Guide to managing an employee resignation

£ 14

Our Guide to Managing an Employee Resignation offers step-by-step instructions for a smooth transition, ensuring professionalism and maintaining positive relationships.

5 minute read • 29 January 2025
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managing an employee resignation

Managing an employee's resignation is a sensitive and important process for both the employee and the organisation. Here is a guide to ensure a smooth and professional transition:

Acknowledge the Resignation

  1. Initial Acknowledgement: Start by acknowledging the employee's resignation in writing, expressing appreciation for their contributions. This sets a positive tone and shows respect for their decision.

  2. Immediate Reaction: Avoid reacting emotionally or impulsively. If the resignation was unexpected or delivered in the heat of the moment, give the employee time to reconsider their decision before formalising it.

Discuss Transition

  1. Schedule a Meeting: Arrange a face-to-face meeting to discuss the transition. This meeting should cover the following aspects:

    • Responsibility Handover: Identify key responsibilities and projects that need to be transferred.

    • Knowledge Transfer: Ensure critical knowledge and information are documented and shared with colleagues.

    • Client and Contact Handover: Introduce and transition client relationships to other team members.

  2. Timeline and Support: Establish a clear timeline for the handover process and

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What is this for?

The guide to managing an employee resignation is a comprehensive resource providing managers with practical steps to handle the resignation process smoothly.

It covers essential aspects such as exit interviews, transition planning, and maintaining positive relationships.

This guide's purpose is to assist managers in navigating employee departures with professionalism, ensuring a constructive departure experience for both the departing employee and the team.

guide to managing an employee resignation
  • Employment Rights Act 1996: Outlines the legal framework for employee resignations and notice periods.

  • Equality Act 2010: Ensures fair treatment and prevents discrimination during the process of managing employee resignations.

  • Data Protection Act 2018 (incorporating GDPR): Mandates the handling of personal data during the resignation process in compliance with data protection principles.

  • Company Policies and Employment Contracts: Internal policies and contractual agreements may outline specific procedures for managing employee resignations.

  • Common Law Principles: Legal principles, including those related to notice periods and contractual obligations, guide the process of managing employee resignations.

Documentation sequence

Previous
Letters
Resignation letter template

Our resignation letter template can be used by an employee as a formal method of submitting notice that they intend to resign from their employment.

This
Guide to managing an employee resignation
Next
Letters
Resignation acceptance letter template

If an employee resigns, issue this model resignation acceptance letter to provide specific end of contract information, such as the date of their last day of work.

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