Leaving a resignation letter on someone's desk without discussing it with them or giving notice beforehand is generally not the most professional or respectful way to handle the situation. It's always better to follow proper resignation etiquette to maintain positive relationships and uphold your professional reputation.
When resigning from a job, consider the following steps:
Schedule a meeting: Request a private meeting with your immediate supervisor or manager to discuss your decision to resign. This should ideally be done in person or, if not possible, through a video call.
Deliver the news in person: In the meeting, inform your supervisor about your decision to resign and provide a resignation letter in physical or digital form. The letter should be polite and concise, expressing your gratitude for the opportunities provided and your intention to leave the company.
Give appropriate notice: Unless there are exceptional circumstances that require an immediate departure (e.g., a toxic or unsafe work environment), it's customary to provide a notice period. Two weeks is a standard notice period in many industries, but this can vary depending on your contract and the company's policies.
Be professional and positive: During the meeting, maintain a professional demeanor and avoid being negative or critical about the company or your colleagues. Keep the focus on your decision to pursue other opportunities or personal reasons.
Offer to help with the transition: Show willingness to help with the transition during your notice period, such as training your replacement or preparing documentation for your projects.
By following these steps, you display professionalism and respect towards your employer, colleagues, and the organization as a whole. Leaving a resignation without proper communication or notice could create an unfavorable impression and potentially burn bridges, which may impact your future career opportunities and references.