If you’re moving on from your current job, it can be nerve-wracking to write and send in your two weeks’ notice. However, a well-written two-week notice can help you tie up any loose ends and offer a chance to leave your current job on a positive note.
If you need to write a resignation email, here are a few tips, as well as a two-week notice letter template to set you on the right track. By sampling these tips and the template, you can ensure that you leave on good terms with your employer and maintain positive relationships going forward.
What is a Two Week’s Notice?
Sent when you decide to leave a job, a two-week notice is a formal letter announcing your intention to resign from your job. The two-week notice is a courtesy that gives your employer time to adjust to your resignation and find a suitable replacement. It also gives you time to tie up any loose ends at work and to say goodbye to colleagues.
In some cases, employers will ask for more than two weeks’ notice – so it’s always best to check your employee handbook beforehand.
Why Should We Send a Two-Week Notice
It has become common for employers to expect two-week notices. In fact, it may be legally required in your employment contract to provide notice before you resign. By giving your employer notice before you leave, they will have enough time to transition and find a replacement for you.
Additionally, Even though you’re leaving your company, you should still try to stay connected to the important people in your career. By writing a simple two-week notice, you are showing respect and courtesy to your employer and making a great last impression before moving on.
How to Give a Two-Week Notice
1. Prepare For A Conversation
Before writing your two-week notice, know that it’s much preferable to tell your boss in person before providing your employer with a formal letter of resignation. As a sign of respect and appreciation, sit down with your boss and explain that you will be resigning. Let them know when your last day will be, and express gratitude for the opportunity to work there.
Prepare for your one-on-one as you would for two-week notice. Have answers to common questions we discuss below and be sure to maintain a positive attitude towards your boss.
2. Keep it concise.
There is no need to go into detail. Thank your employer for the opportunity to work with them and convey that you will be leaving the company. Explicitly state the date when you will leave the company. This gives your boss a clear sense of your timeline and establishes a paper trail.
Despite how you may feel about the workplace you are leaving, stifle urges to overshare your reasons or your feelings and all the rest. Even if you’re leaving because you’re unhappy with your current situation, there’s no need to burn any bridges.
3. Offer to Help With Transition.
If you want to maintain a relationship with your employer before leaving, it’s a good idea to offer to be extra helpful in your final two weeks. For example, offering to help train your replacement or shoring up unfinished projects can be a good way of tying up loose ends before your departure.
Make sure your employer has all the information they need. This includes your contact information, as well as any important deadlines or projects that you’re working on. It’s also a good idea to give them a heads up if you’re going to be out of town for an extended period of time after your departure.
This is a generous gesture, and it will show that you’re still committed to doing a good job, even as you’re leaving.
4. Ask HR questions.
If you have made the decision to leave a company, HR will be an important resource for your departure. In addition to your superiors, you should CC HR on your two-week notice email. Consider setting aside some time to schedule a meeting with HR to discuss your departure. A proper exit interview will help you understand what to expect from your final two weeks.
This is your chance to ask any questions about benefits, and very importantly your final paycheck. You should include where to send your last paycheck, and perhaps a forwarding email address for future contact.
5. Check it twice.
There’s absolutely no shame in thoroughly proofing your email multiple times. Double check everything—spelling, dates, names, grammar. Make your two-week notice an unimpeachable, classy exit.
A Two-Week Notice Sample Letter Template
Still confused? Here is a template you can use as a guide:
Subject: Two Weeks Notice
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
This letter is to formally give notice that I will be resigning from my position as [Your job] at [Company], effective in two weeks. My last day of work will be [Date two weeks from when you send].
I have accepted a position with another company that will further my growth and career development, but I remain grateful to everyone at [Company]. I have learned so much and gained such great experience being part of your team and I appreciate the time and attention you have given me during my time here.
During the next two weeks, I am more than willing to help make the transition as smooth as possible. Please let me know how best I can help, whether that be helping to recruit my replacement, or assisting in their training.
Again, it has been a pleasure working with you. I wish you, and everyone at [Company] continued success in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Your Name
name@personalemail.com
Cell Number
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