Once your resignation is in writing, your bridges are burned and there is no going back. Are you sure there is no possibility of promotion or a pay rise in this company? Have you discussed any problems with your boss or human-resources manager to try to resolve them?

It's a good idea to write down all the advantages and disadvantages of both resigning and staying, then choose the course of action with the most advantages. Don't forget to include logical reasons - it's nto so far to commute -and emotional reasons - I hate the view from my window - in your lists.

Resign the right way
Wait for a job offer in writing before handing in your notice because oral offers can be withdrawn. Don't do anything until the new employer has completed any investigations into your background. The written job offer is an opportunity for you to check that your new job really is going to be better than the current one. The required notice period should be specified in your contract – check this carefully because it does vary. There are three main things to do when you resign:

Tell your boss - prepare what you're going to say and stay cool. It's best to state briefly why you want to take up the new position rather than why you want to leave this one.

Write your resignation letter - see below

Tell your colleagues – be sensitive because some may feel betrayed, abandoned or jealous. To stem any resentment, keep your explanations as positive as possible, avoid criticising the current employer and don't brag about your new job.

Resignation letters
The best letters are short, polite and direct. Here is a typical example:

Dear XXX
I have decided to resign from my position as (job role) with (name of company) to take up an offer from another firm. Since the required period of notice is (x weeks) from today, my last day of work will be (day and date). Yours sincerely...

If you've had a very good relationship with your boss, you may want to soften the blow by adding something like:

I would like to take this opportunity of thanking you for all the help and support you have given me while I have been part of the xxx team. I appreciate everything that has been done for me during my time here and I wish the company every success in the future.

Be professional
It is extremely unprofessional to put any negative thoughts about your boss in writing – it could even be considered libelous. You can save any negative feedback for the HR manager - if you have one. In the exit interview, try not to make personal value judgments like, 'This is a terrible place to work.' Instead, say why it's a terrible place – 'I am overloaded with work' or 'The pay is low compared with other companies'. Don't make your list of complaints too long, though, you'll make a better impression if you choose only one or two significant points. But try hard to think of some positive things to say, too – it can't have been all bad!

Finally, keep things professional during your last few days and try to tie up any loose ends before you leave. Good luck with the new job!