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More than 4.1 million Americans will turn 65 this year, and many will make the decision to retire. Notifying your employer of your retirement is a common courtesy that is slightly different than resigning or quitting a job. If you’re preparing your retirement letter to your employer, there is some etiquette you should know about. Here are things you shouldn’t include in your letter.
1. Negative Comments
In your retirement letter to your employer, you should keep negative comments about the company, your boss, or your time at the company. Instead, focus on gratitude and keep your tone professional. You don’t want to burn any bridges on your way out the door.
2. Legal Threats
Any legal threats or disputes should be settled in a separate matter. A retirement letter to your employer is more of a courtesy and formality, not a place to settle grievances. If you have ongoing litigation with your company, make sure to consult your lawyer before sending your letter.
3. Complaints
Saying things like, “I can’t wait to never see this place again” won’t win you any favor. The purpose of a retirement letter to your employer is to show that you are willing to aid the transition of your position and provide your employer with amble notification. Complaints or unprofessional comments shouldn’t be included.
4. Vague Details
Make sure that you are clear with your retirement date so that your employer can prepare for your departure. Saying things like, “It is my intention to retire in the near future” won’t cut it. If you aren’t sure of the exact date that you want to retire, hold off on sending a retirement letter until you have concrete plans. Usually, three to six month’s notice is generous and recommended by some experts. You may say that you plan to retire on a certain date, but are available for 4 more weeks to help train your replacement.
5. Overly Personal Details
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Make sure that you keep your letter professional. An overly emotional letter isn’t necessary. You can individually thank your boss or coworkers with a card that is separate from your retirement letter. Remember, this letter most likely will be sent to HR, so personal details should be omitted.
6. Closing The Door
If you plan on coming back to your company in any capacity, for example as a consultant, you can write your intentions in your retirement letter. Make sure that you leave on a good note, and aid with finding a replacement for your role if you want to still be involved at your company.
7. Poorly Formatted Letter
What you say in a retirement letter to your employer is important, but also how you format it is equally as important. For example, you’ll want to make sure that you date your letter. This can be important for receiving retirement benefits which may hinge not just on your retirement date, but also when you give notice.
8. Improper Delivery
Does your HR department have protocols as to how notice should be given? Make sure to adhere to all policies set forth by your company. If there are no specific guidelines, you may want to submit your letter of retirement to your employer electronically. This will provide an electronic record of your notice.
Are you planning on retiring? How do you plan on notifying your employer?
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