Two Weeks’ Notice: How to Give Notice When Resigning

Giving two weeks’ notice means telling your employer you’re resigning from your current job, and your last day of work will be two weeks from the date of your resignation. Though not legally required unless stipulated in your employment contract, giving advance notice of your departure through a formal resignation letter ensures a smooth transition period for all involved.

The United States government considers most jobs at-will employment, meaning employers may terminate employees for any nondiscriminatory reason. Similarly, you’re considered an at-will employee and may quit your job for any reason or none at all. Still, aside from particular situations such as workplace abuse, giving your current employer an extended notice period before leaving benefits you in several ways:

• Allows you enough time to tie up loose ends: Giving notice provides you time to take care of any remaining details, like receiving your final paycheck, gathering your belongings, and saying goodbye to your work friends.
• Assists your current employer with the hiring process: Two weeks’ notice gives your current employer some time to find and train your replacement, allowing you to leave on a positive note.
• Maintains your reputation: Resigning with the customary notice on good terms helps maintain a favorable relationship with your employer. Many professions rely on word-of-mouth when it comes to hiring, so keeping your reputation as a professional positively affects future job opportunities.
• Supports your coworkers: Even if you’re not satisfied with your current job, you probably don’t want to leave your fellow employees in a lurch. Ample notice gives them time to transition and maintains solid relationships with people you might work with again in the future.

Once you’ve determined you’re ready to move on from your current job, these next steps provide a smooth exit:

1. 1. Secure a new job. Avoid handing in your notice until you have a better opportunity or job offer (if possible). Get started with Anna Wintour’s four interview tips for landing the perfect job. Remember to talk with your future employer about your start date if you don’t want to leave lag time between your current job and your new job.
2. 2. Refer to your employee handbook. Some employers have specific guidelines for resigning from their company. Be familiar with the company rules before going forward with your plan.
3. 3. Write your two weeks’ notice letter. Though you can technically send an email or resign verbally, writing an official letter of resignation is customary and helps you and your employer avoid confusion. Include the date, your resignation, your last day of employment, and a message of gratitude for the job. Refer to resignation letter examples and templates online if you need them.
4. 4. Communicate your plans face-to-face. Before giving your formal notice, if appropriate to your situation, tell your supervisor you’re resigning and discuss why you’re leaving face-to-face. Many employers appreciate open communication, especially if you have a good working relationship.
5. 5. Turn in your resignation letter. Depending on your company policies, you may give your letter to your direct supervisor, the human resources department, or both. Be sure to communicate your final day of employment to avoid confusion, and keep a hard copy of your letter for yourself.
6. 6. Be flexible if you can. Your current employer may want you to stay beyond two weeks. If you can be flexible with your exit date, do so. Leaving on good terms benefits you in the long run.
7. 7. Meet with human resources. Discuss final details with the human resources department. You may be able to use or get paid for accrued vacation time and unused sick days. Discuss actions needed for your pension and 401k if applicable.

Follow these tips when creating your two weeks’ notice resignation letter:

1. 1. Be courteous and professional. Depending on the circumstances of your exit, it never hurts to be polite and professional when you leave. If appropriate, express gratitude for your employment and keep the tone positive.
2. 2. Include your exit date. State your final date of employment clearly to avoid disputes or confusion.
3. 3. Keep it simple. No need to make your letter long or complicated. You only need to include your resignation and your final day of work.
4. 4. Send an email if you prefer. Since many modern jobs are remote, you may also send a resignation email if appropriate. Include the same information you’d put in your resignation letter.
5. 5. Use a business letter template. Include the company name and address, date, and your contact information, and conclude the letter with your signature.

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