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Even if you’ve got an exciting new job lined up, drafting a resignation letter is always a big step.
A personal reason resignation letter – where you may or may not want to disclose your reasons for leaving your current employer – can be especially daunting.
Deciding what to share with your soon-to-be former employer, for example, can be difficult. It is important to remember that you are in no way obligated to disclose anything you do not want to.
That said, leaving on a courteous, professional note is always advisable. There are a few things you can do to ensure the door remains open down the line.
Related: How to resign from a job in Singapore
Why people sometimes leave companies for personal reasons
Depending on several factors – both at work and otherwise – you might choose to leave your employer for “personal reasons”.
These reasons can include anything from moving home to care for an elderly parent, or choosing to be a stay-at-home parent yourself, or health and mental health concerns you are currently facing.
What makes a personal reason resignation letter different from a standard resignation letter
A “personal reason” resignation letter is different from a standard resignation letter in that your motivations for leaving the company are personal.
Again, while you do not have to disclose these reasons unless you want to, they are vastly different from resigning to explore other aspects of your career path at a different company, for example.
Related: Resignation letter templates for jobs in Singapore
What to consider when writing a “personal reason” resignation letter (and what to avoid)
1. Speak with your manager
Regardless of what your reasons for resigning are, you should speak to your manager (ideally, in person) before handing in your letter.
Depending on your relationship with them, you may choose to disclose your reasons for leaving at this point.
2. Speak with your company’s HR department
Clarify any doubts you might have on accrued vacation days or benefits that are owed to you.
3. Give your employer adequate notice
Ideally, you want to give your employer enough time to find your replacement.
Depending on where you are based and your company’s policy (amongst other factors) this may be two weeks’ time or more.
Ensure your personal resignation letter clearly states your last date working at the company.
4. Offer to assist in handovers
Both in person and in your resignation letter, help in handing over projects to your replacement, if possible.
Additionally, attempt to complete any pending projects before your last date.
5. Show gratitude and, most importantly, do not vent
Irrespective of whether your time at the company was satisfactory to you or not, be courteous – both in person and in your resignation letter.
Thank your manager for the opportunity the role offered you and aim to leave on good terms.
Related: Is it a good idea to withdraw your resignation notice?
A sample “personal reason” resignation letter
(Current date)
Manager’s name
Company name
Company address
Dear (manager’s name),
Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from (company name). Although I have enjoyed working with you and the team at (company name), personal reasons demand that I resign from my current role as (role/title).
My last day with the company will be (date).
Before I leave, I’m happy to assist in any way possible to ensure a smooth transition to my replacement, in addition to completing my current projects.
I would like to thank you for the opportunity to work at (company) for (years of service). During this time, I have enjoyed working with the team and will miss our interactions.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need further information after I leave, and I would be delighted if you stay in touch.
Sincerely,
(Your signature)
(Your name and contact information)
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