You've made it through the grueling interview process, the overnight package has arrived in your mailbox and your offer letter is finally in hand. The only thing left to do is give notice at your present company. Oh, the moment you've dreamed about is finally here. But before you giddily stumble into your manager's office to utter the words "I quit", let us help you turn this daunting task into a golden opportunity.

Discuss your resignation plan with a friend.
Ask a friend to do a sanity check on your resignation statement. A loyal and objective third party can help you de-spear your parting words and blow off a little steam before you head into the boss's office.

Keep your plans under wraps with co-workers.
It's hard, but keep quiet about your resignation plans until after you've made it official with your manager. Your reputation (and fantasy resignation speech) could be foiled by a gabby co-worker who gets to your boss before you do. It's unprofessional, and the direct implication is that you've been speaking negatively about the company to others in the office. Plus, no one likes to be the last to know-- especially someone who you'll need to use as a future reference.

Anticipate the inevitable three questions: why, where and when?

Why? Always take the high road! Despite how you may feel, this is not the time to turn garbage-mouth on the company and peers that you are leaving behind. Keep your answer brief and professional. It's important to leave behind an impeccable record, because it's a small world and you never know whether you'll work with -- or for -- some of the same people again. Remember, your first impression is just as important as your last.

Where? Translation: What does that company have that we don't? Fill your manager in on the new opportunity, but don't gloat over your good fortune. And never compare the two jobs. The goal is to protect your reputation and to leave people feeling good about your tenure.

When? It's customary to give two weeks notice, however, if you are deeply entrenched in a project that needs you to see it through (and you can survive the stay without chewing your leg off), discuss a later start date with your new employer. If they are able to hold off three or even four weeks, both your current and future employer will see you as a true team player.

Plan your reply if you are made a counter-offer.
"No way in hell," is probably not the best response here, although it would feel great. Politely thank him or her for seeing you as such a valuable employee and say "no thank you". Counter offers are common these days, and are a result of the fact that talented employees (especially of the Internet ilk) are very hard to replace. The first question that should come to your mind when you get a counter offer is "why are they giving me this now?" By tendering a counter offer, your employer is making a last ditch effort to convince you that you really are valued. Face it; Changing jobs is difficult and someone is going to be unhappy. Your integrity and reputation depends upon keeping your word.

Request an exit interview.
If your company does not require this step, request to hold an exit interview a few days before your departure (if you are harboring any ill will, it should be almost gone by this point). This is your opportunity to (confidentially) cite improvements, inconsistencies and management issues. Create talking points for specific and targeted suggestions to help the next employee avoid such conflicts.

Prepare information for your manager/successor.
If there is a sure-fire way to make a good last impression with the boss, this is it. Typically, our mangers and co-workers have only a basic idea of our project/client status. So that they don't feel like you've left them holding the bag, create and review a status report document with your manager prior to your departure. Include information vital to your job, for example:

1. Project Status Report (including goals) and contacts list
2. A Project Summary document containing any pertinent history
3. A timeline of next steps and responsibilities
4. New contacts for re-assigned work

It may take a few extra hours, but your managers will be singing your praises long after you're gone.

Good luck!