When you leave a place of work, it is best to maintain professional relationships with your superiors and colleagues. Therefore, you must give at least two weeks’ notice before departure. This article will explain a two weeks letter, what to include in it, how to improve it, and also provides samples and templates that you can use as guides for writing your own.
What is a Two Weeks Notice Letter?
You may leave your job for several reasons. However, it is required that you give a minimum of two weeks’ notice to your manager or boss before you leave. The notice is important so you can complete your ongoing tasks, give your supervisors time to arrange a replacement. In addition, read your employment contract again to ensure you follow the formal resignation guidelines of your organization.
A two weeks notice letter is a formal way to give notice before you leave a job. Most employers are often grateful that you are willing to help out for two weeks before eventually leaving the organization. In other cases, you may be asked to leave immediately. Therefore, as a cautionary method, only submit your resignation letter after you have officially received a new job offer.
Reasons Why You Should Give a Two Weeks Notice
Irrespective of why you are leaving your current job, you must maintain professional conduct by giving proper notice. Here are some reasons why you should give a two weeks notice:
Being professional and respectful
Giving a two weeks notice may not be a requirement according to state employment laws. However, it is a civil action that shows how professional and respectful you are. Resigning without giving proper notice may interfere with the productivity of the department and organization at large. Therefore, a two weeks notice is a polite way to quit your job as it shows you are a considerate person.
Finding a replacement
One of the purposes of a two weeks notice is to give your employer ample time to find a replacement. This shows your commitment to the continuity of operations in your organization. You can also use this time to help the new person adjust to the role you are leaving. Leaving suddenly is one way of telling them that you are unconcerned about how operations will be managed in your absence.
Finish all your work duties
Another purpose of giving notice is to complete all your ongoing duties. In addition, you may need to help the new person transition into the role. Finally, this period allows you to return all company documents or property related to a project. As a result, the organizational activities can proceed smoothly in your absence.
Getting a good recommendation
Your boss may not be encouraged to write a good recommendation letter if you quit without proper notice. You never know when you will need a recommendation; therefore, you should not ruin your reputation. Statements like: “He is a hardworking person. However, he left the organization suddenly, and things were chaotic for some weeks” leaves a bad impression of you to your new employer. A good recommendation is a testament to being a good person as well as being good at your job.
Have a written record of your resignation
Submitting a two weeks notice letter serves as a written record of your resignation. Every organization has a resignation policy that may require a letter of termination. Going to your boss’s office and verbally inform them of your resignation may not be enough. A two weeks’ notice letter is a formal way to inform your boss that you are resigning.
How to Give a Two Weeks Notice Â
Giving a two weeks notice does not have to be a difficult task. You are not bound to share details of your new job. Instead, keep it professional and simple.
Here are four steps to follow when you want to submit your two weeks notice letter:
Step 1: Arrange a meeting with your employer
Some of your colleagues may know that you went for a job interview. However, your manager or employer should be the first to know that you are resigning. Wait until you have finalized the new employment contract before you arrange a meeting with your current employer. Avoid posting on social media or telling your co-workers before speaking to your employer. You can tell them in person, through a phone call, or a video call. This step is important because it helps maintain your professional relationship with your employer.
Step 2: Prepare for your conversation
Many employees are often uncertain about what to say during the meeting with their employer. The best strategy is to keep your tone professional while telling your employer your decision to resign. In addition, prepare for any follow-up questions and determine how you want to respond. For example, decide if you will be interested in a counteroffer from your employer.
Step 3: Write the two weeks notice letter
The next step is to write the letter after having a verbal conversation with your employer. Some private organizations may not require a written resignation. However, submitting your written notice to the right officials is a good idea. Keep the letter short and professional.
Step 4: Deliver the letter or send an email
The last step is to deliver the two weeks notice letter. You can either do this in person or send it via email. This stage is important because it serves as proof that you gave a two weeks notice. Irrespective of the cause of departure, delivering the letter should be done professionally.
Alternatively, you can send a resignation email, but the word “resignation” must be included in the subject. The body of the email should be concise. You can also attach the two weeks notice letter as a document.
What to Include in a Two Weeks Notice Letter Â
A two weeks’ notice letter should be short and straightforward. However, there are some crucial components that must be included in the letter.
These include:
Announcement of your resignation
When writing your two weeks notice letter, announce your resignation in the opening paragraph. The letter should be concise and to-the-point. State clearly that you are resigning from your role and will leave in two weeks. Don’t forget to mention the exact date to avoid any confusion.
Reasons for your resignation
It is polite to briefly explain why you are resigning. It could be family issues, better opportunities, work benefits, etc. Note that this is optional as it is not necessary for you to include the reason for your resignation.
Date of your last day
One of the most important components of a two weeks notice letter is the date of your last day at work. Clearly indicate the specific date you want to resign. Alternatively, you can mention two weeks from the date on the letter.
Statement of gratitude
Another crucial element is the statement of gratitude. Write a short paragraph expressing your gratitude for the growth, opportunities, and guidance during the time you worked with the organization. Let them know you are happy to have worked with them because of the skills you learned. Irrespective of your view about the work, expressing gratitude helps to focus on positive aspects and emotions.
In addition, avoid focusing on the exciting aspect of your new job. Instead, write appreciative words about your colleagues, managers, and the organization.
Offer to help with the transition
At the end of your letter, offer to assist with the transition. For example, you can say: “I would be glad to help train the new employee or do what I can to ensure the department is still functional in my absence.” . You can also assist the new employee in the form of leaving notes. This will leave a good impression on the employer.
Sample Letter
Here is a sample of two weeks notice letter:
Milly Brown
22 Wall Street
New York, NY 10012
(555) 543-2211
September 28, 202x
Mason Clarke
CEO
Mason Café
1438 Broadway Street
New York, NY 10012
Dear Mr. Clarke,
I write this letter to notify you of my resignation as the accountant of Mason café as of October 11, 2022.
An opportunity opened up for a role I believe would be better for my growth. Therefore, I believe it is best to pursue this opportunity. I appreciate the years I have worked here and all the friends I have made. I also would like to appreciate your investment in my professional career.
I am grateful for everyone I have worked with in the organization. Therefore, I would be delighted to help find a replacement and mentor them to fit into the role. This will allow the café to run smoothly while I leave the role.
Thank you for all the good years we spent together. Do not hesitate to call me if you need anything. Best regards!
Yours Sincerely,
Milly Brown
Free Templates
A template can help you easily construct a two weeks notice letter. This is a more accessible alternative to creating the letter from the beginning. Therefore, we have provided customized and pre-made two weeks notice letter templates that you can download for free.
8 Ways to Improve Your Two Weeks Notice Letter Â
Below are some tips that you can follow to improve your two weeks notice letter:
Stay professional
Irrespective of the relationship with your boss-either friendly or casual, ensure the tone of the letter is professional and respectful. Keep in mind that this letter is a notice of resignation and not an avenue to make complaints.
Use business letter format
One way to improve your two weeks notice letter is to use a business letter format. This shows you are being professional. Therefore, the letter should contain the date, your contact information, and your employer’s contact information.
Keep it simple and concise
A notice weeks notice letter is a formal letter, so it must be simple and direct. Avoid oversharing or explaining your reasons for quitting. You are not required to justify your reasons for leaving the job or explain what you will do next.
Avoid sharing negative feelings
Sometimes you may have residual negative feelings about a job. For example, you may have been under-appreciated, or your boss was always mean to you. Remember that the two-week notice is not a suitable medium to share your negative feelings. Irrespective of any bad experience, focus on the good times, as this will help you maintain positive professional relationships.
Be positive
Please note that when writing your resignation letter, you should not use bad language. Avoid leaving derogatory comments about anyone. Use a positive tone in your letter to ensure you maintain a cordial relationship with the employer.
Send the letter to the right people
Ensure you send the two weeks notice to the appropriate officials. The number of copies to send may vary depending on the organizational policy. Usually, you are required to drop a copy with HR and the supervisor.
Proofread
Proofreading helps remove any typing mistakes, grammatical errors, and punctuation errors from your letter. The aim is to sound professional, so you need to write the letter in a formal tone and style. Proofread the letter a couple of times before sending it to your employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can resign without giving any notice as there is no law being violated.
Speaking to your employer before signing a contract with the new company is essential. Your employer can suggest a counteroffer that may include salary increments, increased incentives, or a promotion. Therefore, you need to be mentally prepared.
Federal or state laws do not mandate you to give two weeks notice before leaving a job. However, employment policies of some organizations demand you provide some notice. Failure to abide by the company policy may result in the withdrawal of certain benefits. Therefore, read your employment contract thoroughly before taking any steps.
Using vacation time for a two weeks notice depends on the organization’s policy. If the policy allows, you to go on a vacation and decide to not come back to your role in the organization. However, many employers do not accept this because you will not be beneficial in the transition process.
It is acceptable not to give a two weeks notice when:
-The job puts your health at risk.
-Your new job demands you start immediately.
-You suffer emotional abuse in the workplace.
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