If you intend to quit your job, it is customary to send a two-week notice to your employer via email as a professional courtesy. Even though this can be distressing at times, the reality is that most managers have had team members quit before. It’s possible, even if you don’t believe it, that they have picked up on your departure. We tend to make these moments bigger than they are, but the best thing you can do for your manager is to talk to them clearly and directly. If you’re wondering how to write a two-week notice email to quit your job, you’ve come to the right place. Taking the next big step in your career has just gotten a whole lot easier.
What Is a Two-Week Notice?
When you write a two-week notice to your employer, you are formally notifying them that you are resigning or that you want to quit your job. Handing in your notice is a common way for an employee to resign, regardless of your profession. The two-week time frame has become the norm in the United States. Even though it is a simple procedure, not everyone is aware of the proper etiquette for giving two weeks’ notice. Some employees may give their two weeks’ notice without thinking about the implications for the company. This can lead to workplace frustration or conflict. It makes no difference if you’re leaving because of an exciting new job opportunity, because you need a break from work, or because you’ve decided to start a business. Understanding and learning how to give a two-week notice before quitting your job can impact your current and future career path.
See Also: CONSTRUCTIVE TERMINATION: What is it and How can you avoid it?
Why Should You Give Your Employer a Two-Week Notice?
If you write a two-week notice to your employer, it informs him of your intention to quit your current job as well as the date on which you intend to depart. It gives your employer enough time to adjust and demonstrates your competence. This notice can help you leave your current employer on good terms and set you up for future success.
There are two primary reasons why you should give two weeks’ notice. For starters, it is a polite way of informing your employer that you are leaving your current position. It is common for people to leave their jobs and seek new opportunities. Ensure that your employer can speak positively about your departure during this process. For example, leaving your job abruptly and without notice may put your employer in a difficult position. This may limit your ability to use that employer as a reference for future jobs or expose you to the risk of a potential employer discovering your amateurish exit.
In many cases, your notice will provide your employer with enough time to settle any accounts in your name or to ensure you have final financial information, such as retirement accounts or back pay. Your employer may also require time to post your previous job and find the right candidate to replace you.
Another reason to give two weeks’ notice is to document your intention to leave the company. Your current employer may use this document for a variety of reasons, including gaining insight into the motivations of departing employees or establishing documentation for legal purposes. How you leave your job may also have an impact on your future job success. Whatever the reason for your departure, you should avoid making a bad impression throughout the resignation process.
How to Write a Simple Two-Week Notice Letter
Consider the following guidelines as you begin to write a two-week notice letter to quit your job
- Address your letter.
- Begin by mentioning the date. Your company information, as well as the name of the person to whom you are addressing the letter,
- Declare your resignation and quit.
- In the first paragraph of your letter, get right to the point. Inform your employer that you will be leaving your position in two weeks. Include the date of your last day of employment with the company.
- Express your appreciation.
- In the second paragraph, write a short note of thanks to the company for the chance, time, and effort it has given you. You might also want to say a few words about why you’re leaving or why you’re resigning.
- Mention the next steps briefly.
- Finally, in a few sentences, express your commitment to doing your job well through your last day and offer to help out if they need it during the transition period. Then sign off. A formal closing such as “sincerely” and your name at the end of the letter are appropriate ways to conclude.
No matter how unique your reasons for leaving are, it’s best to leave a good impression by expressing your gratitude or mentioning something you particularly enjoyed about your time at the company in your final paragraph.
Can an Employer Deny Two Weeks Notice?
Even though it’s not required by law, most people give two weeks’ notice when they leave a job. Even if an employee quits on the spot, the business must follow state laws about final paychecks and paid time off.
Can I Handwrite My 2 Weeks Notice?
Yes, in order for your resignation to be legally binding, it must be handwritten and signed. In addition, the employer’s name and address, as well as the date of your resignation, must be stated in your letter. It’s also important to provide a specific date for the resignation to take effect.
Two Weeks Notice Letter Example
If you were offered a position with another company, you could write this two-week notice letter:
Date:
Name of the company:
Dear
Mr./Ms. [insert name]
This letter is to let you know that I will be leaving my job as [insert job title] at [insert company name] two weeks from today [insert date].
Working at [insert company name] has been an amazing experience, and I am humbled by the opportunities you have provided me. My final day of work is [insert date].
I intend to continue working at a high level of quality until my last day of work. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you make a smooth transition during this time.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Hard copy signature]
Additional Tips for Quitting Your Job Smoothly
Additional tips for quitting your Job smoothly to help you transition from one stage of your career to the next, here are a few good tips to consider.
#1. Be Direct
Your boss will appreciate a brief and straightforward two weeks notice. This provides them with the information they require to either hire a new employee or reassign your tasks to other current employees.
#2. Provide an Explanation.
Giving a reason for your resignation is not required, but it does help set the stage and keeps lines of communication open in the future.
#3. Express Gratitude
Thanking your boss for their direction and leadership is the surest way to leave a job on good terms and possibly earn a recommendation in the future.
#4. Offer To Help.
You can offer your help and support with finishing projects or assisting with the transition in the two weeks before your departure. This demonstrates to your employer that you are working hard until your last day.
#5. Be Ready for a Counter-Offer.
Your employer may make you a counter-offer to keep you from leaving. You should weigh your options and decide what is best for you.
#6: Display a Positive Attitude.
By showing your boss that you had a good time at the company and thanking them for the chance to work there, you leave an open line of communication for the future.
What Should You Not Say When Resigning?
Don’t make your manager feel like it’s their responsibility that you’re leaving the company by using phrases like quitting or leaving when you give your resignation. Statements like “I’ve outgrown my position” or “I’ve found a better opportunity” should also be avoided. In lieu of that, you should ease them into it.
Can Resignation Be Rejected?
No, that can’t happen. The employee has the right to quit, and the employer can’t take that away from them. The company has to take the letter of resignation. If he does this, he could be charged with a crime.
How to Tell Your Boss You Want to Quit the Job Verbally
Depending on the kind of relationship you have with your boss, you can decide to meet face-to-face to inform him of your intention to quit your job and not write the two-week notice. It is preferable to resign in person. If possible, schedule a meeting with your employer. You can also have this conversation by phone or video conference if necessary. In most cases, this meeting should be with your immediate supervisor. It is a courtesy to your manager that avoids unexpected news and gives them more time to prepare. It also allows you to have a personal conversation with them to express your gratitude for the opportunity.
If you are unable to meet in person, you can write a two-week notice email instead. If you are unable to resign in person or communicate with your supervisor via phone or video conference, you can write and send a two-week notice email. In this case, give your email a clear subject line, keep the body brief and positive, and attach your two-week letter as an attachment.
Here’s an Example of How to Write a Two-Week Notice Email:
- Subject Line. When you’re set to write your two-week notice resignation letter, include in the subject line of the email that you’re resigning. It’s important that people open and read your message.
- Greetings Address the letter to your manager. Your resignation should be recorded in the company’s official records, so it’s a good idea to copy HR.
- Resignation Notice: Inform your employer of your intention to leave the company and the date of your last day of work.
- Optional Information: If you want to offer a helping hand during the transition or thank your manager for the opportunity, do so after you’ve stated your intention to resign.
- Include your contact information (email and phone number) in the message or your signature so that the recipient can easily follow up.
Below is a Sample of How You Can Write Your Two-Week Notice Resignation Email
Subject: [Notice of Resignation]
[Name]
I am writing to give you two weeks’ notice that I will be leaving my position as [Position in the company]. My last day of work will be [date]
Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help with the transition. I would be happy to help in any way I can during the time I have left with the company. You can also reach me via my personal email, [provide your email] or [cell phone], if you have any questions.
My best wishes are with you and your company. Thank you so much for all of your assistance during my time with the company.
Best wishes,
[name]
Conclusion
You must read over your employment contract before providing notice, just in case the company you work for has additional resignation guidelines. As part of the official procedure, you might be required to submit a letter giving notice of two weeks’ duration, but this is contingent on the specifics of your contract. You can also follow the format in this article when writing your resignation letter.
How to Write a Two-Week Notice FAQS
How do I write my 2 weeks notice?
Format for a two-week notice letter
- Begin with the recipient’s name and address.
- Declare your decision and notify your recipient of the pertinent dates
- Give a brief explanation for your resignation.
- Express your appreciation for your time with the company.
- Finish by outlining the next steps.
How do I tell my boss I quit?
How to Inform Your Boss of Your Resignation
- Request a face-to-face meeting.
- Describe your reasons for quitting.
- Provide at least two weeks’ notice.
- Offer to help with position transition.
- Express your appreciation.
- Give constructive feedback.
- Send your formal resignation letter.
Is it OK to handwrite a 2 weeks notice?
For your resignation letter to be legally binding, it must be in writing and signed by you. In addition, the employer’s name and address, as well as the date of your resignation, must be included in your letter.
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