Sample resignation letter for hospitality industry

Sample resignation letter for the hospitality industry

When you resign from your current job in the hospitality industry or at a hotel, you want to do so in a professional and respectful manner. A good resignation letter is essential for this. It ensures that your departure is clearly and officially documented and leaves a positive impression on your employer.

On this page, you will find:

  • An explanation of what should be included in a resignation letter

  • Tips on how to write your resignation letter correctly and professionally

  • A sample resignation letter you can use

  • Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about resigning in the hospitality industry

This way, you can be sure you won’t forget anything and will be well-prepared to submit your resignation.

Why is a resignation letter important?

A resignation letter is more than a formality. It is the official document in which you state that you want to end your employment contract. This is important not only for you but also for your employer.

With a resignation letter, you:

  • Officially confirm that you are resigning

  • Avoid misunderstandings about your last working day or notice period

  • Show that you are professional and thorough

  • Build a good reputation in the hospitality industry, where networking is often important

In hospitality, it can be especially important to leave on good terms because the industry is closely connected and people often run into each other again in future jobs or at other hotels or restaurants.

What should be included in a resignation letter?

A resignation letter doesn’t have to be long, but there are a few key elements that should always be included. Here’s an overview:

Your personal details
Place these at the top of your letter:

  • Name

  • Address

  • Postal code and city

  • Phone number

  • Email address

Date
The date you are writing the letter.

Employer details

  • Name of your employer or manager

  • Position

  • Company name

  • Company address

Clear statement that you are resigning
This is the most important part. Clearly state that you are resigning and include your last working day.
Example:
"With this letter, I would like to formally submit my resignation as Assistant Manager at Hotel X, effective November 30, 2025."

Brief reason for leaving (optional)
This is not required, but it can be polite to briefly explain why you are leaving. Keep it positive and professional, even if you’ve had less positive experiences.
Example:
"After careful consideration, I have decided to pursue a new opportunity that better aligns with my career goals."

Thank your employer for the collaboration
Expressing gratitude shows respect for your employer and colleagues.
Example:
"I would like to thank you for the opportunities and the pleasant collaboration during my time at Hotel X."

Offer to assist with the transition
Let your employer know that you are willing to hand over your duties properly and, if needed, train a successor.

Professional closing
Always end with a polite closing such as:
Kind regards,
[Your name]

Tips for writing your resignation letter

Writing a resignation letter can feel daunting. These tips will help you create a letter that is both professional and clear:

  • Keep it brief and to the point: one page is enough.

  • Use clear, active language: avoid long, complicated sentences.

  • Stay positive: even if you’ve had negative experiences.

  • Check your notice period to avoid conflicts about your last working day.

  • Make the letter personal: use our sample, but write the content in your own words.

  • Keep a copy: both digital and printed.

  • Ask someone to review it: a friend, family member, or colleague can check if your letter is clear and professional.

Sample resignation letter for the hospitality industry

Use the sample below as a guide for your own letter. Adjust the content to fit your situation.

Subject: Resignation Letter

Dear [Name of employer or manager],

With this letter, I would like to formally submit my resignation as [your job title] at [name of hospitality business], effective [date of last working day, taking into account the notice period].

I would like to thank you for the opportunities and experiences I have gained during my time at [name of hospitality business]. My time here has been educational and valuable, and I have enjoyed working with my colleagues and supervisors.

The decision to leave has not been easy. After careful consideration, I have chosen to take the next step in my career, which better fits my personal and professional goals.

I will complete my tasks properly and am willing to transfer my duties and train a successor to ensure a smooth transition.

Kind regards,
[Name]
[Signature, if on paper]

How to send your resignation letter

It’s important to make sure your employer receives your letter. Here are a few options:

Send by registered mail
This is the most formal method. You will receive proof that your letter was sent and delivered.

Deliver in person
Make an appointment with your manager to hand over your letter personally. Ask for confirmation in writing or by email.

Send by email
Only if your employer accepts this. Always request a clear confirmation of receipt.

Additional tips when resigning

Vacation days:
Check how many vacation days you have left and discuss whether you can take them or have them paid out.

Request a reference letter:
A reference letter can be useful for future job applications.

Prepare a handover:
Write down important information about your tasks and projects so your successor can get started smoothly.

Stay professional until the end:
The way you spend your final weeks will influence the impression you leave behind.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about resignation letters

1. Do I always have to write a resignation letter?
Yes, a resignation letter is required to officially record your departure. A verbal resignation is not enough.

2. How far in advance do I need to submit my resignation?
Usually, the notice period is one month, but this can vary by contract or collective agreement. Always check your employment contract.

3. What if my employer refuses to accept my letter?
Send the letter by registered mail and keep the receipt. This serves as proof that you officially resigned.

4. Can I send my resignation letter by email?
Yes, but only if your employer agrees. Always request confirmation.

5. What happens to my vacation days?
Unused vacation days can often be taken or paid out. Discuss this with your employer in advance.

6. Do I have to explain my reason for leaving?
No, this is not required. A short, positive explanation can be polite, though.

7. How do I write a resignation letter without sounding negative?
Focus on the future and thank your employer for the opportunities you’ve had. Avoid negative remarks.

Summary

A resignation letter is an important step in leaving your hospitality job in a professional manner.

Key points:

  • Always include your details, position, last working day, and a clear statement of resignation.

  • Keep the letter short, professional, and positive.

  • Make sure you have proof that your letter was received.

  • Request a reference letter and manage your vacation days.

With our sample resignation letter and the tips on this page, you can easily create a correct letter and continue your hospitality career on a positive note.