When you accept a new job, a short, polite resignation letter keeps your reputation and references intact. It also starts your notice period, so the date on it matters.
What to include
- The date and the person you are writing to, usually your manager.
- A clear statement that you are resigning and your job title.
- Your notice period and last working day.
- A thank you and an offer to help hand over your work.
- Your signature.
Notice periods
Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, the minimum notice is one week if you have worked for the employer for six months or less, two weeks if more than six months but not more than a year, and four weeks after a year. Your contract may require more, such as a calendar month, so check it before you choose your last day.
Template
“Dear Ms Dlamini, Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as Sales Administrator. In line with my contract, my last working day will be 30 November 2026. Thank you for the support and opportunities over the past three years. I will do everything I can to hand over my work smoothly. Kind regards, Thandi Nkosi.”