Buzz
Are you considering quitting your job for a new opportunity but unsure how to inform your supervisor via text? Due to the recent labor shortage, employees have gained more leverage, and you might have seen screenshots of disgruntled workers texting their bosses to announce their resignation. Is it appropriate to resign via text? And if you decide to send a message, how should you word it? We’ll address these questions and more in the guide below.
Steps
Should You Resign via Text Message?
Only resign via text if you want no further ties with the workplace. Typically, managers prefer a face-to-face conversation when you plan to leave. However, if your work environment is so toxic that you can’t bear an unnecessary conversation with your supervisor, then there’s no need to feel guilty about sending a text.
A phone call or email is a better choice to maintain goodwill. Employers often contact references from your previous workplace before hiring you, so it’s a good idea to maintain a positive relationship with your supervisor. Sending an email or making a call is more professional than texting.
- Your message might get overlooked if your boss doesn’t pay attention to texts. A phone conversation ensures your boss is aware of your resignation.
- Typically, you need to inform your supervisor directly about your resignation. You should also tell them before sharing the news with colleagues. Avoid letting your supervisor hear about your departure from someone else; this helps maintain their goodwill.
- You might have various reasons for leaving a job, depending on your personal or financial circumstances.
- It’s best to wait until you’ve secured a new job before resigning.
- Instead of quitting, you might find projects or areas within your current job that allow you to do what you love and leverage your strengths.
Tips for Sending a Resignation Text
Notify your supervisor early. Generally, a two-week notice is standard. Try to inform them as soon as possible, but if your current work environment is unbearable and you need to leave immediately, you might have no choice but to give short notice.
Keep your writing professional. Even if your boss hasn’t treated you professionally, strive to appear confident, mature, and serious in your response. Draft the text as you would a formal email, avoiding slang and abbreviations like “ko,” “đc,” or “thx.”
- As with professional emails, proofread for spelling and grammar errors before sending. If you’re unsure about your writing skills, ask a friend or family member to review it.
Maintain a positive or neutral tone about your job. If you want to minimize the risks of negative consequences from resigning, this isn’t the time to vent, even if you have valid reasons. If you can’t say you enjoyed your time at the company, say something general like, “Thank you for the opportunity to work here.”
Offer to submit a formal resignation letter. Since you’re resigning informally, it’s a good gesture to express your willingness to provide a formal resignation letter for clarity.
Sample Resignation Text Messages
Sample 1:
- “I’m texting to let you know that I’ll be resigning in two weeks (20/2). Thank you for the opportunity to work here, but I’ve decided it’s time to pursue other opportunities. I’m happy to provide a formal resignation letter if needed—just let me know. I’ll ensure my current project is completed before I leave.”
Sample 2:
- “I regret to share some unfortunate news, but due to personal family matters, I’ve decided to leave my current position. My last working day will be one week from today. Thank you for this opportunity, and if you need a formal resignation letter, please let me know.”
Sample 3:
- “I apologize for the last-minute notice, but I’ve decided to resign and won’t be returning to the company. Thank you for your support.”
