Resigning from a job is never an easy decision, and it is even more challenging when the reason is harassment. If you are facing harassment at your workplace, it is essential to take action before it affects your mental and physical health. Writing a resignation letter due to harassment can be a difficult task, but it is necessary to protect yourself. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an effective resignation letter and provide you with some examples that you can customize to your situation.
A resignation letter due to harassment is a formal document that informs your employer about your decision to resign because of the harassment you have faced at work. It is crucial to write a clear and concise letter that explains your reasons for leaving while maintaining professionalism.
When writing a resignation letter due to harassment, it is essential to avoid being confrontational or emotional. You should focus on providing a factual and objective account of the events that led to your decision to resign. It is important to mention the dates, time, and location of the incidents, as well as the names of the individuals involved.
You can find examples of resignation letters due to harassment online, and you can customize them to fit your situation. Make sure to edit them as needed and ensure that they reflect your unique circumstances.
Examples
Verbal Abuse
Greeting:
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Body:
I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name] due to verbal abuse by [Name of Harasser]. The incidents, which took place on [Date and Time] and [Date and Time], created a hostile work environment that I cannot tolerate.
I have reported the incidents to [HR Department/Manager], but no action was taken, which is why I have decided to resign. I hope that the company takes the necessary steps to address this issue and prevent it from happening in the future.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sexual Harassment
Greeting:
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Body:
It is with regret that I am resigning from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name] due to the sexual harassment that I have faced at work. The incidents, which took place on [Date and Time] and [Date and Time], have made me feel uncomfortable and unsafe in the workplace.
I reported the incidents to [HR Department/Manager], but no action was taken, which is why I have decided to resign. I hope that the company takes the necessary steps to address this issue and prevent it from happening in the future.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Physical Assault
Greeting:
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Body:
It is with great sadness that I am resigning from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name] due to the physical assault that I experienced at work. The incident, which took place on [Date and Time], has traumatized me and made me feel unsafe in the workplace.
I reported the incident to [HR Department/Manager], but no action was taken, which is why I have decided to resign. I hope that the company takes the necessary steps to address this issue and prevent it from happening in the future.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Bullying
Greeting:
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Body:
It is with regret that I am resigning from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name] due to the bullying that I have experienced at work. The incidents, which took place on [Date and Time] and [Date and Time], have created a hostile work environment that I cannot tolerate.
I reported the incidents to [HR Department/Manager], but no action was taken, which is why I have decided to resign. I hope that the company takes the necessary steps to address this issue and prevent it from happening in the future.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Racial Discrimination
Greeting:
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Body:
I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name] due to racial discrimination by [Name of Harasser]. The incidents, which took place on [Date and Time] and [Date and Time], have made me feel unwelcome and uncomfortable in the workplace.
I reported the incidents to [HR Department/Manager], but no action was taken, which is why I have decided to resign. I hope that the company takes the necessary steps to address this issue and prevent it from happening in the future.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Age Discrimination
Greeting:
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Body:
I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name] due to age discrimination by [Name of Harasser]. The incidents, which took place on [Date and Time] and [Date and Time], have made me feel undervalued and disrespected in the workplace.
I reported the incidents to [HR Department/Manager], but no action was taken, which is why I have decided to resign. I hope that the company takes the necessary steps to address this issue and prevent it from happening in the future.
Complimentary Close:
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter Due To Harassment
A resignation letter due to harassment is a delicate matter, and it is essential to handle it with care. Here are some tips that can help you write an effective resignation letter:
- Focus on the facts and avoid being emotional or confrontational.
- Provide a clear and concise explanation of the incidents that led to your decision to resign.
- Include the dates, time, and location of the harassment incidents.
- Mention the names of the individuals involved in the harassment.
- Express your regrets about leaving the company, but make it clear that you cannot continue to work under such circumstances.
- Keep the tone of the letter professional and respectful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I report the harassment before resigning?
A: Yes, it is advisable to report the harassment to the HR department or your manager before resigning. This will give the company a chance to investigate the matter and take appropriate actions. However, if you feel that your safety is at risk, you can resign immediately and report the harassment later.
Q: Can I sue my employer for harassment?
A: Yes, you can sue your employer for harassment if they have failed to take appropriate actions to address the issue. However, it is advisable to consult with an attorney before taking legal action.
Q: Can I use a resignation letter due to harassment as evidence in a lawsuit?
A: Yes, a resignation letter due to harassment can be used as evidence in a lawsuit. It can help establish a pattern of behavior and show that you took appropriate steps to address the issue.
Q: Should I mention the harassment incidents in my future job interviews?
A: It is up to you to decide whether to mention the harassment incidents in your future job interviews. However, it is advisable to focus on the positive aspects of your previous job and avoid speaking negatively about your former employer.
Q: Can I get unemployment benefits if I resign due to harassment?
A: Yes, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits if you resign due to harassment. However, you will need to provide evidence that the harassment was severe and ongoing, and that you made reasonable efforts to address the issue with your employer.
Q: Can I request a severance package when resigning due to harassment?
A: Yes, you can request a severance package when resigning due to harassment. However, it is up to the company to decide whether to offer it, and the amount will depend on various factors such as the duration of your employment and the severity of the harassment.
Q: Can I get a reference from my former employer after resigning due to harassment?
A: It is possible to get a reference from your former employer after resigning due to harassment, but it may be challenging. It is advisable to approach your former employer diplomatically and explain your reasons for leaving the company. You can also provide references from your colleagues or clients to support your job application.
Conclusion
Resigning due to harassment is a difficult decision, but it is necessary to prioritize your mental and physical health. It is essential to write an effective resignation letter that reflects your unique circumstances and maintains your professionalism. We hope that this article has provided you with some guidance on how to write a resignation letter due to harassment and has answered some of your frequently asked questions.