resignation

Resignation is the voluntary departure of an individual from a job, position, or role. It ends the employment relationship initiated by the employee and is distinct from dismissal or retirement, which involve the employer's decision or an automatic retirement.

Resignations vary in timing and motive. They can be immediate or announced with a notice period, planned months in advance, or prompted by ethical concerns, health, family needs, or a better opportunity. Some discussions use the term constructive resignation when continuing to work is not viable, but the outcome remains the employee leaving.

Typical formalities include a written notice or resignation letter, notifying the supervisor or human resources, and arranging a handover of responsibilities. Contracts or local law may require a specific notice period; organizations sometimes offer garden leave or impose restrictions on competition or information handling.

Legal and practical considerations depend on jurisdiction and contract. Common elements include notice obligations, final pay, accrued benefits, return of property, confidentiality, and non-disclosure of proprietary information. Employees should ensure compliance with notice and any exit procedures to protect future references.

Effects of resignation include the end of compensation and benefits, loss of status, and impacts on professional reputation and career opportunities. For employers, resignations create vacancies and can affect morale, workforce planning, and knowledge transfer.