How to write a two weeks’ notice: 9 examples + tips
Quitting your current job is a daunting endeavor and can be difficult to navigate. But once you’ve decided to move on to a new chapter, it’s advised to write a two weeks’ notice to give your employer and yourself time to close out the position. If you’re wondering how to write a two weeks’ notice, you’ve come to the right place: Making the next big step in your career just got easier.
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A two weeks’ notice letter notifies your employer that you are resigning from your current position and also lets them know when your last day will be. It gives your employer ample time to ease their transition and shows your professionalism as well.
Putting in this notice can help you leave your current employer on good terms and set you up for success in the future. If you’re ready to move on to the next opportunity in your career, keep reading to finalize this momentous step in your path.
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Employers prefer a straightforward and professional two weeks’ notice letter that outlines when your last day is as well as a brief reason for your resignation. In order to leave your current employer on good terms, it’s a good idea to thank them for your time there and offer support until your last day. For a play-by-play of what your two weeks’ notice should include, read below.
1. Include a greeting
Addressing your supervisor directly is customary when it comes to a two weeks’ notice, since they are the ones who will be most affected by your resignation.
Ex: Dear [Manager name],
2. Briefly explain why you’re resigning
Whether you’ve accepted a new job offer or are looking to spend some time away from the workforce altogether, it’s a good idea to provide some sort of reason without giving away too much detail.
Ex: “I recently received a job offer from a startup tech company and I have decided to move forward with this offer.”
3. Specify your last day
Arguably the most important part of a two weeks’ notice is the specification of your final day at the job. This allows your employer time to notify Human Resources and allocate financial assets such as retirement benefits.
Ex: “My last day at [company] will be Friday, August 1.”
4. Show gratitude to your employer
Earning a future recommendation from a previous employer for a new opportunity usually involves a relationship that shows mutual respect. Expressing your appreciation for the opportunity is an important step in your letter.
Ex: “I greatly appreciate the time and effort your team has invested in helping me grow my skills as a software engineer.”
5. Offer some help
Transitioning you out of your role can be made easier for your employer by offering help or support during your final days.
Ex: “If there is anything I can do to ease this transition, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”
6. Proofread before sending
This goes without saying, but proofreading your letter before sending it to your supervisor shows that you made a tactful decision to resign and you have excellent written communication skills if they refer you to a position in the future.
If you have writer’s block when it comes to starting your letter, we’ve created an example two weeks’ notice template for you to follow.
[Date]
[Supervisor or Manager name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager name],
This letter serves as two weeks’ notice of my resignation from [company name]. My final day as a [job position] will be [last day of work].
This decision has not been easy as I [reason for resignation].
It has been a pleasure to work with [company name] and I appreciate the time and effort my team has given me in this role in order to improve my skills and experience. This position has allowed me to develop skills that I am positive will translate into my next role.
I will continue to provide support to [company name] and my colleagues until my final day. If there is anything else I can do to make sure this transition goes smoothly, please do not hesitate to let me know.
Sincerely,
[Your signature]
[Printed name]
[Contact information]
Your direct supervisor should be the first person to know about your resignation, but it's also a good idea to send your notice to the Human Resources department as well.
Unless your company has specifications for resigning, it's advised to send your two weeks’ notice letter 14 days before your final day at the job at the very latest. The earlier, the better!
Leaving your current employer on good terms is crucial when it comes to earning a future recommendation, keeping them in your network, and fostering relationships beyond work. The following tips can help you build bridges from one step in your career to the next.
Tip #1: Be straightforward
Your employer will be happiest with a brief and straightforward two weeks’ notice. This gives the information they need to either hire a new employee or reassign your tasks to other existing ones.
Tip #2: Give an explanation
While you’re not required to give an explanation for your resignation, it helps provide some context and facilitates open channels of communication for the future.
Tip #3: Show gratitude
Thanking your boss for their guidance and leadership is a surefire way to leave a job on good terms with your employer and perhaps even earn a recommendation in the future.
Tip #4: Offer assistance
In the two weeks before your departure, you can offer your support with finishing projects or assisting the transition. This shows your employer that you're hard-working up until your final day.
Tip #5: Prepare for a counteroffer
Your employer may give you a counteroffer to deter you from leaving your job. Make sure to weigh your options and do what is best for you.
Tip #6: Showcase a positive attitude
Showing your boss you had a positive experience and thanking them for the opportunity to work at the company shows that you are leaving a channel of open communication for the future.
Putting in your two weeks’ notice can be a nerve-racking experience, but the above tips can help streamline the process. Whether you received a job offer from your dream company or you prefer to work for yourself, deciding to prioritize your success is taking a step in the right direction. Check out Wellfound's job listings to help determine your next position.
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