Shawnee Love   •  
June 18, 2015

I have had 3 clients come to me with questions about whether or not their employee has effectively resigned?

I am always cautious when I hear “effectively resigned”, because a resignation needs to be clear.

When an employee tells you:

• I am going to start looking for another job,
• I am leaving at some point in the future, or
• I am going to call in sick because you wouldn’t give me vacation for next week.

Those are not resignations.  Those are merely indications of intent although the last point may be grounds for discipline if your policies are clear.

As the employer, if someone comes to you saying they are thinking of resigning, it is your responsibility to get it in writing.  Here is what you want your employee to include in that letter:

1. The date of the letter (typically the current date)
2. The amount of notice being provided (often two weeks)
3. The last day the employee will work.

For example:

June 16

Dear Boss.

I am giving you 2 weeks notice as I am resigning my job.  My last day of work will be June 30.

Simple and clear.  When you receive it, date stamp it and ensure you let the employee know you have received it.

If you are interested, come back next week and we will discuss what to do after your employee gives notice.