Changed your mind about leaving your job? Don’t panic…
Your reasons for resigning may have seemed crystal clear when you handed in your resignation letter. But now, for whatever reason, things have changed and you’re having second thoughts. The thought of asking your boss to stay can be daunting, especially if you’re worried it’s too late.
If you’re wondering how to backtrack gracefully, you’re in the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about how to withdraw a resignation, complete with a handy resignation retraction letter template to get you started:
What does it mean to retract a resignation?
To retract, rescind, or withdraw a resignation means you’re formally asking your employer to cancel your notice to leave so you can continue in your role.
It’s an unusual situation, but not unheard of. People’s circumstances can sometimes change unexpectedly. The key is to handle it professionally, whether you decide to have a conversation first or go straight to sending an email to withdraw your resignation.
Common reasons for withdrawing a resignation
So, why might you find yourself in this position? Revoking a resignation isn’t a decision made lightly, but here are a few common scenarios where it makes sense:
- A new job offer you accepted has been withdrawn.
- Your personal circumstances have changed (e.g., a planned relocation is no longer happening).
- You’ve received a compelling counter offer from your current employer that you want to accept.
- You’ve discovered some not-so-great things about the new company that don’t align with your values.
- You’ve simply had a change of heart and realised the grass isn’t always greener.
Eight signs an employer is not the one
How to retract your resignation
Ready to make your move? Here’s a step-by-step guide to revoking your resignation:
1. Act fast
As soon as you’ve made your decision, get in touch with your manager. The sooner you let them know, the better. Your employer might have already started the recruitment process to find your replacement, so time is of the essence. A quick conversation or a prompt email can make all the difference and shows you respect their time and effort.
How to: Communicate effectively at work
2. Check your company policy
Before you do anything, dig out your employee handbook or check your contract. Some companies have specific procedures for situations like this. Knowing your company’s official stance will help you understand your rights and manage your expectations from the get-go.
Employee rights and responsibilities
3. Have an honest conversation
Your boss will want to know why you’ve changed your mind, so be prepared to explain your reasons clearly and honestly. You don’t need to share every personal detail, but providing some context will help them understand your situation. If a new job offer fell through, frame it tactfully to reassure them that you’re committed to staying for the long run, not just until the next best thing comes along.
4. Write a formal resignation retraction letter
After speaking with your manager, it’s a good idea to follow up with a formal letter or email. This creates a written record of your request. Keep it professional, concise, and polite. State your intention to withdraw your resignation clearly, briefly explain your reasons, and express your continued commitment to the company.
5. Be prepared to prove your value
Let’s face it, you were ready to leave just a short while ago, so your employer might be a bit hesitant. Be ready to remind them why you’re a valuable asset. Think about your key achievements and contributions. Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help you structure your points and effectively showcase the value you bring to the team.
6. Stay positive and professional
Throughout the process, maintain a positive attitude. Apologise for any inconvenience but focus on your enthusiasm for continuing your work. Reiterate your commitment to the company’s goals and your team. And no matter the outcome, thank your employer for their time and consideration. You never know when you might need a reference or cross paths again in the future.
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How to write a resignation retraction letter
A resignation retraction letter should be straightforward and professional. Here’s what it should include:
- The date of your letter.
- Your name and job title.
- The name of the recipient (your manager or HR).
- A clear opening statement requesting to rescind your resignation.
- A brief, honest reason for your change of heart.
- A reminder of the value you bring to the company.
- A positive closing statement.
Resignation retraction letter example
Struggling to find the right words? Use this template as a starting point for your own letter.
25th November 2025
Your Name
Your Job TitleDear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this letter as a formal request to retract my resignation, which I submitted on [Date of resignation]. After careful consideration, I would like to withdraw my notice and continue in my role as [Your Job Title].
I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience my initial decision may have caused. My reasons for resigning were based on [briefly state original reason, e.g., a planned relocation], but my circumstances have since changed, and I am now in a position to continue my work here.
I am very proud of what I have achieved at [Company Name], particularly [mention a key achievement, e.g., leading the successful launch of the X project]. I am confident that my skills in [mention 1-2 key skills, e.g., project management and client relations] will continue to benefit the team.
I remain fully committed to the company and am excited about contributing to our future successes. Thank you for considering my request. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this with you further.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
What comes next?
It’s important to remember that once you’ve handed in your notice and your employer has accepted it, they are not legally obligated to accept your retraction.
They may have already offered the role to someone else or decided to restructure the team.
Be prepared for any outcome and have a plan in place. If they agree, that’s great news – but if not, accept their decision gracefully and focus on your next steps.
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions? Here are a few common ones we get asked.
Can I withdraw my resignation verbally?
Yes, you can start with a verbal conversation with your manager. However, it’s always best to follow up with a written request, like an email or a formal letter, to ensure there’s a clear record of your request to withdraw your resignation.
What if my boss says no?
Your employer is not legally required to accept your retraction. If they say no, it’s important to accept their decision professionally. Thank them for considering your request and focus on leaving on good terms. Use your remaining notice period to complete your work and ensure a smooth handover.
Will retracting my resignation affect my relationship with my boss?
It can. Your manager might question your loyalty or commitment. That’s why it’s crucial to be honest about your reasons for staying and to proactively demonstrate your value and dedication to the company if your retraction is accepted. Rebuilding trust takes time and consistent effort.
Is it better to send an email or a letter to withdraw a resignation?
An email to withdraw your resignation is generally faster and more common in modern workplaces. It allows for a quick response and creates a digital paper trail. A formal letter can also work, but an email is usually the most efficient method.
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