It is professional courtesy to give your employer a two weeks’ resignation notice when you leave your position. While it is usually not required contractually it is always essential to leave a job on good terms. If you want to know all about submitting a two weeks’ notice resignation letter, we will cover everything you need to know to help you leave your current position with grace.
What is a two weeks’ notice resignation letter?
A two weeks’ notice resignation letter is a document that an employee gives to their supervisor and Human Resources announcing their intent to leave the company at the end of a two weeks’ time. Either 14 calendar days or 10 business days are considered a two-week notice.
What to say in a two weeks’ notice resignation letter?
When it comes to drafting your two weeks’ notice resignation letter, think carefully about what you want to say and take some time to go through this in your head before writing. It might even help make some notes of things you don’t want to forget to say. Here is what you want to ensure is in your two weeks’ notice resignation letter:
Make a clear and concise statement
In most situations it is ideal to have the subject line and first line of your two weeks’ notice resignation letter clearly and concisely state that you will be resigning from your position within the company at the end of the two-week period. Do not confuse your supervisor and Human Resources by using wording that sounds like you are willing to stay longer.
Examples of what to say
- This letter serves as official notice of my resignation from [company name] as [job title], effective on June 15, 2022.
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Please be advised that I am resigning from [company name] as [job title] in two weeks, so my last day will be June 15, 2022.
Examples of what not to say
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I am quitting my position as [job title]. Please advise on what would be the most convenient date for you.
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My intention is to resign from my position as [job title] in two weeks and I will let you know if anything changes.
How should you organize your two weeks’ notice resignation letter?
When formatting your two weeks’ notice resignation letter, be sure to include the following items:
Header
The header should include the date of the letter, the company name, your supervisor’s name and title, company address, and your supervisor’s email address. Here is an example of what the header should look like:
June 1, 2022
Mr. John Smith, Executive Director
Acme Corporation
1234 Main Street
Atlanta, GA 30329
Salutation
You should address the resignation letter to your supervisor. Here are two examples of what the salutation should look like:
Dear Mr. John Smith,
-OR-
Dear John, (Note: Only use this if you are on a first-name basis with your supervisor.)
First Paragraph
In the first paragraph let your supervisor know that you are resigning as of the effective date, which will be two weeks from the date of the letter.
Second Paragraph (Not necessary)
A second paragraph is not necessary in a two weeks’ notice resignation letter, but it is a good idea to leave your position within the company on a positive note. Here is an example of what could be included:
I appreciate the lessons I learned while working with you. Please let me know what I can do to help with this transition.
In the second paragraph let your supervisor know the reason that you are leaving. Always give positive reasons and don’t ever go into the reasons you dislike your current position. Some common reasons to leave a position is to accept another position with more money or better benefits, making a career change, taking time off to care for family, or to further your education. In addition, offer to help with the transition as you exit the company.
Closing Salutation and Signature Block
Common closings to a resignation letter include Sincerely, Best regards, Best wishes, Warm regards, or Respectfully. Leave a space to sign your name and under that should be your typed name and contact information.
Best Practices to Follow
- DO give your employer at least a two weeks’ notice that you are resigning from the company.
- DO consider giving a four weeks’ notice if the company is experiencing a particularly busy time. (Note: This is especially true for senior executive positions.)
- DO be prepared to have an honest discussion about the reason(s) you have chosen to resign.
- DO be both friendly and formal. (Example: “I am very thankful for the experience and opportunity to work for such a well-established and successful organization.”)
- DON’T give less than two weeks’ notice because that will make future employers wonder if you would do the same to them.
- DON’T feel like you must give a particular reason, but this can be a good idea if you might be interested in returning to the company in the future.
- DON’T criticize the company or your supervisor.
- DON’T write more than one page.
Example Two Weeks’ Resignation Letters
Example 1 – Simple and to the point
This is an example of a two weeks’ notice resignation letter that is simple and to the point. Remember, you can make it less formal by using your supervisor’s first name [Dear John,] instead of using his/her full name [Dear Mr. John Smith]. The notice below is clear and concise and gets your message across quickly.
June 1, 2022
Mr. John Smith
Executive Director
Acme Corporation
1234 Main Street
Atlanta, GA 30329
Dear Mr. Smith,
Effective two weeks from today, which will be June 15, 2022, I will be resigning from my position as Accountant from Acme Corporation.
Respectfully,
Emily Miller
cc: Human Resources
Example 2 – Clear and concise with a showing of gratitude
This is an example of a two weeks’ notice resignation letter that shows gratitude to your supervisor for the skills and experience gained during your tenure with the organization. The notice below is clear and concise, but it also shows your gratitude which will reflect positively on you.
June 1, 2022
Mr. John Smith
Executive Director
Acme Corporation
1234 Main Street
Atlanta, GA 30329
Dear Mr. Smith,
Effective two weeks from today, which will be June 15, 2022, I will be resigning from my position as Accountant from Acme Corporation.
I have enjoyed my time working with you and have gained valuable lessons that I can take with me. I am grateful that I had this opportunity and I wish you all the best.
Respectfully,
Emily Miller
cc: Human Resources
Conclusion
Keep in mind that you will want to leave your current position on the best terms possible. During your last two weeks it is essential to continue to perform your job duties at a high standard. There is always a change that you may need to pursue employment with the company in the future. In addition, it is likely that you will need a letter of recommendation from your supervisor, or at the very least a reference.