There is probably enough literature out there that tells you how to resign with dignity and what you should do. So this is going to be an article on what not to do when you resign.

1. Never write your resignation letter in haste
Yes we know. That promotion was supposed to be yours. We also know how badly you wanted to be sent to Singapore for that training instead of that newbie whose father is one of the directors on board. And that award? It had your name written on it. Your reasons maybe plenty and all justified, but when your neurons are sending impulses to spit venom, it’s better to be kickboxing or crying into your pillow than writing that letter. Chances are your resignation letter will come across as incoherent ramblings of an emotional fool and that is not really much of an impression to be leaving before you quit.

2. Don’t threaten
Never use your resignation as a threat to have your way. “If you don’t give me that corner office, I’ll quit” will probably work. But your organization will never trust you enough to hold on to that job. It betrays your priorities and loyalty towards the organization. If they don’t value you enough to give it to you without threatening, then maybe it isn’t worth fighting for.

3. Don’t consider bargaining
Your current employer may try to match the offer of your place of employment or try to bargain you into staying. But if you give in that would be perceived as a sign of vulnerability that could be exploited in the future. When they find someone with your capabilities and experience for the same salary you were paid earlier, they’ll drop you like a hot potato and you won’t know what hit you.

4. Don’t let your honesty be too brutal
A resignation letter may seem to be the easiest way to vent your frustration. While stating the reason for your resignation, one is overcome by temptation to list a 100 reasons why working there sucked. Well, you could do that OR just be critical without being petty. Keep your criticism constructive, and don’t forget to thank them for employing you. No matter how terrible your experience may have been, it did teach you something and that’s something to be always grateful for.

5. Never burn your bridges
Murphy’s law is probably the most clichéd and oft repeated adage in the world. But you can’t deny it will sneak upon you when you aren’t watching. Always leave on a pleasant note, with a warm hand shake. Should the tides turn against you, you can always consider swallowing your pride and burning bile and return to the organization without short selling yourself. If not for networking, at least karma is a very good reason to not stomp your feet, throw a fit and slam the door shut on your way out.