While it’s always nice to resign in person, sometimes it’s just not practical. In that case, call your manager and let them know and follow it up in writing. Always offer two weeks and let your current employer decide whether or not to take you up on that.

Friday afternoon is the best time to tender a resignation. This allows you to go home for the weekend, relax, celebrate the new position and not be distracted by multiple calls from your current employer wanting to follow up. Here’s an example of a very simple resignation letter, which can be expressed verbally:

Dear Manager:

This letter serves as official notification of my resignation with [Company], effective [Date]. I have accepted an outstanding position with Company where my employment starts [Date].

It is very important that it be understood that my decision to resign was based solely on the opportunity afforded to me with Company. This decision was not easy and involved much thoughtful consideration. Nevertheless, the decision is final.

Please do not make this process more difficult than it need be by discussions of the reasons for my decision or whether it can be changed. My main thoughts now are to work as hard as possible to wrap up my affairs here and turn over my responsibilities as you direct.

I would like to thank you, [Manager], for making my experience at [Company] very rewarding. I have valued your support and leadership, and want to wish you much continued success.

Regardless of whether you resign in person, over the phone, or in writing, do it with a positive approach and grateful attitude. In addition, if there are issues that you can discuss in an exit interview that your past employer can benefit from knowing, by all means do so.