Have you just submitted your resignation letter to your boss at work, then suddenly changed your mind for one reason or another? Unfortunately, a letter that has already been submitted will not be able to disappear just like that. So what should be done in such a situation? The only wise step to take is to draft a resignation letter. After that, schedule an internal meeting with superiors and/or HR department representatives in the office to discuss next steps. While they may not necessarily be willing to pull you back, at least the chances will increase if you are able to show a professional attitude in the process.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Writing a Resignation Withdrawal Letter
Step 1. Set the letter format
In general, the format of the letter should be set as a business document that uses Times New Roman font with a size of 12 pt, then addressed the letter to the party who received your resignation letter, such as your direct supervisor or HR department.
Remember, the initial formatting of paragraphs in business letters is not indented. Instead, different paragraphs should be separated by a single blank line
Step 2. State your wishes clearly and firmly
In other words, your desire to return to work at the company should be very clearly reflected in the first paragraph. Don't forget to include the date of submission of your resignation letter, OK!
For example, you could write, "This letter is my official statement to withdraw the resignation letter that you have received on May 22, 2017."
Step 3. Explain the reason behind your desire
In the second paragraph, explain the reasons behind your desire to continue working there in more detail. Be careful not to admit that you failed when you tried to apply elsewhere. Instead, provide a general explanation of how the job will benefit you. There is no need to talk too long in the letter, especially because you can give a more complete explanation when dealing directly with your boss later.
- For example, you might write, “This job has provided me with many opportunities to enrich my knowledge and practical skills. Therefore, I believe the company will benefit if it is willing to accept me back.”
- Chances are, you'll also want to return to work there because your boss is willing to offer you a more favorable offer, such as a higher salary or heavier responsibilities. If that's the case, don't forget to include these details in the body of the letter and indicate your willingness to accept them.
Step 4. End the letter with a positive tone
In the third and last paragraph, try to win over your boss even more by writing positive things about your company. Do not forget to thank you for all the experiences and lessons you have received while working there.
- For example, you might write, “I hope to be given the opportunity to continue working at Acme Consulting. My deepest apologies for any inconvenience I have caused, and thank you very much for understanding.”
- Include a formal closing greeting such as “Sincerely,” followed by your full name and signature.
Step 5. Submit the letter as soon as possible
Remember, the resignation letter must be received by the employer immediately, ideally no later than two days after your resignation letter submitted to him. Don't forget to keep a copy of the letter, too!
Part 2 of 3: Communicating with Bosses
Step 1. Schedule an internal meeting or meeting with your boss as soon as possible
Immediately communicate your desire to return to work there after submitting your resignation letter. If the system that applies in your office tends to be casual, come to the office and invite your boss for a one-on-one chat. If the system is more formal, contact your supervisor's secretary to submit an agenda for an internal meeting, and don't forget to mention that this situation is very urgent for you.
When you meet with your boss, bring a copy of your resignation letter in case your boss doesn't keep it or has trouble finding it
Step 2. Express your wish to return to work there
It's normal to feel a variety of emotions in situations like this. Fortunately, there's not much to say because all you have to do is express your desire to return to work there and withdraw the resignation letter that the employer has received.
Step 3. Offer a sincere apology
Remember, the employer may have advertised or offered the position to someone else. Or, he has even asked your subordinates to fill the void. By changing your mind, you've actually messed up a lot of people's plans. That's why, sincerely apologizing is the thing to do!
For example, you could say, "I know this situation might be uncomfortable for you, but I'm interested in continuing to work here."
Step 4. Explain the reason for your resignation
If your resignation letter is being submitted very suddenly, you likely don't have time to really explain the reasons behind it to your boss or other coworkers. That's why, it's only natural that that's the first question your boss will ask. While everyone's situation is different, try practicing these general tips:
- Point out the things that are easy to fix first. For example, you may want to resign because you feel you have not developed professionally there. If so far your performance has been tested, chances are that your boss will not object to accommodating the complaint.
- Stay honest without sacrificing professionalism. If the urge to resign arises because you're having trouble with a coworker or boss, acknowledge the reason through wise grammar. For example, you could say, "Janine and I have different communication styles, and the differences have become more pronounced in the past six months" instead of simply saying, "I don't like working under Janine's supervision."
Step 5. Understand the information that doesn't need to be shared
Chances are, you want to go back to work there because you weren't accepted by the target company. Of course, the boss doesn't need to know this fact, especially since he or she will think that your desire to return to work there isn't really sincere. Therefore, it is best to keep such information to yourself.
If your boss asks whether or not there is a job offer for you from another company, don't hesitate to answer "no" if you are not accepted elsewhere. You're not lying, are you?
Step 6. Explain the reasons behind your desire to stay
Emphasize what you like about the job, and show awareness of how attractive the profession is to you. If you submit your resignation letter impulsively, explain that you've taken the time to clear your head and realize that this is the best job you could possibly have.
For example, try saying, “Sorry, sir/madam, at that time I resigned because I was angry with Janine. Now, I have realized that these problems can be solved easily and that this company is the only place for me to grow to the fullest.”
Step 7. Show your dedication
Ideally, your boss will immediately allow you to return to work there. However, keep yourself prepared for all eventualities! Show how much dedication you have, and try to explain the benefits you can bring to the company.
For example, you might say, “I know that the company is going through critical times right now, and it is very difficult to train new people in these situations. That's why I want to stick around to help the company make the transition easier.”
Part 3 of 3: Dealing with the Next Situation
Step 1. Continue to maintain maximum performance in the office
Most likely, your boss will need some time to make a decision. In addition, your office may have a policy that requires employees to submit a resignation letter at least two weeks before the person actually resigns. During this period, do the best you can! Come to the office early and complete all your responsibilities before the requested deadline.
Offer to help other employees. In other words, show your boss that you are fully dedicated to carrying out the responsibilities that have been assigned to you
Step 2. Show your gratitude if you are finally allowed to stay there
If you're lucky, your boss may allow you to return to work there. Don't forget to show your gratitude and give the best performance afterwards, okay! If the urge to resign arises because you are having problems with a coworker or boss, do your best to repair the relationship.
Step 3. Avoid gossip
Most people in the office probably already know that you resigned but changed your mind after that. In that situation, don't pour water on a fire that's already blazing! One way to do this is to give non-gutsy answers to every question your coworkers ask. Trust me, sooner or later they will find something more exciting to talk about.
Step 4. Come out with honor, if necessary
Remember, the employer has no obligation to keep you after receiving the resignation letter. If that's the case, try not to take the rejection personally. Chances are, there is a long gap between your resignation letter and your resignation letter. In that situation, it's only natural that your boss has already offered your position to someone else. As a result, he will feel awkward to accept you back.
Don't gossip about your boss or other coworkers! Instead, always say positive things about your experience working there
Step 5. Immediately find a new job
If your financial condition is not good during unemployment, increase your chances of getting a new job by taking advantage of all available resources, such as job placement services provided by the government.
- Start the process by updating your resume and asking those closest to you for job vacancies.
- If possible, ask the willingness of the boss or co-worker in the old office to provide recommendations before you resign.
