Transitioning from one job to another can be exciting – and stressful. There is plenty to prepare for, both in leaving your current job and as you begin your new position, including processing paperwork for your old/new job and tying up loose ends.

Whether you’ve already accepted another job or are just ready to quit your current one, start with a two weeks notice letter. This will serve as a formal, written documentation of your intent to leave and your transition timeline. Two weeks is considered the standard amount of notice an employee should give their employer, but it can vary for a couple of reasons. Sometimes circumstances may dictate a more immediate departure, such as a family or personal emergency. Other times, you may have more flexibility and can offer more than two weeks to find your replacement. Regardless, a resignation letter will help ease the transition and maintain your professionalism. 

Although you are moving on, it’s important to treat your departure with as much care and attention as you did your employment. A well-crafted resignation letter will maintain your good reputation, which can only help you in the future. 

Two Weeks Notice Letter Requirements

Like any formal business letter, include your contact information and date at the top of the document. If you’ve taken a few days to draft and edit your letter, make sure the date is updated to match the date you are handing in your notice. The date is important because it helps determine the two weeks notice period. 

In your letter, mention that you will be leaving in two weeks, but also include the actual day, month, and year of your last day so that it’s clear. 

Before handing in your letter, be sure it’s addressed to the correct individuals. Typically, you’ll need to hand the letter to your immediate supervisor, as well as someone from your human resource department. 

The two most essential items to include are the fact that you are leaving and the last day of your employment. 

Not required but may be worth including

It’s always nice to include a note of thanks and appreciation to either your boss or the company as a whole for the opportunities they’ve provided. Be concise and specific. You do not need to cover every minute detail, but consider mentioning one project or specific skill for which you feel especially proud to have accomplished/learned.

Similarly, consider offering to help during the transition and training of your replacement. This might include assurances that outstanding projects will be completed, how and when clients will be contacted, or how you will tie up loose ends. You do not need to offer lengthy details, but a mention that you are available to help will be greatly appreciated (and remembered) by your boss.

Should you include a reason for leaving?

That depends. Your two weeks notice resignation letter only needs to let your boss know your last day. You do not need to include your reason for leaving; however, if your reasons are fairly benign and can be stated briefly, go for it.

Be brief and stay positive. Some examples of reasons you might cite include entering a new field, going back to school, because you found a job closer to home, or you’re taking time off for personal reasons. 

Keep the focus on what your new opportunity provides, not what your current job is lacking.

If you’re leaving for negative reasons (your boss is difficult, the company is lackluster, you wanted more money, etc.), it’s probably best to not mention a reason at all. Like Mom says, if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all!

What to Avoid

Keep the overall tone of your letter positive. Your two weeks notice letter is not the place to air any grievances you have with your boss, your colleagues, or the company. It’s not the place to offer constructive (or unconstructive) criticism. 

At some point in the future, you may need a reference or may find a connection to a former colleague or boss useful. Ending your tenure on a positive note will ensure a lasting good impression. Furthermore, your negativity will not result in anything productive. 

Even if you’ve had a wonderful experience, avoid any overly lengthy stories or explanations. Save these for going away happy hours or farewells. 

Two Week Notice Resignation Letter Examples

Sample Letter 1: Standard Two Weeks Notice Letter 

Sample Letter 2: Leaving to Pursue Another Field 

Sample Letter 3: As Brief as Possible 

Sample Letter 4: Cordial and Concise 

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