Here's how to... resign from your job

There's nothing better than leaving a job for better things, whether those things are a shiny new role, a trip to an unexplored land, or just sitting at home in your pants watching Jeremy Kyle. Long hours, a demanding boss, bitchy workmates, horrific commute or boring work are just some reasons why thousands will be looking for a new job in 2014.

So say something better comes along and you want to take your chances at a happier ten hours a day for the rest of your life because retirement just won't happen for most of us. How are you supposed to go about letting your current employer know you're jumping ship?

We asked Annabel, Managing Director of Irenicon, an employment law firm, to give you guys her tips for making sure the process goes smoothly.

1. Be honest
If you're unhappy and stressed out, tell your employer and they might be able to fix the bits you're not fond of. For now...

2. Be crafty
So you've spoken to your boss, given it a few months, and nothing's changed. You know there's no progression and you want out. Keep the fact you're searching for a job quiet. No one wants to work alongside someone who's always making it known they want something else. And honestly, it could be the reason why you're not progressing, or your job is dull. What manager wants to invest in training if you're going to scarper? So keep your thoughts to yourself. Seriously. Don't ever tweet about it, never post anything on Facebook, and certainly don't tell work friends. Because sometimes, those you think have got your back actually have got a backstabbing implement/shiv.

3. Resign with grace and poise
As much as you may want to tell your old boss to shove it, don't. I can't stress that enough. You took a job with them, and (hopefully) you've been paid to do that job. Airing your dirty laundry to all and sundry could make your life difficult during your notice period, and could even get you fired. Unless you have someone higher than you giving you that all-important good reference, you're kinda screwed. So write your thoughts in a journal, or tell your cat, then let them go. Remember, it'll all be over soon anyway.

4. Have a chat. Write a letter. Then email.

Most places will demand at least a week's notice of you. Some want two, and depending on how long you've been with your company, some may even ask for three months. Send a letter, followed by an email if you're in a rush. "Try to say 'I am resigning', not 'I would like to resign.' If there are good things to say, this is a place to say them." Also, detail the start date of your notice period (usually the day after you hand in a letter) and the day you'll finish. Make a note of any remaining holiday days too, you're entitled to take them.

5. During your notice period...

Be sure to work all days. Walking out early could get you in trouble - even if the job you want is an immediate start. "If the notice you give is too short you may forfeit some benefits and some holiday pay," says Annabel. "You may even be liable for damages - for example if your boss has to hire an expensive temp to cover your role for the notice period. This is rare but it can happen." Another tip: delete personal stuff from your office computer, and save any files you may need for your portfolio in good time.

Have you ever resigned? How did you deal with the process? Let our readers know below.