How to Resign? (WFH, 6 months On the Desk)

I am a first year analyst (started in July) and plan on resigning in January. I have had a great experience with my bank / group, but an opportunity came my way that I can't turn down. I am aware that I will be forced to pay back my signing bonus; this is not an issue. 

What is the best way to resign?  What do I say to schedule the conversation? Honestly pretty nervous given that I've only been on the desk for ~4 months. 

My plan was to ask for time to speak (not sharing that I will be resigning), having the conversation, and formally following up with a resignation letter. Would love any feedback on how to do this given my bank's WFH plans for the next ~6 weeks and me bailing on the group so early into my tenure there. 

21 Comments
 

I’ll add that you shouldn’t feel guilty. This is how the industry works. You owe nothing to your bank besides two weeks notice (they’ll send you packing right after you tell them anyway). There might be some resentment, but take it on the chin. After all, you found a better opportunity and are doing the best thing for yourself. 

 
Most Helpful

It’s matter of fact and you be appreciative. Give 2 weeks notice. 
 

Set up a meeting with your staffer/ manager, mentor, MD’s of your teams in that order. Subject of the meeting can be chat with ____

“Wanted to let you know I’m giving my two weeks notice today. I had an opportunity come up that is much more aligned with my personal and professional interests. I understand this isn’t ideal especially given I’m so short into this stint, but after talking with mentors and friends and family, I think this is a difficult, but ultimately correct decision. I sincerely appreciate my time at the firm and have learned a ton and I’m sorry for the inconvenience this causes.” For the MD, ask how they would like you to tell the team to cause the least amount of damage possible. 
 

Some people will get mad, but most reasonable people will understand. Also, the industry loses people constantly, so you will be forgotten by the end of the week.

 

Yep, this is the way. Although if you're at a BB/larger firm of any kind, I wouldn't bother telling MDs unless you are super close with one or two... to be honest, MDs rarely even know any of the first years' names at my firm, and the WFH analysts, forget about it. Just tell your staffer (#1), any associates/VPs you were close with (#2), and then your analyst class (#3)

Make sure you give 2 weeks notice, and your resignation email clearly states your last day.

 

If your year end bonus payout date is set in stone, set a meeting with HR for a couple days after bonus hits. Just say you've enjoyed the your time working there but will have to part ways to progress with your career.Thank your team and HR, follow up with an email and the following day hand in your resignation letter.

Most important part: Give them 2 weeks in advance before you actually resign, and have a plan in place to hand off your responsibilities to another analyst.

 

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