There's more to resigning from a job than just how to write a resignation letter. In fact, next to getting hired, how you resign might just be the next most important event in your tenure at a particular job.

Resignation letters are generally seen as irreversible. It's nearly impossible to resign one day, then tell your boss "just kidding" the next. So, first off, make sure you really want to quit.

Of course, when you quit your job, your top priority should be...do you have another job? There's a big difference between just thinking a company is going to hire you and actually having a contract. Although unethical, it's not unheard of for a company to promise you a job one day, then rescind that promise the next.

If you don't already have another job, how easy is it going to be for you to get one? Most job searches last from three to six months. Not only that, but it's much easier to land a new job when you already have one. Also, you generally make better decisions about which job to take when you're not under pressure to find work. Taking the wrong job can easily make things worse, not better.

By the way, if you don't have a contract for your new job, now's the time to spruce up your resume. Since seeing your resume is usually the first impression a future employer will have of you, it's imperative you send out a professional looking resume. Investing in a few resume writing books is a good idea. If you want a really outstanding resume, though, I would suggest you look into The Amazing Resume Creator. It's a dynamite piece of software written by a professional direct mail copywriting. Just click here to get the details.

So, let's assume you either have a job or you're very, very sure you can get another job in the near future, and you have the financial resources to carry you over.

When you resign, your number one goal is to leave your job gracefully and make a positive impression on your soon to be former employer. Doing this is not that difficult, you just have to remember the golden rule...and also read your employment contract.

Your employment contract will probably spell out how much notice you need to give. Take that as a minimum. Of course, you have to take your new employer into account. You'll want to start your new job in a timely manner.

A great way to help ease your current employer's transition is to offer to help with some of the training for your replacement. If, for instance, your new replacement can start before you actually leave, you can get him or her up to speed faster. Another great way to leave your employer with a good impression of you is to offer to help after hours for a few weeks. You can easily do this via email or phone.

Once you've thought out the details, it's time to actually write the letter. I've got a couple of samples below to help you get started, but basically you want to keep your letter short and sweet. Just make it as polite and simple as possible. Remember, this letter is going in your employee file, and later when you need a referral from your company, it will surely be read.

Next, make an appointment with your boss to tell him or her you're leaving, and present the letter. If you've had a less than stellar time at your current company, don't make this a finger pointing session. Last impressions are almost as important as first impressions.

Just sit down, tell your boss you're leaving, and then present the letter. Don't get into why you are leaving, unless asked. Even then, keep it positive and brief. If you need to, just say that the new job is going to take you further in the direction your life need to go.

You'll want to make sure you've got a copy of your resignation letter for yourself. You also might want to note on your copy the date and time you actually informed your boss of your decision--just in case.

There are a few other details to think about when quitting your job, insurance, vacation and sick time, what to do with your 401k or other retirement vehicle. You'll need to talk with your new employer about all of this so you can dovetail your old benefits into the new ones.

Once you've resigned stick to what your letter says. A resignation letter is essentially a mini-contract. When you clean out your office or workspace, make sure you take only your stuff! If you've got company items at home, a laptop for instance, then bring it all in before your last day. If these are expensive items, you might want to get a receipt.

In general, you want to make a clean break.

Once you're gone, never bad-mouth your old employer, even if you're changing industries and you think you'll never run into anyone from your old industry again. It's amazing how people are connected to each other. Six degrees of separation, remember?

The bottom line is when your old boss thinks about you, you want him or her to be thinking positive thoughts.

In short, don't burn bridges, build them!

First letter, slightly formal

Boss' Name, Title, Address Date

Dear Mr. Edwards,

It's been a real privilege to work for [such and such a company]. I've not only profited, but learned a great deal from my time here.

Unfortunately, I will be resigning as of [date]. This letter serves as my [specify time] notice. My last working day will be [date].

I am very grateful for the opportunity you have given me.

Sincerely,

Bill Williams

Another letter, perhaps more informal.

Boss' Name, Title, Address Date

Dear Steve Edwards,

Steve, I've had a great time working with you for [company name]. Unfortunately, I'll be resigning effective [date].

The work here has been great! When you hired me, you gave me a real opportunity that I will always appreciate.

[date] will be my last day.

If I can help fill my vacancy in any way do not hesitate to let me know. Also, let's make sure we stay in touch.

All The Best,

Bill Williams