Should You Ever Resign by Text? Trump's FDA Shake-Up Raises the Question
Dr. Marty Makary's resignation as FDA commissioner—delivered via text message, according to a White House official—has reignited a workplace debate: Is it ever acceptable to quit by text?
While circumstances vary, career experts generally advise against it.
The Preferred Approach
Bonnie Dilber, senior manager of talent acquisition at Zapier, recommends delivering the news in person when possible, followed by a formal resignation email to create a written record.
"How you leave a job matters," Dilber tells CNBC Make It. "A poorly handled resignation can follow you and affect future opportunities."
A professional resignation letter should express gratitude, state your final date, and offer to help with the transition. Even in private correspondence, assume anything in writing is permanent, Dilber cautions.
When Texting Might Apply
Text resignations are more common in high-turnover fields like retail or frontline work, says T. Tara Turk-Haynes, a fractional people leader at HR consultancy Equity Activations. They're far less typical in white-collar or senior roles, where formal protocols usually apply.
Notice Periods and Reputation
Most employees should provide two weeks' notice to ensure a smooth handoff, both experts agree. Senior leaders often extend this to several months or remain until a successor is hired.
"If you leave people in a lurch, they'll remember," Dilber warns—potentially influencing reference checks or informal conversations that shape your career trajectory.
Be prepared, however, for employers to accept your resignation immediately and end your tenure early, Turk-Haynes adds.
Exit Interviews and Lasting Impressions
If asked to participate in an exit interview, offer constructive, process-focused feedback while preserving relationships. Dilber advises staying "objective and fact-based," while Turk-Haynes cautions against emotional remarks that could resurface later.
The bottom line: industries are smaller than they appear. "These circles are small," Dilber says. "Your reputation and how you leave will follow you."