your job search. Explore various mindfulness and relaxation techniques and find what works best for you.

-Seek professional help: Sometimes, talking to a professional therapist or counsellor can be a more comfortable starting point than speaking with close families and friends. They are trained to listen and provide support without judgment. This can also alleviate the fear of burdening loved ones.

-Join support groups: Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can reduce the sense of isolation and the burden of sharing. Peer support groups offer a safe space to express feelings and share coping strategies.

-Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it’s normal to need help and ask for help. Self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same kindness, concern, and support you’d offer a good friend.

5. Leverage your network and announce your job search with confidence

While updating your resume can wait, updating your LinkedIn profile is crucial before publicly announcing your job search. While acknowledging layoffs can be challenging, the landscape of job searching has shifted significantly.

Career transitions are increasingly commonplace in today’s economy, driven by factors like business restructuring, technological advancements, workforce budget cuts and unforeseen events like the recent pandemic. This widespread understanding has led to a normalisation of openly expressing your “open to work” status on platforms like LinkedIn.

Don’t shy away from expressing your feelings about the layoff situation authentically on LinkedIn. Honesty and vulnerability can resonate with potential future employers, and connections. Some may choose to say they have been laid off while others may not want to.

Do what is comfortable for you. Here are several pointers to consider when writing your LinkedIn post:

-Focus on the future: While acknowledging the past, emphasise your excitement for new opportunities. Showcase resilience and optimism, qualities valued by potential employers.

-Express gratitude: Thank your former colleagues and express appreciation for your time at the company. This demonstrates professionalism and respect.

-Clarity is key: Clearly state your desired role, including details like industry, level, location, and desired work arrangement. This helps connections identify relevant opportunities.

-Utilise professional language: Maintain a professional tone throughout your announcement, avoiding negative remarks about your previous employer.

-Call to action: Encourage connections to share relevant opportunities or make introductions, expanding your reach.

Sample LinkedIn post template

Here is a LinkedIn post template for your convenience. Feel free to copy, paste, and modify it to suit your needs – remember to personalise it before sharing.

“I recently completed my journey at [Company Name] and am now actively seeking new opportunities to leverage my skills and experience in [mention your areas of expertise]. I’m grateful for the valuable experiences and connections I made during my time there.

I’m particularly interested in [mention your desired role and industry], ideally in a [location or remote] setting. My passion lies in [briefly describe what motivates you in your work].

If you know of any relevant opportunities or are willing to connect me with individuals in your network, I’d greatly appreciate it. Thank you for your support!”

6. Craft a winning job search strategy

After taking some time off to process what just happened and grieve as needed, you can start to work on your job search. The first step is to update your resume.

Update your resume and LinkedIn profile

Even if you intend to find a new job later, it is always recommended to keep your resume updated so it would be up-to-date if someone requests it.

Naturally, when you update your resume, do the same for your LinkedIn profile. If you decide to start your job search, be sure to tailor your resume to each application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.

-Use keywords strategically: Identify keywords commonly used in job postings for your target positions and incorporate them in your resume and LinkedIn profile. This can improve your visibility to potential employers who use applicant tracking systems.

-Quantify your accomplishments: Use metrics and data to quantify your achievements on your resume. This will demonstrate your tangible impact in previous roles and strengthen your candidacy.

-Proofread meticulously: Ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile are free of typos and grammatical errors. A professional presentation is crucial for making a positive first impression on potential employers.

Layoffs, while challenging, are opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By following these steps, taking care of yourself, and maintaining a positive outlook, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate this transition, be ready for future employment, and find a new role that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Need more assistance? Contact a Michael Page consultant here, or search for current job opportunities.

Simone Wu

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The role of a Personal Assistant

ken — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 06:43:54 +0000

The role of a Personal Assistant ken

When you hear the job title of “Personal Assistant (PA)” images of running around for a demanding celebrity or working at all hours of the day for a powerful figure often come to mind. While there are certainly personal assistant jobs like this out there, there are also many more variations of being a personal assistant. It’s an administrative support job that will look different, depending on who you are working for and what company or industry you are in.

Generally, however, the role of a personal assistant can be a fulfilling job with high growth potential, good visibility within a company and the ability to become an integral part of the operations of any organisation. In the following, we break down the job responsibilities, key skills needed and career opportunities for a personal assistant.

What does a Personal Assistant do?

The role of a PA is multifaceted, complex and varies a good amount, depending on who you are working for. With this is mind, there are several responsibilities that most Personal Assistants can expect to find as part of their job description:

Filtering emails and phone calls, acting as the first point of contact for their manager
Handling their manager’s calendar, including scheduling all appointments, meetings and events
Making travel arrangements for their manager, including transport, accommodation and other business trip details
Taking notes and following up for meetings
Other administrative duties

These administrative tasks are designed to support their manager, allowing them to focus on the bigger picture. As such, many personal assistant duties revolve around ensuring the manager’s day is organised and effective.

Additionally, personal assistants may have other job duties such as :

working on specific projects or research
looking after accounts and budgets
helping to delegate work to others in the manager’s absence
attending important meetings and being a part of the decision-making process

Top skills to be a good Personal Assistant

There are several skills that make a good Personal Assistant. Increasingly, soft skills such as communication are becoming just as important as hard skills like computer literacy. The following are some soft and hard skills that any good personal assistant will possess.

Hard skills

-Receptionist abilities: these would include answering the phone and emails in a professional way, knowing how to handle multiple people at once and understanding how to filter calls and emails. Receptionist abilities are important, as you will probably be handling all initial communications directed towards the manager.

-Computer literacy: this includes Outlook and other email applications, general Microsoft Office or Google docs, and any other essential software programs. Additionally, a strong typing speed of at least 60 words per minute would be ideal.

-Multitasking ability: this skill is essential in order to be able to handle multiple tasks that many PAs have to juggle at once with short deadlines. This would overlap with time management skills as well.

Soft skills

-Communication: this is one of the most important soft skills for a personal assistant, as so much of this role revolves around communicating effectively with your manager, other stakeholders and others in the organisation.

-Flexibility: this soft skill ensures you can handle the high demands on your manager, which will translate into high demands on you. Late nights, early mornings and last-minute changes may be a part of the job, and flexibility makes you able to support your manager at critical times.

-Trustworthiness: in the role of a personal assistant, you may find that you handle confidential documents or are privy to confidential conversations. Trustworthiness ensures that you can handle that responsibility.

How to find a job as a Personal Assistant

A PA usually needs a background in administrative support and experience as a PA in previous companies is always an advantage. If you are an entry-level professional, highlight education and other experience such as internships or volunteer work that may include transferable skills. The higher up the manager you will be supporting is, the more complex the role will be. Because of this, companies will be looking for someone with extensive PA experience if the role is supporting a high level executive.

Use your network to seek out Personal Assistant job openings. If you are interested in a particular industry, search for PA jobs in that industry and then use it as a stepping stone to make contacts, gain experience and improve your industry knowledge.

Being a Personal Assistant is a rewarding job with lots of growth potential. Those who start out as a Personal Assistant can move on to become Executive Personal Assistant, Executive Assistant, Office Manager, or many other variations of roles within Administrative Support and beyond.

See all our administrative support jobs in Hong Kong here.

Michael Page

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7大未被錄取的原因

ken — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 04:21:24 +0000

7大未被錄取的原因 ken

求職過程涉及諸多因素，每一次應聘、面試、成功或失敗經驗都獨一無二，且幾乎不可能預測結果。即使面試表現出色或履歷內容亮眼，也可能敗給其他競爭者。但如果沒收到回音，我們就永遠都不知道被拒絕的理由。若您最近求職未被錄取，也無任何回音，以下是幾項常見的可能性：

1. 履歷欠缺賣點

在市場競爭之中，簡歷必須引人注目。即使其中不乏優秀經歷，倘若未吸引讀者目光，很容易被過目即遺忘。優秀簡歷需以簡明方式呈現，充分結合相關技能與經驗，避免詞不達義，並且每次求職都必須調整簡歷內容，以符合各個職位需求。

2. 動機不夠明確

別忘了，雇主可能收到大量求職信，因此會採用嚴格的篩選標準。有時雇主可能不明白求職者的動機，例如簡歷裡可能提到自己的學歷或許稍高於職位需求，但很希望為貴公司工作，以增加業界經驗，詳盡的求職信在此便可發揮作用。別因為未解釋求職動機而錯失工作機會。

3. 未展現個人知識

面試準備不足，有時會導致求職者未完全展現個人知識與經驗。請切記要充分研究企業資訊，才能說明個人技能適合該公司；事前準備幾項明確案例，以便在面試時說明自己曾在哪些特定情況取得正面的效果。

4. 不適合該公司團隊

適合與否關係到該公司的價值觀與前景，與難以衡量的性格及軟技能大有關係，有時個人並無任何失誤，只是與面試者觀念不一致，或是工作模式不同。不過若能表現優異的溝通技巧，並兼具自信與善意，就能幫助您站穩腳步。

5. 看似意興闌珊

若與雇主或招聘人員談話時顯得緊張，可能無法表達對該職位或公司的熱忱，對職位的熱誠及期盼很重要。若有兩位求職者爭取相同職位，雇主可能依據兩人的態度及決心高低而作出選擇。

6. 他人資歷更豐富

您的履歷很完善，面試表現也很優秀，但競爭太過激烈，因此擁有相關行業及職能經驗將決定最終人選。尤其在經濟動盪或不明朗時期，雇主通常傾向風險規避，比較保守，但別因此失去自信。

7. 經歷與特定要求不符合

如未接到面試通知，可能是簡歷未達到職位特定要求。雇主在求職廣告中會清楚列舉基本要求，您在求職之前，也得確定自己已符合各項基礎標準（如特定學歷與經驗門檻等）。

你希望了解關於處理負面反饋或打破職業障礙的更多信息嗎？訪問我們的新聞與研究中心了解詳情或查看求職中心。

尋找一份新的工作？瀏覽我們網站上的職位部分或在此處將您的簡歷發送給我們。

Michael Page

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如何撰寫一份大方得體的farewell email？內附中英文範例！

emilie.c — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 03:10:13 +0000

如何撰寫一份大方得體的farewell email？內附中英文範例！ emilie.c

離職的時候，除了要處理各項交接事務，撰寫離職感謝信給公司的團隊同事，也是一項挑戰。寫好farewell信非常重要，因為它能助您在公司團隊和其他同事心目中，留下正面印象。而且，farewell letter亦是一個表達自己對同事和主管讚賞和感激的機會，祝願他們未來工作順利之餘，亦助維持良好關係。

發Farewell email時需要考慮的要素

現代的farewell letter多數以email 形式發出，但到底什麼時候，才是發送farewell email的最佳時機？應如何撰寫才可以令人留下好印象？開始寫farewell letter之前，不妨留意以下幾個重要的事項。

1. 事前先向僱主確認已通知其他同事

向同事送出您的電郵之前，最好事先向僱主確認，他是否已通知相關同事您離職的計劃。在僱主仍未向外宣佈您將即將離職的消息之前，最好不要發送farewell email。直至您確認同事已經知悉，才發電郵，做法會更恰當。否則，可能會令部份同事感到不明所以，惹來不必要猜測。

2. 應該在什麼時候與團隊談及離職一事？

一旦獲得僱主或上司確認離職的日期，您就可以通知您的團隊了。一般來說，公司需要安排交接，讓新同事接替您的職務，所以盡量不要在最後一天才通知團隊成員。

此外，有些同事可能會因為您遲遲不告知他們，而認為您不夠信任他們，結果產生負面情緒。相反，向太多人宣布離職的消息，又可能會打擊士氣，若本身公司流失率高，更可能會惹來僱主不滿。所以向同事公布您即將離職前，最好仔細考慮以上幾點。

對於不熟絡但曾經共事的同事，您可以選擇在離職前一、兩天才發送farewell email通知。當然，這份email也可以同時發送給較親近的團隊成員，圓滿結束您們共事的關係，好頭好尾。

3. 訂立明確的email標題

訂立明確的farewell email標題，有時比想像中困難。記得您的email標題要夠清晰，最重要是能讓人一眼理解您想表達的內容。以下是幾個常見例子：

• 邁向新事業

• 感謝各位的指點和幫忙

• 再會！

• 展開全新的旅程

• 職業生涯全新的冒險

• 職業生涯的新篇章

• 感謝各位優秀的團隊成員

• 我會懷念一起工作的時光

延伸閱讀: 工作面試時的7個超級問題

如何撰寫您的farewell letter

無論您離職的原因是什麼，都需要以一個得體的方式向公司團隊道別。有人會為每個團隊成員各自撰寫一封獨特的離職感謝信，對較親近的幾位同事甚至會親筆書寫。

不過，離職前可能需要處理大量的交接工作，所以即使您無法為每一位同事單獨撰寫一封farewell信，亦無傷大雅。以下是數個可以考慮加入離職感謝信作道別的內容建議：

1. 表達感激之情

無論如何，farewell email用語都應該要保持正面和友善。在親近的同事email中，可以分享彼此共同度過的快樂回憶，以及自己對他們的良好印象。此外，盡量用以日常用語撰寫，令語氣更親切自然。

2. 留下聯絡資料

在farewell email中，最好包括自己的聯絡資料，包括個人email、手機號碼、 LinkedIn 等。因為與前同事保持聯繫，可能有助您往後的職業生涯發展。例如當您成為自由工作者後，這些人脈有機會成為您的第一批顧客。

延伸閱讀: 建立自己的個人品牌

3. 給不熟絡的同事送上簡短的farewell祝福

其實，公司大部分人可能未必曾與您共事，只是想簡單了解您未來的職業動向、下一份工作的資訊等。如果您向整間公司的同事發送長篇的farewell email，可能會惹人反感。

無論您平時給予人的印象如何，也要盡量讓收到farewell email的同事對您留下良好印象。對於公司內不熟絡的同事，精簡的farewell祝福信已經足夠。較為真摯的祝福，可以留給關係親近的同事。

4. 對上司使用禮貌的語氣

與直屬上司的關係始終有別於其他同事，因此您可以考慮向他發送一封獨立的farewell email。

如果您與上司的關係良好，可以在離職email內表達深感有幸可與他們共事，感激一直以來的提攜，同時透露自己沉重的離別之情。可是，假如您與上司的關係並不親近，您只需要把email連同公司所有同事一併傳送便可，不必另寫一個版本。

5. 客戶傳達體面的離職通知

如果您的工作需要接待客戶，離職前後都必須要跟他們保持良好的關係。您私下通知客戶自己即將離職，多謝他們的支持，並表達對過往合作感到愉快，同時祝福他們業務一帆風順。

此外，為了令工作交接順利，別忘記向客戶交代接替同事的資料和背景。如有需要，可以將該同事的聯絡資料附加到farewell email中。如果可以的話，您留下個人聯繫方式。

6. 保持冷靜和禮貌

所謂山水有相逢，即使您不喜歡現有的工作和同事，farewell letter的行文也必須要保持專業。如果您對公司有任何意見或批評，可以在辭職前告知上司，而無需等到離職面談才提及。

您辭職的原因或許與公司的人事有關，但farewell letter和辭職信並不是您表達不滿、抱怨工作或同事態度的平台。貿言在信中留下惡言可能會令您自毀前程，影響未來幾年的職業生涯。所以，請時刻保持冷靜及專業，以免影響仕途。

您跟現職公司說再見的方式，很大程度上反映您的個性、對業務的貢獻以及未來的前景。離職的程序與很多事情一樣，隨時一失足千古恨。希望以上的技巧，能幫助您以最理想的方式，優雅地和同事上司說再見。

離職感謝信範例

如果您決定以email的方式發送離職感謝信，以下三個版本的範例可以幫助您建構文章的脈絡。您可以隨意添加任何您覺得重要的資訊，符合自己的需要和情況。

延伸閱讀: 向未來僱主推銷自己的6個方法

版本一：

標題：再會！感謝各位與我一起創造回憶！

親愛的同事們，

與大家在［公司名稱］共事了［任職時間］後，我懷着不捨的心情，向大家道別。也許有些人已經知道這個消息——我決定在往後的日子，尋求新的工作機會和挑戰。

在此，我想衷心感謝每一個人。感謝您們讓我在［公司名稱］留下難忘的時光。我從每個人身上，學到了很多，我將會永遠珍惜這段共同創造的回憶。我深信我曾以自己的方式，為公司作出了貢獻。我將會帶着自豪和滿足的心情，開展人生的新一頁。

祝福大家未來一帆風順，也歡迎大家在［社交媒體平台］或［個人email］上與我保持聯繫。

再次感謝大家！

祝

工作順利

［寄件人姓名］

版本二：

標題：再見，感謝各位！

親愛的各位，

相信有些人已經知道，我已經辭去了在［公司名稱］的職位，追求其他工作機會。我的最後工作天將為［最後工作天］。

我想在此感謝大家，讓我可以在這段時間獲得寶貴的經驗。能夠與如此優秀和敬業的團隊一起工作，是我的榮幸。我從每一個人身上學到了很多，衷心感激您們在我任職期間，所給予的支持和鼓勵。

雖然我感到非常不捨，但我也對未來感到興奮。我相信，在［公司名稱］所學到的寶貴知識和技能，可應用於將來的工作之中。

祝福您們往後的事業順利成功，生活幸福美滿。歡迎大家在［社交媒體平台］或［個人email］上與我保持聯繫。

再次感謝您們！

祝

工作順利

［寄件人姓名］

版本三：

主題：再見！開啟新的篇章

親愛的同事們，

相信您們已經知道，我已經辭去了在［公司名稱］的職位，我的最後工作將為［最後工作天］。

我想藉此機會，向每一個人表達我的感激之情。感謝您們在這段時間給予我的支持、指導和鼓勵。我真的很享受與如此優秀和活力的團隊一起工作，我將會永遠珍惜我們一起創造的回憶。

雖然我感到非常不捨，但我對未來的機會感到興奮。我相信，在這裡獲得的技能和經驗，將會對我未來的工作有所助益。我非常感恩自己能在這段時間與各位共事，獲得如此寶貴的知識，並與大家建立了深厚情誼，將來必定會想念這段在［公司名稱］的快樂時光！

再次感謝您們。歡迎大家在［社交媒體平台］或［個人email］上與我保持聯繫。

祝

工作順利

［寄件人姓名］

延伸閱讀：如何撰寫一份大方得體的farewell email？內附範例！

Michael Page

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辭職信範本【2024 最新】

emilie.c — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 08:05:10 +0000

辭職信範本【2024 最新】 emilie.c

如果您已決定辭職，或已被新公司錄取，您就需要撰寫一封辭職信，同時考慮如何通知現任僱主離職的消息，做到好聚好散。

為何一封辭職信如此重要？

一封大方得體的辭職信，既能作為離職的正式通知，也可以為自己留下一個專業的形象。

這不只是一項例行公事，也是職業生涯中的重要一環。如何得體地辭職，對您未來的職業路向非常重要，所以在辭去現在的職位時，辭職信的用詞最好保持正面積極。

生成式AI如何協助您撰寫一份更好的辭職信？

踏入2024年，生成式人工智能（Generative AI）工具日漸普及，工作場所的溝通模式亦出現轉變，連撰寫辭職信亦變得更方便。

雖然，大多數人還會繼續採用傳統辭職信範本，但不少人也開始利用AI寫辭職信。AI的最大優點，就是可以按照辭職信範本，再針對個人情況和需求，製作獨一無二的內容。因此，AI成為近年熱門的辭職信生成工具，為離職者撰寫一份有禮得體又具個人特色的辭職信。

度身訂造的辭職信

正如前文所述，AI生成的辭職信最大賣點是個人化。使用時，只需要輸入相關的工作、離職的原因以及文章所需的行文語調，便可以獲得一封齊集所有資料的辭職信，直接反映您的真實工作經驗及離職意向，同時助您維持一個專業的形象，可靠真實之餘，又不落俗套。

基於真實情況生成相應的範本

如想辭職信更有您的個人特色，您便要於AI生成工具輸入更詳盡的工作現況，盡可能向它提供更多具體細節，讓它生成一封與您所思所想吻合的辭職信。

助調整文章語調避免感情用事

在撰寫辭職信時，內容行文有時難免加入主觀的個人情感，導致辭職信的語調有失專業。而使用AI正可避免這個問題，因為它會分析您的草稿內容，在不改動訊息主旨的同時，確保用字專業有禮。

檢查語法強化語文水平

AI生成工具備基本語法檢查功能，也有助改善辭職信的語法、清晰度和整體閱讀的流暢度。除此以外，它更可以提升您的寫作水平，確保辭職信準確無誤，用字精煉。

5個中文辭職信範本

一般情況下，行文正式的辭職信已經足以令您顯得專業。然而，一封根據自身狀況撰寫的辭職信，更可助您離職過程更順利，同時於舊僱主心目中留下良好印象。

緊記辭職信屬於正式通知，您需要確保信上附有當日的日期和公司地址，並遵循辭職信的標準格式撰寫。由於辭職信屬於一份正式公文，語調必須保持專業有禮。
即使因個人不滿而離職，也要保持風度，不應在辭職信中提及這些原因。反而，您可以在離職面談中，進一步討論相關議題。

以下是5個簡短的中文辭職信範本，助您減輕撰寫壓力。在使用這些範本時，您也可以根據實際情況進行編輯和改動。

範本 1－任何一般情況

［公司名稱+僱主／上司職銜］

［僱主／上司名稱] 台啟：

本人因私人理由，決定辭去［公司名稱］［職位］一職，最後工作日將會根據本人的通知期，於[最後一天的日期]正式生效。

感謝公司給予本人［在職時間］擔任此職位的機會。在這段時間裏，本人獲取很多寶貴的知識和經驗，都可應用到日後的工作之上，在這段寶貴時光亦非常享受與同事們的合作。

本人在餘下的［通知期內的週數］，將會協助所有交接工作，並盡力支援交接的同事。如有任何需要，請不吝告知，以確保工作順利完成。

祝

工作順利

［寄件人全名］謹啟

［日期］

範本 2－改變職涯規劃

［公司名稱+僱主／上司職銜］

［僱主／上司名稱］台啟：

本人因職涯規劃有變，決定辭去［公司名稱］［職位］一職，最後工作日將會根據本人的通知期，於[最後一天的日期］正式生效。

經過仔細的考量後，本人決定卸下［公司名稱］[職位］的角色，朝著更符合職業志向的方向邁進。

感謝［公司名稱］在任期中給予的機會和經驗。本人會珍惜所學的寶貴知識和技能，並應用於未來的職業之中。

在［結束日期］之前的數周，本人將會全力以赴，確保工作順利交接。

祝

工作順利

［寄件人全名］謹啟

［日期］

範本 3－因新工作而需要縮短工時

［公司名稱+僱主／上司職銜］

［僱主／上司名稱］台啟：

本人決定辭去［公司名稱］[職位］一職，最後工作日將會根據本人的通知期，於[最後一天的日期]正式生效。

本人因新的工作機會，未來工時將會縮短一半，讓本人可有更多工餘時間陪伴家人。

本人非常享受在［公司名稱］度過的［服務的年份和月份］，並由衷感激公司曾給予的指導和機會。

在［結束日期］之前的日子，本人將會全力以赴，協助工作順利交接。

祝

工作順利

［寄件人全名］謹啟

［日期］

範本 4－提前通知離職

［公司名稱+僱主／上司職銜］

［僱主／上司名稱］台啟：

本人決定於［日期］辭去［公司名稱］的職務。本人理解交接工作需時，因此希望盡早告知，以確保交接工作順利完成。

在［公司名稱］的這段時間，本人獲益良多。感謝公司在本人任職期間，給予的所有指導和支持。

如有需要查詢任何與工作相關的問題，請與本人聯絡。本人非常樂意解答，並會承諾以任何方式，協助交接工作順利完成。

祝

工作順利

［寄件人全名］謹啟

［日期］

範本 5－認為工作不適合自己

［公司名稱+僱主／上司職銜］

［僱主／上司名稱］台啟：

本人決定辭去［公司名稱］［職位］一職，最後工作日將會根據本人的通知期，於[最後一天的日期］正式生效。

本人在［公司名稱］工作的時間裏，意識到這個職位的範疇及內容，與本人的預期不相符，因此希望另覓其他更適合自己的工作機會。

感謝您的諒解，以及這段時間提供的所有指導和支持。本人將會盡力完成所有交接工作，如有任何需要，請與本人聯絡，確保工作能順利完成。

祝

工作順利

［寄件人全名］謹啟

［日期］

英文辭職信範本：Resignation letter templates [2024 Update]

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How and why to ask for a reference letter

emilie.c — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 07:15:02 +0000

How and why to ask for a reference letter emilie.c

A reference letter is usually written by someone from your professional network who knows you well enough to write about your abilities and qualities. They might include a former employer, teacher, or colleague. If it's a recommendation letter, it's usually written by someone who worked closely with you. For example, if you had a manager, they might recommend you.

Sometimes, a reference letter can be referred to as a recommendation letter. This is because it's often given to people applying for jobs. In some cases, the letter is called a reference letter. Reference letters are used in various circumstances, depending on what you want to achieve.

If you're hoping to secure a new job, it's important to know how to ask for a reference letter. The letter should come from someone who knows you well enough to speak to your character and abilities, as it can help provide a strong basis to potential employers for why they should hire you.

Know who to request for reference letter

If you're applying for a job, a reference request can help convince the hiring manager that you're suitable for the role. You may ask someone who works at the organisation where you'd like to work, or perhaps a friend or family member who knows you well and understands how to write a good reference for you. You can use the same wording as you do in the cover letter. Make sure to add a few extra lines explaining why you think you're ideal for the position.

The exact structure of a potential reference letter will vary based on its type, but as a general outline, it should start using the business letter format: put the recipient’s name and address, if you know it, and address them as "Dear" If the recipient is currently unknown, then use "Dear Sir/Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern". Take plenty of time to make sure the letter itself is how you want it to be.

Previous employers are a good source for positive letters

It is often helpful to introduce oneself in the first few lines of the reference letter. The recipient won't need their entire life story - just give a short sentence or two describing their job position and their relationship with the candidate. The next paragraph should confirm any information supplied by the candidate. This information could pertain to dates of employment, positions held, departments worked in, etc. Generally, a good reference letter should look like the below example:

Date

Dear [Title and Name of Recipient] or To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this reference letter to recommend [Candidate's Name] for [Purpose of the Recommendation]. [Candidate's Name] worked at [Company Name] as a [Job Role] for [Number of Years in Role], and throughout their tenure, they consistently displayed a remarkable level of excellence and became an invaluable member of our team.

As [Job Role], [Candidate's Name] was responsible for a wide range of duties, including [Short List of Job Duties]. They exhibited exceptional [List of Competencies and Skills], allowing them to complete tasks efficiently and maintain a high standard of work.

Moreover, [Candidate's Name] consistently demonstrated a proactive attitude by [Provide a Brief Example of Internal Achievements, such as mentoring trainees or receiving accolades].

I highly recommend [Candidate's Name] for [Purpose of the Recommendation]. If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Phone Number/Email].

Sincerely,

[Referee’s Name and Title]

There are three main types of people you might want to ask for a reference: colleagues, friends, and family members. Depending on your situation, each type of contact could prove useful. For example, if you're applying for a job where your previous supervisor will likely be asked for a reference letter, it makes sense to request him/her for one. Asking for a reference from a colleague is usually straightforward. You simply email the person and ask to speak with her/him about your application. This is a great way to build rapport with potential future supervisors and gain insight into how they operate. Plus, it doesn't hurt to show initiative by contacting the best people for job references.

An effective letter requires an effective sender

Friends and relatives are generally easier to reach than colleagues; just make sure that you don't ask for a reference letter from someone who isn't close enough to you to give a good opinion. Also, keep in mind that some employers won't even consider giving references to former employees. In fact, most companies require current or recent coworkers to provide references.

Finally, there's always the option of asking for a character reference. These are typically given by friends and family members who know you well and can vouch for your reputation. However, you shouldn't rely too heavily on this type of reference because it tends to be less reliable than others. A strong letter needs credibility, of course.

Poor references could show that you're not a team player

A bad reference can be the biggest roadblock to landing a dream job. Having a bad reference can mean missing out on a great opportunity. But there's one thing worse than giving a bad reference: Not asking for one at all. The best character reference letters will indicate that you have the academic skills, the leadership skills and the technical skills to be a genuine success in your new role, as you have been in your current role.

If you want to land a job, make sure to ask people for a personal reference. Remember, however, that it's important to always give the person an easy option to decline. If you give them no choice, you'll likely come off as rude, and they might even think twice about recommending you. Usually, you should give yourself at least two weeks in which to request and obtain a letter of reference. Getting your job application and letters of recommendation in on time is surely and absolutely vital.

Your prospective employer will want to know more about you

A good recommendation letter can be one of the most important aspects of the hiring process. You want to make sure that whoever writes your letter knows exactly what you did, why you did it, how well you performed, and what you learned along the way. Many senders start by drawing up a draft letter to see if it reads well. And if the writer is in need of some inspiration, they will find a great many reference letter templates on the internet.

The more positive information you can give to a potential employer, the better your chances of success. Therefore, the composition of the letter of reference can be crucial. If you've asked someone already to provide a recommendation, politely ask them to include content from which the hiring manager could be persuaded that you're the right person for the job. Be honest, of course, but also try to remember this is an abstract component of the overall interview and application process.

Be grateful to anyone sending a professional reference letter

Thanking people for helping you out can go a long way towards building trust and making sure they know how much you appreciate what they did. If you don't do it now, you might find yourself needing to ask them for something down the road, and you want to make sure they're still willing to help you. If you don't follow up, you could also lose their goodwill. And if you forget to say thank you, you risk losing their assistance entirely. So whether you send a handwritten note, call them, or simply reach out via social media, make sure to let them know just how grateful you are for their help.

Specifics are important in a reference letter, especially if you're applying for a job in the same industry sector. Ask for certain helpful details to be included if you can, such as a time when you headed up a successful project or suggested a particularly impactful solution. Finally, and perhaps most important of all, is that you should always be honest. If you deceive the person writing the letter of recommendation, they will then be deceiving your new employer. Don't damage your reputation, or that of others, by not being completely truthful. A good letter of recommendation can say so much and have a major influence on the job search process.

Explore new career prospects with Michael Page

Looking to make a career transition or searching for new jobs with the support of a strong reference letter? Let Michael Page guide you towards exciting opportunities. Whether your interests lie in a specific industry or sector, we have a wide range of options available. Our job search tool enables you to easily find the perfect job, and you can set up job alerts to stay informed about new openings. That's not all - we also provide a salary comparison tool and salary guide to empower you in planning your next move with access to salary data across industries and roles.

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How to gracefully resign from your job

Anonymous — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:46:45 +0000

How to gracefully resign from your job Anonymous (not verified)

Resigning from your job on good terms takes preparation, tact and professionalism. Using the correct etiquette when you resign can strengthen your reputation as a trustworthy and considerate professional, helping to position you strongly for your next move.

Prepare yourself

Before announcing your intention to resign, make sure your decision is firm and final. Be sure that a new move is right for you at this point in your career and that it really is the best decision to leave.

Related: Making a career change

Make sure you are absolutely sure of why it is that you’ve decided to resign. Being clear on your reasons for quitting will help you to leave confidently and help you to avoid being drawn into a counter-offer – if you really don’t want to stay.

Once you have decided to leave, check your notice period and rehearse your explanation beforehand. This will help you present it more comfortably and anticipate potential questions.

If you have found a new job, be sure to sign the work contract for the new job offer before you announce your resignation to your direct supervisor or HR department.

Legal obligations or contract clauses to be aware of before resigning from your job

Before you quit a job, reviewing your employment contract for specific legal obligations or clauses that may affect your departure is essential. Here are some important elements to consider:

Notice period

Determine how much notice you’re required to give before you resign from your job. Refer to your employment contract to determine how much notice you must provide, for example, two weeks’ notice. Failure to comply may result in penalties.
Non-compete clauses

Some contracts include a non-compete clause restricting you from working for competitors for a certain period after leaving.
Intellectual property

Make sure you understand what constitutes company intellectual property and what you can or cannot take with you.
Confidentiality agreements

Know the scope of confidentiality agreements, as these often extend beyond your employment period.
Severance packages

Check if you are entitled to severance pay or employee benefits upon leaving.
Return of company property

Ensure you know your responsibilities for returning company equipment or materials.
Employee handbook

Sometimes, additional policies regarding resignation may be mentioned in an employee handbook rather than the contract.
Restrictions on future employment

Some clauses may limit your employment options in the same industry.
Penalties for breach

Understand the consequences of breaching any part of your contract, including financial penalties or legal action.
Dispute resolution

Familiarise yourself with the prescribed mechanisms for resolving any disputes related to your resignation.

Meet with your manager face-to-face

Once you have fulfilled your legal obligations, the next step is to resign. It is most ideal to resign in person. Choose a convenient time to meet with your manager before notifying your colleagues. (Naturally, if you work remotely, you would have to send an email message to your supervisor.)

During the meeting, briefly explain your reasons in a courteous and professional manner, and express your willingness to finish current projects in your remaining time. Make a follow-up appointment to hand over your resignation letter and discuss transition plans. Give adequate notice.

Stay positive and be as cooperative as possible. The decision may come as a surprise to your manager, who may feel hurt by the decision. Your manager may want to go into details about your resignation but try to avoid getting into lengthy discussions.

Instead, talk about how the company has benefited you. There isn’t a great deal to be gained by being negative or pointing out all the reasons you’re unhappy about if you’ve resolved to leave. Be calm and prepared for what may be an awkward conversation.

Also, be prepared to leave immediately, as your employer may decide not to make you work through your resignation period. Back up any documents or projects that belong to you, as your employer may cut off access following the meeting.

Are you in a toxic work environment?

If you are in a toxic work environment and may be bullied into staying, then meeting your supervisor face-to-face may not be ideal. You should consider sending an email message to your manager and adding your HR department to the carbon copy (CC).

Having HR in the loop provides an official record of your resignation letter. It also ensures that there is a third-party witness to the communication, which may motivate your manager to respond appropriately. In extreme cases, having a documented trail can be beneficial if legal actions become necessary.

Handing in your resignation letter

Submit a short, polite, professional resignation letter confirming your intention to leave after your meeting. As it’s a formal letter, refer to the date and time of your discussion with your manager, the role you are resigning from, and the date of your last day.

You may want to add a sentence re-stating your reasons. If relevant, highlight what you learned in the role and how much you enjoyed working there. Retaining good relations with your manager is important, as employers will often conduct background checks, including references.

End your resignation letter on a positive note – either a thank you for the opportunities you enjoyed or best wishes for the company’s future.

Tie up loose ends

The impression you leave behind when you resign can strongly influence the kind of reference you receive in the future. Try to resolve as much outstanding work as possible in your notice period, and ensure that your employer knows you’ve been as cooperative as possible.

Be willing to train a successor, delegate important tasks to relevant colleagues, or write a detailed handover document for a smooth transition. Let your contacts and clients know you are leaving and advise them who to contact after your resignation. Demonstrate your commitment to the company in your current job until your departure.

Leave a positive last impression

It is important not to burn bridges when you resign and risk undoing your good work. Let your team know you’re leaving; however, make the resignation formal before talking to them.

You can keep supervisors and colleagues in your network of professional contacts or require a reference from your employer later on. Don’t boast about your new position, as this can cause resentment with colleagues or your employer.

You may also end up working for or with the same people sometime in the future. Ensure your reputation and relationship with the employer remains positive by leaving with grace and professionalism.

Don’t speak negatively about your employer to your colleagues, the hiring manager, or other people within the industry in your exit interview or on social media. This information can quickly be passed on, damaging relations with your previous and future employer.

Although sometimes we’d prefer to leave our current position as soon as we’ve delivered the formal resignation letter and start our next job immediately, notice periods are an opportunity to exemplify a professional approach.

It’s in our best interest to give our current employer the professional courtesy of remaining a dedicated employee until our notice period ends while preserving professional relationships for future opportunities.

Need more assistance? Contact a Michael Page consultant here, or search for current job opportunities.

Michael Page

resigning

Summary

Summary:

Once you have made the firm decision to move on from your current employment, use tact and professionalism to leave on a strong note. Remember the following:

• If possible, always resign in person and talk to your manager

• Remain courteous and explain your reasons succinctly, giving as much notice as possible to finish or hand over your projects

Your former manager and colleagues could be future referees and still form part of your network, so leave with a positive last impression

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How to quit a job

Naren Sankar — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 04:54:20 +0000

How to quit a job Naren Sankar

Quitting your job can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. There is, however, a right and a wrong way to quit your job with your current employer.

After all, you could cross paths with your current employer again at some point in the future. Making sure you are remembered in a positive light is crucial. Here are the steps to ensure you leave your job on a positive note.

1. Is this the right time?

There is never quite a suitable time to resign, and it depends on your current situation. Are you waiting for your end-of-year bonus? Or perhaps you want to utilise the paternal or maternal leave at a company before leaving?

Taking time to think about whether you should stay or go can prevent you from making a rash decision and potentially ruining what a positive relationship was. If you feel overworked or underappreciated, talk to those in charge about how to improve your situation.

If you are actively searching for a new job, talking to career experts or seeking career advice may give you more time to plan for your leaving. Resignation letters should be polite and professional.

Do not get too emotional or angry in your letter because you may need to work together with your direct supervisor in the future. Maintaining professional relationships with your former boss and former colleagues may leave a good impression on them.

2. Give the right amount of notice period

The length of the notice period you need to give will vary from role to role and from company to company. For some, it is a two weeks notice period, while it is a month for others. Generally speaking, it will be seen as unprofessional if you do not offer your employer the minimum amount of notice.

Your employer is likely to be impressed if you leave your current job in a proper fashion. Consult your employment contract to see how much notice needs to be given. Ask the Human Resources department for clarification. You also need to make sure that you use all your outstanding vacation days because your vacation days may not be able to be turned into cash.

3. Offer feedback for your decision to leave

Even if your HR team does not schedule an exit interview, reaching out to a team member is a good idea to discuss any feedback or concerns you have in your current role.

If your choice to quit stems from concerns about specific co-workers, HR can help to improve working conditions.

Remember, this is not the time to be trash-talking about the company but to be fair, measured, and constructive. Your actions could greatly help the company over the coming years and not burn bridges in the process.

4. Create a good letter of resignation

A good, formal resignation letter is relatively brief and to the point. Still, if you follow standard practice, it should also be polite and informative. Your letter of resignation should include your final day of employment and a general comment on your reason(s) for leaving.

If you have enjoyed your current position, be sure to say so and thank your manager for their guidance and support. A good resignation letter will help maintain a good relationship with your current organisation.

5. Consider offering a little help to your replacement

You should be prepared to give some help to your replacement. This includes helping to train your replacement, documenting your work, showing your replacement where essential files are stored, and providing other helpful information.

Create a calendar showing what you need to do each week. It should include your to-do list, project plans, and any other information you need to remember about tasks or appointments.

Your calendar should also show when upcoming events are happening, such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and important dates.

6. Make sure you truly want to resign

Some warning signs will show you it is time to leave your job. These may include mental health issues, a need for a career change, or failing to stay positive about your current company.

You should make sure you are leaving your job for the right reasons, instead of quitting because you are having an awful day. This should create a smooth transition for you and make the transition easier.

7. Have a job offer in the pipeline, unless...

If you do not have a job offer, try to stay at your current job until you can get something better. You might not be eligible for unemployment benefits, and the job market is highly competitive.

Only leave your job immediately if there is a good reason. Finding your next job can take three to six months of job hunting for most roles.

Unless you have a lot of savings to tie you over or are experiencing abuse at your job, it is best to have a new job ready and waiting to be taken before the notice period gets underway rather than an unnecessary gap in employment.

8. Ask for a reference

If you have a limited amount of work experience, ask your boss in person to provide a reference letter. This way, if you need one, you can use this as proof of your experience.

Whether that reference is an actual formal letter or an online recommendation on LinkedIn, it can contribute to you finding an excellent job in the future. If you already have a job lined up, get a reference anyway because you may need one in the coming years.

If you have been working in the industry for over 10 years, list down two to three people in your CV as references, so anyone looking at your CV can reach out to them to find out more about you if needed.

9. What to do in the lead-up to leaving

You should help your new colleagues settle into their roles and tasks during your notice period. Finish any critical tasks or a big project before leaving if you have the time.

This is an excellent time to focus on tying up loose ends, returning company property, and getting everything else ready for your successor. Going out to lunch or coffee with your co-workers may be a good idea.

Use your time constructively and be responsible; you should not go for long lunches or have long non-work-related conversations at the pantry if you still have a lot of work to clear.

Giving personal notes or sending personal emails to managers, mentors, and close colleagues will help you to leave on good terms and create a better impression of yourself. Remember to also get your last paycheck and settle any outstanding payments before your last day.

Need more assistance? Contact a Michael Page consultant here, or search for current job opportunities.

Michael Page

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How to know when it's time to resign - and how to leave well

Simone Wu — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 17:00:00 +0000

How to know when it's time to resign - and how to leave well Simone Wu

Have you ever seen a high-profile resignation in the news or on social media? Maybe it was a hedge fund manager who released a lengthy letter calling out their company’s leadership, or a manager who made a viral video announcing their departure. While these grand gestures can be attention-grabbing, they may not always be the best approach for your own career.

It's important to be mindful of when it might be time to move on from a role, whether it's due to a difficult team dynamic, a negative company culture, or other challenges. By paying attention to the signs and making a professional exit, you can avoid letting the situation deteriorate and potentially damaging your reputation.

Because when it comes down to it, while everyone loves the idea of a dramatic exit, the reality is that your career is worth more than that.

When to stay longer in a job

When thoughts of resigning come to you, take a quick internal look inside and see if there’s anything you can do to improve the situation.

Especially in the workplace, it can become a habit to look at things through a negative lens. Often, a change in perspective or an honest discussion can dissolve much of that tension.

When you have low-level disagreements or miscommunications with your manager, first see whether there’s a way to preserve the relationship.

It may simply be a case of understanding a different management style, and then working out how to manage it. Staying longer to work things out could help you strengthen your relationship with this person for the future.

However, once you’ve done all you can on your side, look for signs that resigning may be the only solution.

How to know that it’s time resign from your role

Look out for these factors to tell you if it’s time to hand in your resignation:

You don't feel engaged.

If you’re showing up to work every day feeling disengaged, this is a big sign that it’s time to leave. Even in leadership positions that look great on paper, a manager can become disengaged for a variety of reasons.

If you’ve noticed a lack of passion and proactivity in your role and can’t seem to find a way to get it back, a change may be what you need.

The office has a hostile environment or culture.

Whether it’s a toxic manager, a dysfunctional team or impossible targets, it can be hard to recover once a working environment has turned negative.

Don’t feel obliged to stay in an overly negative culture or office environment. This becomes even more important if the stress and negativity affect your life outside of work.

There are no growth opportunities.

It’s normal to want to upskill, gain new responsibilities and grow within your career. If you feel you’ve reached the end of where you can within the company, you may need to look outside for your next big role. While company loyalty is a great value, keep an eye out for your career.

Another amazing opportunity comes your way.

Especially once you’ve reached a level in your career where you’ve become a specialist, companies will start to seek you out.

Evaluate offers that come your way fairly, and decide what constitutes an opportunity that you can’t turn down. Maybe it’s at a dream company, better working conditions for your lifestyle, or an exciting chance to lead a new team.

How to resign on a good note

Once you decide to leave, it’s important to leave on a good note and communicate clearly. Speak with your manager and also prepare a resignation letter. Where possible, preserve your professional relationships.

Before actually resigning, take one more look at your decision. If you’re leaving because of feeling undervalued, decide what, if anything, would make you stay in the role, versus your external options. What will you do if you get a counteroffer to stay with the current company?

Ensuring that you have clearly defined reasons for handing in your resignation will also make the actual resignation easier. Above all, keep professionalism in mind, and make it a goal to resign gracefully.

Find a positive

In delivering the message, think about the positives the job has brought you. Maybe focus on the good professional relationships you have, the new skills learned, or the stepping stone it’s delivered to your next role.

Even in the most challenging environment, focusing on the good things when you’re on your way out helps make you appear more professional and constructive.

Especially in smaller job markets, such as Singapore, or specialised industries, you never know who you might end up working with in the future.

Even some of the best resignation stories can end with an old manager coming into the picture later as a necessary reference, a future manager, or a network contact.

How to find your next job

Start by signing up for job alerts and getting new jobs that match your search criteria sent to your inbox. Rework your CV, contact a recruiter and start conversations with companies you want to work with.

Meanwhile, ensure that you are still present at your current job for as long as you’re able.

When interviewing for your next role, if a future employer asks why you’re leaving, speak more about you than about them – focus on opportunities for growth, new opportunities, and what you want to accomplish in the future.

After all, dwelling on negative aspects of your current company or manager might make you seem petty or over-emotional – not great qualities in a key hire.

Consult with a recruiter who can help you find roles that match your requirements and the next step in your career. Look for places whose values match yours, and who clearly walk the talk regarding these values.

Recruiters have the advantage that they communicate with both you and the employer, allowing you instant feedback on interviews and the hiring process.

Leave professionally

Leaving a job can feel personal, especially if you have a strong sense of company loyalty, have built a great team, or worked on pivotal projects. However, when it’s finally time to leave, try to take emotion away from the equation.

The important thing now is to look forward – and towards your next role, and to succeeding in the first few months of a job.

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How to handle the conversation about your resignation

deniseli — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 02:40:59 +0000

How to handle the conversation about your resignation deniseli

There are plenty of reasons to leave a job. Maybe it is because you are not happy where you are, or maybe it is because another company has offered you the chance to take on a new and exciting challenge, along with an attractive salary increase. But regardless of your reason for resigning, you should be 100% committed to your decision before informing your company of your plans to leave.

Your current company may give you a counteroffer to entice you to stay. And as flattering as the offer may feel at the time, there is evidence that accepting it could be damaging to your career, for the following reasons:

Your loyalty will be called into question if you decide to stay on. Your colleagues and manager might start to wonder if you are a team player and there is a high chance you will lose your place in the trusted inner circle.
The counteroffer might just be an excuse to keep you on until they find your replacement. Cognisant that you are still likely to leave in the future, your company might keep you on as a stalling tactic until they find someone else to take your place.

The underlying issues for your wanting to resign in the first place would likely not be resolved. Whether it is because you are unhappy with your manager or the company culture, chances are, these are problems that would not go away even if you decided to stay on.
Well-managed companies rarely make counteroffers. If a company believes its policies to be fair and equitable, it will also have policies in place that ensure it would not be subjected to “counteroffer coercion” to get employees to stay.

Be resolute during the discussion

When you have made the decision to resign, ensure that this decision is final and communicated in unequivocal terms to your hiring or HR manager. If you waver, you might be seen as threatening to resign to extract concessions from your organisation – and this is the last impression you want to be giving.

To eliminate any possibility of misunderstandings, always submit your resignation in writing. This letter should contain an unambiguous statement of resignation, an expression of thanks for the opportunities you were given, a final date of employment, and a statement that expresses your willingness to do your best in the transition period prior to your last day of work.

Should your hiring manager still bring up the possibility of a counteroffer, be firm in communicating that you are not interested in a “bidding war” for your services, before reaffirming your commitment to do whatever is needful before you leave.

Stay calm no matter what happens

The best outcome of this conversation would be for your manager to congratulate you on the new opportunity and wish you all the best in your future endeavours. However, be mentally prepared for things to take an awkward or uncomfortable turn.

Your manager might guilt-trip you or even display outright hostility. Regardless of how they react to the news of you leaving, you must always remain calm and professional. Try saying something like, “It was not my intention to upset you. Is there anything I can do to ease the transition?”

Remember that you might need to go back to the company you are leaving to request character references, so it is imperative that you keep any negative emotions in check and show empathy and kindness to your employer no matter how emotional the conversation becomes.

Leave no room for doubt about your professionalism – this is especially important if you work in a small industry where word can quickly spread about any bad behaviour on your part.

Avoid venting about your unhappiness

Another trap you want to avoid falling into has to do with the topic of why you have decided to leave. Even if you have been deeply unhappy for a long time, do not see this as a chance for you to unload or “give them a piece of your mind” before leaving.

Most companies do not change because of the resignation of a disgruntled employee. Simply reaffirm the fact that you have been presented with an opportunity that is too good to refuse.

Be mindful to stay out of the office gossip mill after submitting your resignation letter. Your colleagues will naturally be curious as to why you are leaving and bring it up with you. The best thing to do in this case is to reiterate what you told your employer about having a better opportunity elsewhere.

Finally, do not let your standards of work slip during your notice period. It will be obvious if you have mentally checked out during the final weeks with the company – and this is not the impression you want to be leaving before your exit.

Follow the strategies outlined above, and you will be able to resign without burning bridges and with your professional reputation intact. Staying calm, courteous and in control of your emotions at all times will only work in your favour.

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How to write a resignation letter

Anonymous — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 02:33:17 +0000

How to write a resignation letter Anonymous (not verified)

Congratulations! You have found a new job! Whether you are looking for better remuneration, better work culture, better chances for career advancement or leaving a toxic work culture, the next step is to resign from your current role by submitting your resignation letter.

Many people are unsure how to write a resignation letter. It’s a daunting task, so we’ve put together some helpful advice on how to resign from your current employer once you’ve landed your new role.

More than just a resignation letter, a well-written resignation letter can still solidify a lasting relationship with your existing employer.

What should I include in my resignation letter?

Your resignation letter acts as a formal recognition of your intent to leave the company. It will stay in your employee personnel file after you have left the company. Therefore, what you write in your resignation letter matters as it reflects who you are as a professional too.

Resignation letters do not require a massive amount of detail. You want to include the basics – your name, the addressee, and the date. You want to formally state that you’ll be terminating your employment and include your exit date. Lastly, sign the document if you are resigning in person.

End the letter with a thank you note to your hiring manager and, or company, and this will leave a civil and professional impression throughout the resignation process.

Related: Resignation letter templates

What shouldn’t I include in my resignation letter?

As with most professional matters, it’s a good idea to check your emotions at the door when you write a resignation letter. You do not need to explain why you’re leaving in your letter, as this could negatively reflect you.

Refrain from saying anything negative about your employer in the letter as it, in a way, offers you a platform to maintain a positive relationship with the company. If you want to explain your reasons for finding a new position or provide constructive feedback, do it at a face-to-face meeting or exit interview.

When and how should I submit my resignation?

Delivering your resignation news can be the most nerve-racking part of the entire process. First of all, communicate this only after you have written confirmation of your job offer from your new employer; this usually comes in the form of a signed contract.

Resigning in person

With the resignation letter in your hand, approach your manager at the end of the day. Sharing resignation news at the end of the day allows them to process your resignation without doing it while working through their meetings and deadlines for the day. And proceed with tact. Speak clearly in a firm voice but do not come across as aggressive or apologetic.

Some employees seek new opportunities because they have issues working with their current manager. If that is the case for you, take a deep breath and stay composed and professional throughout the conversation. As tempting as it can get, do not air any personal issues with them throughout the meeting. Don’t forget; you still need to work with them during your notice period. Say that you are moving on to a new role for your career, and thank them for their guidance.

Resigning through email

There are times where you cannot resign in person. Perhaps you work remotely or are experiencing a personal emergency where you have to resign immediately. Other times, you may be working in a psychologically unsafe environment or have a toxic manager.

If that is the case for you, you may email your resignation letter to your manager with a copy to your human resources manager. You can also copy your personal email address in the email so that you would have a copy of the email as well.

What happens after I have resigned?

You want to leave behind a good reputation. Even if you have had a glorious career at your company, any missteps during your notice period can ruin the reputation you have built over those past years.

So, it is imperative to give your 100% for the duration of your notice period to preserve your professional relationships at the company you are leaving. You would have to finish any urgent work, prepare your handover documents, and sometimes, even train your replacement.

(You may start receiving farewell lunch invitations from colleagues in different departments, but always keep in mind that finishing your work comes first. Lunch can wait. And long lunches are out of the question, unless it is with your manager.)

In some companies, the HR department will arrange an exit interview with you. Exit interviews are a formalised way for you to give feedback on your experience with the company. If you know that you have an effective HR department, you may communicate any glaring issues you may have experienced. If you are not comfortable sharing more details or are worried about any repercussions, you do not have to.

Leaving a job is never easy, but you can preserve your professional integrity with your previous employer if you communicate clearly and are sufficiently tactful.

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How to make a career change

Anonymous — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 20:14:03 +0000

How to make a career change Anonymous (not verified)

Most job seekers will experience a varied career path over their working life. Essential to making a career change of any scale a success is targeted research and thorough preparation. Follow these steps to maximise your chances of making a rewarding and fulfilling career change.

Step 1: Reflect on your preferences

To set the foundation for a successful career change you must first reflect on what really drives you. This will help you to determine the type of work you are most suited to, and open doors to careers you may not have considered. Ask yourself these questions:

What do you like or dislike about your current role and industry?
What has excited/bored you in past roles?
What are your personal interests and passions?
What are your key attributes, strengths and talents?
What would your ideal job look like?

Step 2: Research viable career change options

Based on your personal preferences, research some careers that appeal to you. Scan online career and job profiles to find out if the reality matches your expectations. Try to find out:

Roles that could suit your interests and abilities
The daily tasks involved in these roles and likely starting salary
If your skills, strengths and experience are transferable to the roles
The strength, stability and growth prospects of the industry

Step 3: Analyse your skills

Your career change will be smoother if you can find a role that builds on your existing skills. Think about the key transferable skills, strengths and experience you could bring to potential roles. Consider how past study and achievements could apply in a new context.

It’s also important to determine the skills you will need to bridge the gap to your new career. Research any additional training, education or experience you might need. If possible, try to volunteer or temp in your new industry to gain some experience before making your move.

Step 4: Expand your network

Get to know people who work in the field you want to enter. They may be able to offer you information and advice on your career change, introduce you to relevant people, supply you with job leads, or even provide referrals. Consider joining professional associations and seek out a mentor for advice on what it takes to succeed.

Step 5: Write a career change plan

Taking a strategic approach to your career change and following a structured plan will increase your chances of success. To get to your ultimate goal, list both short and long term milestones around education, skill development, networking and research and put time frame around their achievement. Be sure to also refresh your job-search skills, so that you can seize any opportunities that arise.

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9 tips to get you noticed by executive search specialists

krystinelumanta — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 05:36:27 +0000

9 tips to get you noticed by executive search specialists krystinelumanta

There comes a time in the career of many professionals, especially those in senior-level management roles, when the most likely source of alternative career options is via a professional recruitment consultancy. So, if your next role is in the hands of search firm, how do you go about catching their attention?

1. Boost your visibility

One of the most effective ways of being recognised and identified as a talent is to participate actively in dialogue within your field/industry. Speaking at industry events or conferences, having articles published or being quoted in relevant articles will increase your visibility.

2. Be recognised for your success

Typically, the more successful you are, the more likely it is that you’ll be approached by a search firm. People who stand out (in a good way!) are often easier to find. However, viewing yourself as successful is not quite enough. What matters is what other people, like your colleagues, ex-colleagues and competitors for example, think of you. Are there enough people out there who will recommend you and suggest your name if their opinion is sought?

3. Be recognised as an expert

Although the cultural fit between an individual and a potential employer will be a crucial element of the recruitment decision, most executive search consultants will be seeking individuals with specific skills and experience. If you’re acknowledged as being an expert or specialist, you have a greater chance of being approached by professional recruiters.

4. Network consistently

Many people talk about networking, but fewer actually do anything about it. Networking effectively among your peer group and across your industry is a powerful way to increase your chances of being noticed. Make an effort to stay in touch with talented and well-connected colleagues and reach out to other people whom you know are industry leaders in your area of expertise.

5. Invest in your network for the long term

The most successful networkers invest in their professional relationships consistently and over the long term. This type of behaviour is far more genuine and more likely to reward you than the ‘suddenly enthusiastic’ networking that people often end up trying when they need a job.

6. Social networking

LinkedIn, other social networking sites and search engines have changed some elements of the executive search process. While the traditional ‘black book’ approach remains valid, most researchers will also use a plethora of online tools as part of their ‘long-list’ building process. As a result, it is advisable to build yourself a compelling social media presence profile.

Ensure also, that any of your articles, industry comments and/or PR is visible online. Over-exposure is not advisable but some visible presence online will lead to more executive search specialists finding you more often.

7. Be patient

Genuine executive search campaigns are intended to find the best possible talent for a specific role and then persuade the most appropriate individuals to consider the role. Whether or not an individual is actively seeking to change jobs is normally irrelevant. The norm is for the consultant/researcher to call you and this partly explains why you might not find it easy to get in touch with them.

Most executive search professionals are specialists, so if your profile is highly relevant to the roles they recruit for, they are likely to be happy to talk to you and or meet you.

8. Use a search firm for your own recruitment

One of the easiest ways of developing a relationship with an executive search firm is to use them to recruit for you. The strongest professional relationships are often those that are truly beneficial to both parties. If you have discovered a search firm relevant for your own career development, contact them when you are hiring. They will take your call then! If you are known to that firm they may well contact you again on a future search.

Conflicts of interest and ‘off limits’ protocols are taken very seriously by professional search firms and this does limit some of the effectiveness of this approach. Nevertheless, if you are keen to invest in long term relationships, this approach is often successful.

9. Practice two-way communication

For most people, the answer to this question is both, but not always at the same time. Executive search consultants frequently end up placing people that they have met as clients and also work for clients they first meet as candidates. It is worth remembering that a talented recruiter may well be able to help your career as well as helping you find talent for your organisation.

If, in the past, you had decided not to take a call from a recruiter in case they were looking for business, they might not take your call when you are looking for a job. The same is true in reverse, of course, so the best advice for all of us is to take the time to communicate with each other.

Take a long-term approach to building strong, mutually-beneficial relationships with colleagues and key recruiters. Try to be visible and ensure that your key skills and achievements are in the public domain.

Michael Page

job search

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Three effective questions to guide your first 90-day agenda

willchin — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 02:08:06 +0000

Three effective questions to guide your first 90-day agenda willchin

You have the new title and the corporate lanyard, and your name-card is at the printers. Congratulations, your new role has begun: no doubt it feels great.

Yet that sound that you hear is the clock ticking – and guess what. Any lack of clarity around this new role is potentially hazardous to your prospects. A great deal is expected of you: but if you’re still not certain exactly what that is, that needs fixing. More to the point, you need to know clear what you should do first, in order to make your probation period impactful.

Fear not: the answers are often readily available. Sometimes it’s just a matter of asking a few key questions before knuckling down to the task. Just remember: the tasks that you were the most excited by during the interview should not necessarily be your immediate focus in months one to three. For your first 90 days, perfection can wait. It’s time to get busy on making an early impact towards proving your worth and integrating with the team.

1. What should my three top priority tasks be?

Typically, the job description (or JD) you’ve successfully answered reads like a laundry-list of skillsets – including the must-haves, the ought-to-haves, and even a few that are “we’d love these, but they’re not essential”. Now is the time to establish your priorities – and especially what you’re being measured by in the immediate future.

And in case simplification isn’t your manager’s best skill, be ready to step in. Frame the question in terms of percentages: if your whole job were to add up to 100%, how would its key tasks break down by percentage? Group together the three tops tasks, which hopefully comprise more than 50% of this list. These should be your must-haves to master. Write up and share a timeline to lock in the early deliveries on this list.

2. What are my success metrics for these tasks?

Your manager may well be overwhelmed as you arrive – team turnover and replacement can be taxing. This means however that there’s a strong chance that under pressure, your manager could prove guilty of judging your success or otherwise in a subjective, or even an unfair way.

While having an instinct for how you’re doing is not unreasonable as a contributing factor to performance, it shouldn’t be the only measure. Support your case with concrete numbers, to provide a good balance, especially in the face of unreasonable expectations.

Seek to get these target numbers verified by a trusted colleague, ideally well before you agree to them. Targets are negotiable: if not the actual number, then at least the time-frame could be. You’re unlikely to start at full speed during the orientation process, for instance. And remember, seeking to add a dose of realism to the role can ultimately prove a key to stabilising the function as quickly as possible, and showing that you know what you’re doing.

3. What immediate pressures does this role face?

Understanding the context of the conversation you’ve inherited is important. If your job’s previous occupant left in less than perfect circumstances, then you need to be mindful of the issues and potential hot-points around the role.

That said, you should not come in as immediately political. Asking this question of various people around you can give you important context, including establishing potentials allies, and those around whom you might proceed with caution. It is also asked in the best non-personal way, to establish that you’re just here to do a great job and not to play any games.

With the aid of these questions and plenty of work spent on delivery, you will start your role in style: and within three months on confirmation, people will already be seeing the difference you are making. If you continue to communicate clearly and effectively, your newfound prioritisation and context can be key tools for a successful new job.

Michael Page

changing jobs

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How to conduct yourself during your notice period

Anonymous — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 05:44:28 +0000

How to conduct yourself during your notice period Anonymous (not verified)

Upon leaving a role, it is common practice that you will serve a notice period, where you will carry out your normal duties. If you are in your first full-time role, you might find yourself asking, what is a notice period? A notice period is a period of time that an employee will work for a business between handing in their letter of resignation, and their last working day.

It is important to conduct yourself professionally throughout this time. Even though you are heading towards the end of your employment, you are still working for a business, so conduct yourself professionally. Now is not the time to start acting up or being slack with your workload.

How long is a notice period?

The period of time you are required to serve your notice for can vary. However, the period of time you are required to serve should be set out in your contract of employment. This should have been read and signed by yourself and your employer before you began working for the company. Your notice period can range between one to three months. However, if you are unsure then check your contract.

How to carry yourself during your notice period

You should continue your everyday work tasks as normal and offer ideas, and insights when required. We’ve provided some tips to make sure you are making the most out of your notice period:

Remain focused on your work.
Keep good attendance.
Don’t be late.
Don’t speak badly about the company or your boss to current colleagues.
Arrange an exit interview to discuss why you are leaving to help the company in the future.
Write a detailed handover of your workload, ready for your replacement to work from.
Whether your notice period is four weeks or three months, it is important to leave a good lasting impression. Regardless of the reasoning behind you leaving the organisation, remain professional throughout.

How to work through priorities with your manager

It isn’t uncommon for managers or colleagues to treat staff differently after they have handed their notice in. This isn’t guaranteed, but if it does happen, it shouldn’t change how you handle yourself as you walk out of the door.

Be sure to be proactive once you have handed your notice in. Set a meeting with your line manager to discuss priorities and organise your to-do list before you leave. It may be the case that you will have a dwindling workload towards the end of your time at the company, but the earlier you have this sit down with your manager, the sooner you can begin ticking off your checklist. There’s no doubt that your manager will be thankful for your willingness to help the organisation.

If you would like advice from one of our specialist recruitment consultants, please get in touch today.

Michael Page

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6 ways to market yourself to future employers

Anonymous — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 00:37:47 +0000

6 ways to market yourself to future employers Anonymous (not verified)

The job market can be competitive and having the right skills and experience isn’t always enough to secure you the job of your dreams. You must know how to market yourself effectively to really get noticed.

To win over employers, you’ll need to prove you have an excellent combination of relevant expertise and strong communication skills.

Generally speaking, good marketing is about establishing the needs of your target audience and positioning your brand to meet their demands. It’s exactly the same for a job candidate – you must offer the ideal solution through the perfect package.

Here are six great ways you can do so:

1. Identify a target audience

Understand your potential employers inside out. Do as much research as possible to help identify the ethos of the organisation and the skills, personality and knowledge they value highly. Use the job description as a lead and try to work out how this role will fit into the company’s bigger picture.

2. Know your USP

The term USP (unique selling point) is often bandied around in sales and marketing departments in many countries. This refers to the niche factor that makes a product or brand desirable and different from its competitors. Understand your own USP — it could be your specialist training or a unique combination of past experience and personal interests. Once you’ve honed in on your USP, make sure you let future employers know about it.

3. Have a way with words

Your terminology can be important when applying for a new role. Understand what key phrases and buzz words are particularly sought-after by potential employers in your industry. Certain jobs in specific sectors may look out for particular skills and training. If these buzz words genuinely apply to you, use them.

4. Show a little personality

Don’t be afraid to add a little flair and a personal touch to your application. Nobody is solely a collection of professional skills and employers may be keen to see a more human side. Your interests, passions and personal skills will be part of the whole package — so don’t forget to market yourself as a well-rounded individual.

5. Keep your finger on the pulse

Keep up-to-date with any developments and news in your industry to ensure your knowledge is always relevant and well-informed. Read industry publications, influential blogs and websites — you may find they help to inform your answers or provide discussion points when it comes to the interview stage.

6. Be digitally-savvy

The web has made it easier than ever to promote yourself. Social networking sites such as LinkedIn and Twitter now give you direct, accessible channels of communication through which to network and uncover new opportunities.

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Changing jobs

Resignation letter templates [2026 Update]

Why a resignation letter matters

Resignation letter format: Key elements of a resignation letter

Modern considerations for 2026

Email vs printed letters

Remote/hybrid etiquette

5 resignation letter templates

1) Standard resignation letter template for all situations

2) Resignation letter template for career advancement

3) Resignation letter template for pursuing a new role with a shorter commute

4) Resignation letter template when giving advance notice

5) Resignation letter template for a role that is not a good fit

Offboarding essentials

Know your worth before your next move

FAQs

1) What should I include in a resignation letter?

2) Can I resign via email?

3) Can I write a letter to resign from a job immediately?

4 How much notice should I give in Hong Kong?

5) Should I explain my reasons?

6) How do I handle client communications?

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How to write a farewell email to your colleagues (letter templates included)

Farewell letter templates

Version 1: Farewell email for supervisors/managers

Version 2: Farewell email for colleagues

Version 3: Farewell email for colleagues

Version 4: Farewell email for colleagues

Things to consider when writing a farewell message

1. Check with the boss before saying anything

2. The word is out that you are leaving – when should you say anything?

3. Get the subject matter right in your goodbye email

4. How to write your farewell email to colleagues

Be sure to show gratitude

Include relevant contact details

Consider a brief note for co-workers you are not close to

Use the right tone with your manager

Send the right message to your clients

Always remain respectful and polite

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What to do after being laid off: A guide to navigating this challenging time

How to recover from layoffs and get back on your feet

1. Acknowledge and process your emotions

Maintain a positive outlook

2. Understand your rights and finances

Review your severance package

Explore unemployment benefits

Create a budget

3. Redefining your career path: Reflection and exploration

Uncover your “why”

Explore new horizons

Clear your mind

4. Prioritise your mental health and well-being

Seek support

5. Leverage your network and announce your job search with confidence

Sample LinkedIn post template

6. Craft a winning job search strategy

Update your resume and LinkedIn profile

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