Resigning yourself: what do you need to consider? (2025)

The decision to resign Taking the plunge rarely comes out of the blue. Perhaps you've been contemplating it for a long time, with doubts that are only growing stronger. But when is precisely the right time to make the decision? And what do you need to consider?

We speak to many people who are dealing with redundancies, whether compulsory or voluntary. In our legal practice, we hear essentially the same signals coming back constantly. We make a distinction between work-related signals and personal signals.

• You no longer get any enjoyment from your work and drag yourself into the office every morning.
• You feel stuck. There are no opportunities for growth. 
• You feel undervalued or unheard by your manager.
• The company culture has changed or simply no longer fits with you as a person.
• You are being structurally overstretched or have to take on tasks from others, without adequate compensation.

• Your health is suffering due to work stress (think, for example, of sleep problems, headaches, burnout symptoms).
• Your work-life balance is non-existent. You come home from work and the worrying begins.
• You have been offered a better job.
• You want to make a career switch or start your own business.
• Personal circumstances require a change (moving home, expanding the family).

Before you resign yourself, it is very important to remain realistic. Ultimately, finances are also very important and if you cannot make ends meet, that will cause you a lot of stress again. You want to avoid that, of course. First, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you have enough savings for at least 3-6 months of living expenses?
• Are there outstanding debts that you still need to pay off?
• Do you have a new job or concrete prospects yet?
• Can you fall back on a partner or family if necessary?

A wise man once said that good preparation is half the battle. And that's no different when you resign yourself. By planning carefully, you prevent unpleasant surprises and maintain a strong negotiating position.

Your employment contract contains a lot of information that you'll need beforehand. Get your employment contract out again and check your:

• Notice periodHow many months in advance do you need to give notice?
• Competition clauseCan you start working directly for a competitor?
• Study expense clauseDo you have to repay training costs? If so, how much?
• Bonus schemesWhen does your right to a bonus expire?
• HolidaysHow many days do you have left?

Make copies of all relevant documents before announcing your resignation. You may need these at a later date.

• Employment contract and any addenda
• Payslips for the past 12 months
• Performance reviews and appraisals
• Emails regarding commitments or agreements
• Overview of overtime and holiday days

Timing is everything. Consider these factors:

• End-of-year bonus: Wait until this has been paid out
• 13th month: Check when you are entitled to this
• Projects: Finish important projects properly

Now that you are well prepared, it's time for action. Follow this step-by-step plan for a professional departure.

The first conversation is crucial. Plan this carefully:

• Choose the right momentNot on Mondays or Fridays, ideally mid-week
• Reserve sufficient timeAt least 30 minutes without interruptions
• LocationA quiet space where you can talk undisturbed
• PreparationPractice what you want to say, stay business-like and positive.

Conversation starter example:
"I appreciate you making time for me. After much consideration, I've decided to pursue a new challenge. I would like to tender my resignation and discuss with you how we can manage this as smoothly as possible."

During the conversation, it's important to:

• To remain calm and polite, even if your manager reacts emotionally
• To be clear on your decision - this is not a negotiation
• To think constructively regarding the handover of your tasks
• No negative statements to do about colleagues or the company

Immediately after the call, send a confirmation email:

• Confirm your cancellation date
• Repeat agreed arrangements
• Request confirmation of receipt

Within 24-48 hours of the conversation, you must submit your formal letter of resignation. This is a legal requirement.

As we just saw in step 4, your resignation letter is an official document that is legally required. A well-drafted letter prevents misunderstandings between both parties and protects your rights. 

1. Clear explanationI hereby submit my resignation"
2. Notice periodI shall take into account the notice period of [number] months"
3. Last working dayMy last working day will be on [date]"
4. TransferI will ensure that my responsibilities are handed over properly."

• Keep it brief and to the pointMaximum one A4
• Stay positiveEven if you leave for negative reasons
• No detailsYou don't need to give an extensive reason.
• Request confirmationImportant for your file