How to Resign Amicably

When you have struggled with thoughts about your own future and finally made the decision to change jobs, you want to resign from your current company smoothly and amicably.

If you resign without completing a handover, you could, in the worst case, be sued for damages for causing harm to the company's operations.
Even if it doesn't go that far, you might not be paid your retirement allowance, or it might be reduced.
Also, your separation notice or withholding tax slip might not arrive in time, which could delay the enrollment procedures at your new job.
Furthermore, the risk of bad rumors spreading within the industry or among related parties that you are irresponsible increases significantly.

Aside from leaving a toxic company, basically, no matter the reason, as the proverb says, "A bird does not foul the nest it is about to leave," you should aim for an amicable resignation so that you can leave with a smile at the end.

I have written several articles about resignation in the past, so please take a look at those as well if you like.

So, how can you achieve an amicable resignation that is not a resignation agency service, not a quiet resignation, and not a revenge resignation?

I have written an article about retirement at mandatory age before, so today I will talk about the key points for changing jobs.

<When to give notice>

Once you have decided to resign, first take a look at your company's work rules.

Even if the company does not accept your resignation letter or tells you that they will not let you quit, under Article 627 of the Civil Code, your resignation becomes effective two weeks after you express your intent to resign.

However, if you are aiming for an amicable resignation, you should give notice before the period for advance notice of resignation stipulated in the work rules.
In many cases, this seems to be one to three months in advance.

<Who to tell>

Be sure to tell your direct supervisor.

You should definitely avoid consulting with colleagues first or posting it on social media.
Strange rumors might spread, which could put you at a disadvantage.

First, instead of asking for advice,
make an appointment by saying, "I have something I would like to talk to you about, could you spare some time?"
Do not do it via email or phone; you must meet and talk in person.

The discussion period should be about one week, with about two meetings, and you should not let it drag on too long.

<How to bring it up>

Start by saying, "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me,"
express gratitude first, then say, "Actually, after thinking about various things, I would like to resign at the end of *month,"

speaking frankly and with firm resolve. Then, say, "I am very grateful for everything I have learned here so far,"

expressing gratitude for the past, and then say, "I will take responsibility and carry out the handover of my duties thoroughly,"

leading into the handover after the decision.

<How to state the reason for resignation>

Even if you are asked for the reason for your resignation, you should not tell the truth.

You should show a positive attitude toward your future.

I have thought about how to phrase it for each real reason.

(In the case of career advancement)

"I have decided to challenge myself in a different field by utilizing the experience I have gained so far."

(In the case of skill development)

"I have decided to change my environment because I want to acquire more specialized knowledge and skills in the future."

(In the case where the job description was not a good fit)

"Considering my aptitude, I would like to demonstrate my abilities in a different field."

(In the case of dissatisfaction with salary or performance reviews)

"When considering my future plans, I decided to challenge myself in a new environment."

"I wanted to build a long-term career in an environment where my past achievements are fairly evaluated."

(In the case of interpersonal issues)

"I decided to change my environment and grow as an individual so that I can engage in more constructive discussions."

(In the case of long working hours)

"I decided to change jobs to improve my work efficiency and hone my skills in managing tasks strategically."

"I felt the need to re-evaluate the balance with my personal life."

(In the case of poor physical or mental health)

"I need to take care of my health, so I decided to reconsider my work pace."

(In the case of family circumstances)

"Due to family circumstances, I have found it necessary to reconsider my way of working."

(In the case of moving, or a partner moving)

"This is because commuting will become difficult due to a change in my place of residence."

(When starting your own business)

"I have decided to take the plunge and pursue a challenge I have been considering for some time."

(When aiming to obtain qualifications)

"Looking toward the future, I have decided that I would like to create a period where I can focus on my studies."

(When concerned about the company's future)

"This is the result of thinking proactively about my own career."

"When I think about where I will be in 10 or 20 years, my desire to challenge myself in a field with higher growth potential has become stronger."

(In the case of a second career)

"After considering my future life plans, I have decided to move on to a new stage."

(A versatile reason)

"After re-evaluating my career, I have decided that I want to challenge myself in a new environment."

(Closing remarks)

"Thank you very much for all your support until now. I will take responsibility for the handover until my final day."

<If you are asked to stay>

Showing signs of hesitation will only prolong the process, so say,
"I appreciate your kind words, but I would like to respect my own decision. I would appreciate your understanding."

Once your resignation is finalized, submit your resignation letter and begin the handover process.

<How to conduct a handover>

To ensure people say "that person did a good job" later on, youneed to prepare in advance and thoroughly.

○ Create a list of your assigned duties.

○ Create manuals and procedures for those tasks.

Organize materials so that anyone can understand them.

Summarize the progress of current projects.

Summarize important work deadlines and schedules.

Summarize the storage locations and access methods for all files.

Common issues and how to deal with them.

Names and contact information for internal and external stakeholders, along with key points and precautions when contacting them.

Make rounds to introduce your successor to clients.

Provide advice to your successor.

Save your paid leave for after the handover is complete.

<Administrative Procedures>

(Items to return)

Health insurance card, employee ID card, ID badge, company badge, business cards, commuter pass, computer, documents, etc.

(Items to receive)

(If held by the company) Employment insurance certificate, pension handbook

(At a later date) Separation notice, withholding tax slip

<Final Day>

Make rounds to greet everyone in your department and other departments you have worked with.
Bringing a box of sweets is appreciated.

Also, it is a good idea to exchange contact information with key members so you can stay in touch after you leave.

<Summary>

The key points for resigning amicably are

1. Never voice complaints or grievances.

2. Clearly communicate your intention to resign by meeting with your direct supervisor in person.

3. Work with sincerity and gratitude until the very end.

Gratitude is important here as well.

Thank you for reading.
I would appreciate it if you could like, follow, or leave a tip.
I look forward to your continued support.

#LetsTalkAboutWork