Two Weeks' Notice Letter

What is a two weeks' notice?

A two-week notice refers to a standard professional courtesy where an employee informs their employer of their intention to resign from their position. It is a common practice that prepares employees and employers for the transition.

The two-week notice period typically starts when the employee formally communicates their decision to leave and lasts for two weeks. 

During this time, the employee is expected to fulfill their job responsibilities, wrap up any pending tasks, and assist with transferring their duties to a new employee or a designated individual. 

Providing a two-week notice allows the company to find a substitute or redistribute workload to ensure a transition and minimize disruptions to the workflow. It is considered a professional and respectful way to conclude one's employment with an organization.

Why should you give a two-week notice?

The employer needs time to plan for your departure from the business. The HR department will either begin seeking a replacement or allocate responsibilities to other employees to ensure continuity for tasks of the employee that will depart.

The two-week notice letter benefits not only the employer but also the employee planning to leave: by drafting a proper, short, and considerate letter, you will preserve a professional image and leave the organization on a positive note. Your manager, colleagues, and HR department will appreciate it if you specify a specific departure date.

How to write a two weeks notice letter?

When preparing your letter of resignation, yet consider the following details:

1. Address the letter

Provide clearly your contact details: your name, date, address, and subject line in the letter.

2. Clearly state your resignation

In the first paragraph, highlight that you inform your employer that you will leave in two weeks. Include the date of your last day of work.

3. Show your gratitude and appreciation

Thank you for the possibilities and experiences you've had at the company in the second paragraph. It is entirely up to you whether or not you add a reason for your leaving.

4. Highlight the next steps

Let your employer know in your final paragraph that you aim to do your obligations to the greatest standards until your last day on the job. Offer to help with the transition.

5. End the letter professionally

Finish with a formal ending, such as "sincerely," and sign your name.

You might be interested on alternatives on how to end a letter.

Tips for Writing a Two-Week Notice Letter

Find below some suggestions for making your two week notice letter letter as effective as possible:

• Use formal letter format—the ideal choice for a professional appearance for your paper. 
• Be succinct. You don't have to go into great detail about why you're leaving. Stick to stating that you are resigning and the date of your final work day.
• Show your appreciation. Consider saying a heartfelt thank you for the newfound knowledge.
• Be forward-thinking: Avoid making disparaging statements about supervisors or coworkers. You never know; you might return someday.
• Follow the next steps provided. Your manager may request that you create a transition plan, complete specified projects, or compose a farewell message to your coworkers.
• Focus on being positive. During the entire resignation process, the tone of your notice should be positive—aim to part on good terms while maintaining your professional network. You might ask for a recommendation letter if you leave in good condition.
• Set a resignation out of office message. On the last day of work, you might setup an automated auto-reply out of office message, stating that you are no longer with company.

How do you give two weeks' notice the right way?

Providing two weeks' notice is a professional and respectful method to quit from a workplace. Here are the steps an employee can take to provide a two-week notice:

Request a private meeting with your supervisor to talk about your resignation. This meeting should be conducted in person if possible.

Prepare a formal resignation letter stating your intention to resign and the effective date, typically two weeks from the date of the conversation. Thank your superiors for the opportunities and experiences you had during your time in the organization.

During the meeting, be prepared to discuss your decision and its reasons. Keep the tone positive and professional, focusing on your career growth or new opportunities. Reflect on what you will do in two cases: If the employer wants to provide a counteroffer or promotion so that you remain in the company.

Affirm that you are willing to help with the transition. The support may include training a replacement, documenting processes, or any other responsibilities that will help ensure a smooth handover.

Provide a copy of your resignation letter during the meeting and discuss the logistics of your departure, including the last working day and any outstanding tasks.

Once you have spoken to your supervisor, inform your team and colleagues about your decision. You can do this in a team meeting or through individual conversations.

Work with HR to complete any necessary exit formalities, such as returning company property, finalizing paperwork, and discussing benefits or returning any outstanding items.

Throughout the two weeks, continue to fulfill your responsibilities professionally. Complete assigned tasks, assist with the transition, and avoid negative comments or behavior.

Tip: You could be asked to fill an exit interview form.

Express gratitude to your colleagues, team members, and superiors for the support and collaboration you've experienced during your time with the company.

Provide your contact information to colleagues who may wish to stay in touch, and leave on a positive note. Networking is crucial, and maintaining professional relationships can be valuable in the future.

For example, connecting on LinkedIn with your main colleagues might help you get the next opportunity in the future or vice versa.

Remember, giving a two-week notice is not just a professional courtesy; it's a chance to part ways amicably and preserve your goodwill with your current employment. This approach reflects well on your professional reputation and may open doors for future collaborations or recommendations.

What are Good Reasons for Leaving a Job?

There can be various valid reasons for leaving a job, and it often depends on individual circumstances and priorities. Here are ten common reasons that are often considered acceptable for leaving a job:

• Career Growth: Seeking new opportunities for professional growth, advancement, and development not available in the current position or organization.
• Better Compensation: Pursuing a job offer with a better salary, benefits, bonuses, or other financial incentives.
• Work-Life Balance: Seeking to secure a position with more flexible hours to achieve a better work-life balance, reduced workload, or improved leave policies.
• Relocation: Moving to a different city or country for personal or family reasons necessitates a job change.
• Company Culture or Values: Misalignment with the company's culture, values, or ethics, making it difficult to thrive or find personal fulfillment in the workplace.
• Lack of Credit or Appreciation: Getting a sense of being undervalued and underappreciated for the contributions made despite efforts to excel in the role.
• Unhealthy Work Environment: Experiencing a toxic workplace environment, such as harassment, discrimination, or an unsupportive atmosphere that affects well-being and job satisfaction.
• Career Change: Transitioning into a different field or industry to pursue a new passion, interest, or long-term career goal.
• Job Insecurity: Facing an uncertain future with the current employer, such as company downsizing, restructuring, or financial instability.
• Commute or Location: Dealing with a long and stressful commute or desiring to work closer to home to improve quality of life.

It's important to approach discussions about leaving a job honestly and professionally. Employers generally understand that employees seek growth and better opportunities, making these reasons acceptable for leaving a job.

FAQs:

What exactly is a two-week notice letter?

A two weeks' notice letter is a formal resignation letter that informs your employer that you intend to resign two weeks from the date specified in the letter.

What constitutes two weeks' notice?

14 calendar days, or 10 working days.

To whom should I address my notice?

Your immediate supervisor should be the first to know of your resignation, but it's also a good idea to notify the Human Resources department.