Resignation Strategies + Maintaining Bridges

Resigning from an agriculture job can feel both exciting and challenging. For professionals in the agri-food and bioproduct industries, the process requires balance: embracing the opportunity of a new role while leaving your current position with professionalism and respect. At Litherland & Co., we specialize in agriculture talent and executive search management, guiding candidates through every stage of transition.

Secure Your Next Step First

Before submitting your resignation, confirm your next role, ideally secured through a trusted agribusiness recruiting firm or agriculture executive search partner. When you are ready, provide at least two weeks’ notice. This standard practice in Canadian agriculture allows your employer to prepare for the transition while preserving goodwill within your network.

Resignation Done Right

Professional resignation involves three key steps:

• Drafting a concise, respectful resignation letter.

• Discussing your transition with any executive search contact who supported your placement.

• Presenting your resignation directly to your supervisor.

  
  

Until your resignation is official, keep news of your new role confidential. The agriculture community is close-knit, and discretion helps safeguard your professional reputation.

Protecting Bridges for the Future

Positive relationships with former colleagues and supervisors can prove invaluable. These connections often become trusted references or open doors to future opportunities. As many executive search consultants advise, allow employers to extend a reference voluntarily rather than requesting one immediately. Professionals who resign on good terms are frequently recommended with enthusiasm.

Networking After Resignation

One of the most common missteps in agriculture recruiting is over-communicating with past employers. Healthy networking is about quality, not quantity. Stay in touch occasionally and meaningfully, periodic check-ins go further than frequent contact. This thoughtful approach ensures your connections remain strong, authentic, and useful when you need them.

Building Long-Term Career Resilience

In the agri-food and bioproduct sectors, connections drive opportunity. By resigning with professionalism and maintaining respect for colleagues, you strengthen your reputation and keep future doors open. These networks, combined with support from agribusiness recruiting firms and executive search management partners — position you to succeed in your next chapter and beyond.