Accepting a new job means looking towards the future, but many employees are so focused on what is ahead that they neglect to put time and effort into making sure that they leave on good terms with supervisors and co-workers. Here are some tips for resigning from your job gracefully.

• Be Prepared.
  Consider what you will say, when you will say it, and to whom. You should notify your supervisor first.
• Be honest.
  After telling your supervisor about your resignation, be honest with your colleagues about your decision to leave.
• Be brief.
  When you give your employer your resignation, whether it is in person or in writing, be honest about your reasons for leaving, but steer clear of negative comments. If you choose to resign in person, send a letter confirming your resignation after you have spoken to your employer.
• Be calm.
  Don’t allow yourself to become upset or to deviate from your intended comments should you receive a negative reaction from your employer.
• Be accommodating.
  Remain as flexible as possible when negotiating a finishing date.
• Be cooperative.
  When asked for documents, files, and projects that you were working on before your resignation, be professional.
• Be cognizant.
  If you have negative feelings towards your employer or colleagues that you feel you must express, be tactful. Consider what you will say beforehand, and communicate those thoughts in person, never in written form.
• Be appreciative.
  Express your gratitude to your employers for the opportunities and training you have received. Thank your colleagues for the knowledge they have shared.
• Be positive.
  Maintain positive relationships with your employer and your colleagues. By doing so, you will leave the door open for references, job opportunities, and friendships with contacts within your industry.
• Be current.
  Before you leave the company, make sure you receive what is owed to you, like unused sick time or vacation time.
• Be ready.
  If your employer gives you a counter-offer, think carefully before accepting. If your issue with your old job was not solely monetary, ask yourself whether the cause of your unhappiness will change if you accept the counter-offer. Secondly, consider whether or not you wish to continue working for an employer to whom you have already handed in your resignation – it may affect the way your employer and your colleagues treat you. Finally, think about whether the counter-offer will damage your relationship with your new employer.
• Be friendly.
  Once you have started your new job, don’t neglect friendships with your former colleagues and employers. These contacts may be beneficial in the future.