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Leaving a job is a significant step in each of our professional lives. Whether you are leaving to take a new opportunity, or for other personal or professional reasons, it is important to do so in a respectful and professional manner. Leaving properly not only preserves your dignity, but can also open doors in the future. The world is a small village, and good relationships with employers and colleagues can benefit you even after you have left. In this article, we will review all the steps necessary to leave a job gracefully, from the decision to leave to the last minute – including writing a resignation letter and maintaining good relationships.

When is it time to leave?

Sometimes it’s hard to know when it’s really time to leave. There are signs that can help us understand that it’s time to change direction. First, there are internal signs: if you start to feel dissatisfied at work, if you wake up in the morning and don’t feel like going to work, or if you feel like you’re not progressing or learning new things – these can be clear signs. Feelings of burnout or exhaustion are also a strong indication. Sometimes, the job simply doesn’t fit your personality or values anymore. For example, if you feel like the organizational culture doesn’t suit you, or you don’t feel valued, it could be a sign that it’s time to look for something else.

On the other hand, there are also external signs: perhaps you have received a more attractive job offer, perhaps there are changes in the organization that are detrimental to your working conditions, such as budget cuts or a change in the organizational structure. Even if the conditions offered elsewhere are better, this could be a sign that it is time to move on. It is important to ask yourself: "Do I really want to stay here? Do I have a future in this place?" If the answers are not convincing, it is probably time to think about leaving.

But don't rush. Before you jump in, it's important to stop and think. Are you leaving because of a moment of frustration or because of real plans for the future? Experts also recommend considering talking to your manager about the problems. Sometimes, a small change in role or conditions can be enough to improve the situation. For example, if you're feeling stuck, maybe talking to your manager will lead to an offer of a new role or increased responsibilities. But if you're sure it's time to leave, move on to the next step.

Preparing for resignation

Once you’ve decided it’s time to leave, it’s important to prepare yourself for the process. The first step is to talk to your direct manager. Don’t hand in your resignation letter without giving prior notice – it can come across as unprofessional. Plan the conversation in advance: think about what you’ll say and how you’ll convey the message. Be honest, but also diplomatic. Don’t criticize the company or the manager, but focus on your reasons. For example, you could say: “I’ve decided to look for new challenges” or “I want to advance in my career.” If the reason is personal, like moving or health issues, you can mention it briefly, but there’s no need to go into detail.

It's important to remember that your manager may be surprised or even disappointed. He or she may try to convince you to stay, and may even offer changes in terms, such as a raise or a change in role. Listen to these suggestions, but don't compromise if you're certain you're leaving. Even if you've made up your mind, try to be positive and show appreciation for your time there. For example, you could say, "I've really enjoyed working here, but I feel like it's time for me to move on."

Another thing: Give advance notice. According to the Israeli advance notice law, you must give your employer at least 14 working days if you have worked for less than a year, or 30 working days if you have worked for more than a year (all rights reserved). But if you are in a senior position or have a critical role, you should consider giving more time – it will show responsibility and professionalism. Make sure you know what your employment contract says and what your rights are. If you are planning to start a new job, adjust the start date so that you can meet your obligations at your current place.

Writing a resignation letter

The resignation letter is a critical part of the process. It should be clear, concise, and professional. This is not the place to list personal reasons or complain about the company. The goal is to leave a positive impression and end the relationship on good terms. By law in Israel, advance notice must be given in writing, so the resignation letter is not only polite, but also a legal obligation (all rights).

Here is an example of a basic resignation letter:

[date]
[Employer name]
[Employer's role]
[Company name]
[Company address]

נושא: Notice of resignation

Hello [Employer Name],

I am writing to announce my resignation from [company name], and my last day will be [date].
I thank you and the team for the opportunity to work here and for the experiences I have gained.
I would be happy to help with the transition process and ensure that the transfer of tasks is carried out smoothly.

Best regards,
[Your full name]
[Your role]

If there is a specific reason for leaving, such as moving or health issues, you can mention it briefly, but don't go into detail. Here are two more examples:

• Due to moving:

[date]
[Employer name]
[Employer's role]
[Company name]
[Company address]

נושא: Notice of resignation

Hello [Employer Name],

I am writing to announce my resignation from [company name] due to a move to [new location]. My last day will be [date].
I apologize for the inconvenience and would be happy to help find a solution for my role.
Thank you for the opportunity to work here and for the support I received.

Best regards,
[Your full name]
[Your role]

• Because of a new opportunity:

[date]
[Employer name]
[Employer's role]
[Company name]
[Company address]

נושא: Notice of resignation

Hello [Employer Name],

I am writing to announce my resignation from [company name] to pursue a new professional opportunity. My last day will be [date].
I thank you for the support and opportunities you have given me during my time working here.
I would be happy to assist with the transition process and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Best regards,
[Your full name]
[Your role]

It is important to deliver the letter in person, if possible. If not, send it by email, but make sure you have a copy for your records. It is also recommended to send a copy to the Human Resources department.

The notice period

During the notice period, it is important to continue to work at a high level. Don’t think that because you are leaving, you can slack off. On the contrary – this is an opportunity to show your professionalism. Assist in the smooth transition of your tasks: document the processes, write instructions for performing tasks, and train the replacement if there is one. If there is no replacement, make sure that your work is transferred to someone else in an orderly manner.

Use this time to finish open projects, organize documents, and keep your desk (and digital files) clean and tidy. For example, if you are responsible for a particular system, write a short guide explaining how to use it. This will show that you care about the company and your colleagues, and it will leave a positive impression. Chaya Bornstein, CEO of Dialog, recommends: “Treat the company like family – don’t leave on a sour note, especially if you want recommendations in the future” (Dialog).

maintaining good relations

Even after you leave, it's important to maintain good relationships. The world really is a small village, and you may run into the same people at future workplaces. Send a farewell email to the team, thank them for the shared experiences, and ask to stay in touch. For example: "Thank you all for the great time we had together. I hope we'll stay in touch!" You can also connect them on LinkedIn or send them occasional updates.

It’s also important to be available for small questions after you leave. If someone needs help with something you know, like the location of a document or the code for a contract, it’s okay to answer—but set boundaries. Don’t feel obligated to work overtime after you’ve already left. Remember, you’re working somewhere else now. Experts say maintaining good relationships can benefit you in the long run, especially if you need recommendations or want to return to the company in the future (Michael Page).

Legal considerations and human resources aspects

Before you leave, make sure you are getting everything you are entitled to by law. In Israel, there are specific rights that are important to know:

right	Description
Severance Pay	If you have worked for more than a year, you are entitled to severance pay (one month's salary for each year of work). In some cases, such as resignation after childbirth, you are entitled even if you have resigned (full entitlement).
Recovery fee	Make sure you get all the vacation days you have accrued.
Rent refund	If you received rent, make sure it is returned.
Latest payslips	Request all your receipts for review and documentation.
Employment termination letter	The employer must give you an official letter of termination of employment within two weeks of the last day (all rights reserved).

If in doubt, do not hesitate to seek legal advice or an employment office. It is also important to check whether you are entitled to unemployment benefits – this depends on whether your departure is considered “fair” (for example, if you gave advance notice). In addition, ask for a written recommendation from your manager, especially if you worked well and left a positive impression. Such a recommendation can help you find a new job.

conclusion

Leaving a job is not the end, but the beginning of a new chapter. How you leave affects not only the present moment, but also the future. A proper and respectful departure shows professionalism, responsibility, and the ability to maintain good relationships – things that can benefit you throughout your career. Remember, the relationships you build now can open doors in the future. For example, an employee who left his job honorably said: “After I left, my manager recommended me for a new job, and that helped me a lot. I’m glad I maintained good relationships.”

So take your time, prepare yourself, be professional, and leave in a way you can be proud of. The world is yours, and the way you choose to leave can be the first step towards greater things.

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