Resign the right way

You've accepted your new job. Now you need to resign. How you do it affects your reputation, references, and network for years to come. Here's how to do it professionally.

Many underestimate the resignation. But the industry you work in is often smaller than you think. Your boss today could be your client, partner, or reference tomorrow. Invest time in doing it right.

Check your contract first

Before you do anything, know the rules:

Notice period

• Most salaried employees in Denmark have 1-3 months notice
• The period often depends on seniority
• Check your contract or collective agreement
• Notice typically runs from the end of the month

Other clauses

• Non-compete clause: Can you work for competitors?
• Customer clause: Can you take clients with you?
• Bonus: Do you lose bonus upon resignation?
• Vacation: What happens to accrued vacation?

Tip: Contact your trade union if you're unsure about the rules.

Timing is everything

When and how you share the news matters.

Tell your boss first

• Never via email first — always in person or via video
• Tell them before rumors reach them
• Ask for a short meeting — "I'd like to talk to you about something"

Timing the conversation

• Not in the middle of a crisis or busy period (if possible)
• Not right before a deadline
• Early in the day is often best
• Make sure you have time for the conversation

The conversation with your boss

Be brief, clear, and professional:

What to say

• "I've decided to accept a new opportunity"
• "My notice period is X months, so my last day is [date]"
• "I appreciate my time here and want to ensure a good handover"

What NOT to say

• Criticism of the boss, colleagues, or company
• Details about your new job (salary, title) — unless they ask
• That you've been job hunting for a long time
• That you're relieved to get away

If they try to keep you

Be prepared for a counter-offer:

• Thank them for the offer, but stand by your decision
• Counter-offers rarely solve the underlying issues
• Your loyalty will be questioned going forward
• If you wanted to stay, you should have negotiated earlier

The written resignation

After the conversation, send a written resignation. Keep it short and formal:

Example:

Dear [Manager's name],

I hereby resign from my position as [title] at [company] effective today. In accordance with my contract, my notice period is [X months], meaning my last working day is [date].

I thank you for my time at [company] and look forward to ensuring a good handover during the notice period.

Best regards,
[Your name]

The final weeks

Your behavior during the notice period will be remembered:

Do

• Work just as hard as always
• Document your processes and tasks
• Train your replacement thoroughly
• Complete as many projects as possible
• Say proper goodbyes to everyone
• Update your LinkedIn (after your last day)

Avoid

• Mentally checking out
• Speaking badly about the company
• Taking confidential documents
• Recruiting colleagues to your new job
• Burning bridges

Common mistakes

• Telling colleagues before your boss: Rumors spread fast.
• Being too honest about the reason: "Because the boss is impossible" helps no one.
• Forgetting references: Ask for a reference while they still like you.
• Slacking off: The last weeks are remembered as clearly as the first.

Try it yourself

Before you resign:

• Read your contract and find your notice period
• Write your resignation letter in advance
• Plan what you'll say to your boss
• Make a list of tasks that need handover

Frequently asked questions

Next step

You've resigned. Now your first 90 days in the new job await. That's the period where you establish your reputation and prove your worth. In the next guide, we'll cover how to make the first months a success.