How To Write A Two Weeks’ Notice Letter (With Examples) |
Are you dreaming about your last day on the job? Wondering if a two weeks notice is actually necessary? Don’t know what a two-week notice is and how to write one? There is a seemingly never-ending list of dos and don’ts to pay attention to in the great world of employment. This is especially true when it comes to quitting your current position.
If you’re planning for your last day of work, it’s essential to write a two-week notice to leave on good terms. Leaving on good terms will be beneficial for your work future, and it also leaves the door open if you ever plan to return. But how do you write one?
Keep reading to discover what a two-week notice is, why it’s essential before leaving your current position, and how to write one correctly.
Table of Contents
What Is A Two Weeks’ Notice?
A two-week notice is essentially a courtesy letter or email informing your current employer of your upcoming departure. This is a standard practice that should be completed before leaving your current job. During these two weeks, you will be able to complete your everyday tasks and obligations so your employer isn’t scrambling. It also gives them enough time to conduct interviews to fill the upcoming open position.
Some companies may also want to perform a face-to-face exit interview. You can relay crucial information to the company during this time, such as things you did and did not like. Here, you will be able to express gratitude to your former employer (if applicable), and they may be able to provide you with items such as a letter of recommendation. The company may consider a counteroffer to encourage you to stay in some cases.
Before you accept a new job offer and write your letter of resignation, it’s important to double-check with your employment contract. In almost every case, all you need to do to leave your position gracefully and professionally is give two weeks’ notice. However, your employment contract may demand more than two weeks alongside other guidelines before your registration.
Is A Two Weeks’ Notice Necessary?
Unless you have signed a legally binding contract with your employer stating you must give a two weeks’ notice (or longer, in some cases), a two weeks’ notice is not technically necessary. There is no law on any state or federal level that requires a two weeks’ notice.
However, that doesn’t mean you should nix your two-week notice period altogether. A two weeks’ notice is a sign of respect for your employer and allows for a smooth transition for all. This can also help you in your future careers as you appear more professional to your potential new employer.
In some cases, a two weeks’ notice isn’t possible. For example, a sudden urgency to move to a new location, health reasons, or death in the family can cause an abrupt ending to a job. As long as there are no legalities behind it, it’s okay to quit on the same day. Nonetheless, giving as much notice as possible (even if not the whole two weeks) is highly recommended.
How To Write A Two Weeks’ Notice Letter
Writing a two-week notice doesn’t need to be considerably challenging or complicated. Simply stating a few simple facts — such as your name, date, and why you’re leaving is enough. Then, you can email or mail the human resources department and finish off your last two weeks until the final day comes.
Here are a few essential tips to creating a professional two weeks’ notice:
#1. State The Date With Contact Information
The first and most crucial part of your letter format is to include the date. If there is no date, the employer can easily state more or fewer days regarding your final two weeks. Include necessary contact information, including your name, email, and phone number, if any concerns or questions.
#2. State Your Resignation
The next step is simple. State that you are resigning from your job. For example, you could say that you are accepting a new role in another company and plan to resign from your current position on a specific date (two weeks from the date you are writing your notice).
#3. Keep It Brief
Human resources do not need to know every aspect of your transition plan. It’s best to keep things short and to the point. Avoid unnecessary fluff and excessive information that is not crucial to your resignation.
#4. Include A Thankful Note
If you’re leaving on good terms, it’s a good idea to write a positive note to your current employer. This is a highly professional way to end your employment and reduces the chances of any hard feelings along the way.
#5. Offer To Help
You’re leaving for a specific purpose, good or bad. And while this is a new and significant step for your work life, it doesn’t mean it’s not going to be a challenge for everyone involved — especially the company you’re leaving. Offering to lend a helping hand is one easy way to make the transition smoother. Suggest training the new hire, finishing up some open projects, or finding someone to take over your current position.
#6. Send The Resignation Letter To The Right People
Whether you give two weeks’ notice through the mail or email, the message must get to the right individuals. A formal resignation letter should be hand-delivered to higher-ups such as mentors, bosses, and the human resources department. Emails should be sent to the human resources department with other vital individuals “CC-ed” so they don’t miss the notice.
Two Weeks Notice Letter Examples
Now you know some of the most essential tips for success when you give two weeks’ notice—still struggling? A template can be a great way to put together a two-week notice resignation letter without the hassle. Below are three excellent resignation letter template options to choose from.
Sample #1:
[Contact Information]
[Date]
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
Today, I am writing to announce my resignation from [company name and current position] effective two weeks from [today’s date].
This was a challenging decision to make. The past [enter number of years] have been rewarding. I have thoroughly enjoyed working for you and [state favorite parts of the job].
I am so incredibly thankful for the different opportunities you have provided me. Please don’t hesitate to ask if there is any way I can help at all during this transition period. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you and the rest of the team all the best.
Sincerely,
Your Name (Signed and Printed)
Sample #2:
[Contact Information]
[Date]
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
This letter is to state that I am resigning from [current position] at [company name], effective two weeks from [today’s date].
It has been more than a pleasure working at [company name]. I am genuinely grateful for the opportunities given to me. My last working day will be [insert date].
I will continue to work at the highest quality level until my final day of employment. If there is anything I can do to facilitate a smooth transition, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Your Name [Signed and Printed]
Sample #3:
[Contact Information]
[Date]
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
I am writing to inform you of my resignation from [current job]. My last day of employment will be [two weeks from today’s date].
A job opportunity has been offered to me, and it is much more suited to my skill set. I believe it is in my best interest to take on the challenge and pursue this new opportunity.
I sincerely appreciate the level of professionalism you have shown me throughout the years. I would also like to thank you for the opportunities and investments you’ve presented in my career.
If there is any way I can assist in finding a replacement for my position, or if you have any other questions, comments, or concerns, do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Your Name [Signed and Printed]
Resignation Email Examples
A written two-week notice template isn’t much different than one written through email, although there are subtle changes to include. Here are a few samples to help you get started.
Sample #1:
Subject Line: Resignation — [First and Last Name]
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,
Please accept this as my formal resignation notice from [company name]. My last day will be on [enter date] two weeks from today.
It has indeed been a pleasure working with you and the rest of the team at [company name]. I appreciate all of your support during my employment here. I will take all of the valuable experiences from the past [enter number of years] into my future.
Please let me know if there is any way I can help during this transition period. I wish you all the best.
Best regards,
First and Last Name
Sample #2:
Subject Line: First and Last Name — Notice of Resignation
Dear [Manager’s Name],
As we discussed earlier, I am writing a formal email to state my resignation from [current job] at [comany name] due to [state specific reason]. My last day will be [provide date two weeks from today’s date].
Please let me know if I can do anything to help during this transition. I will be more than happy to offer any support or assistance during my final two weeks with the company.
I have copied in human resources and will liaise with them if necessary.
Thank you,
First and Last Name
Sample #3:
Subject Line: Resignation Letter — First Name and Last Name — Today’s Date
Hello [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this email as my formal resignation from [current position] at [company name]. My last working day will be two weeks from today, [enter date].
I am available to help with the transition over the next two weeks, and I am more than willing to help train my replacement and bring them up to speed on any pending tasks.
It has been a sincere pleasure working with you. I am truly grateful for all the support you’ve given me over the past [enter number of years]. I have gained so much valuable experience during my time here, and I can’t thank you enough for this opportunity.
Thank you,
First and Last Name
The Bottom Line
Resigning from your job is never a simple task, especially when writing the two-week notice letter. However, now you know the best tips and tricks for success and should be able to come up with a professional letter or email that you and your current employer are satisfied with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you handwrite a two weeks notice?
There is no rule saying you can’t handwrite a two weeks notice. However, it is generally considered more professional to type and hand-deliver a letter of resignation. If you do not have a printer, email is the second-best option.
What is the best way to write a two weeks notice?
The best way to write a two weeks notice letter is to type your contact information, state when and why you’re leaving, and offer any help possible with a positive note at the end. You should keep the resignation letter as quick and to the point as possible and ensure it gets into the right hands.
How long does a two-week notice need to be?
Your two weeks’ notice is a notice, not an essay. It does not need to be long. Half a page or less is perfectly acceptable. As long as the critical information is described in the letter or email, it works for a two weeks’ notice.
What is the proper format for a two weeks notice letter?
The proper format for a two weeks’ notice includes:
- Contact Information
- Greeting
- Date and Reason for Leaving
- Express Gratitude and Thankfulness for the Position
- Offer Assistance During the Transition
- Salutations
If you plan to email your resignation letter, the format is generally the same. The most significant difference is that you will need to add a “subject” in the “subject line” that states the purpose of your email.
