Two Weeks' Notice Letter Templates
Writing a two weeks' notice letter is a crucial part of leaving a job professionally. Here are several templates you can use to ensure you leave on good terms.
When you decide to leave a job, providing two weeks' notice is the standard professional courtesy. This notice is formally delivered through a resignation letter. While the conversation with your manager should happen first, the letter is the official document that HR needs for their records. The goal of this letter is to be clear, concise, and professional, ensuring you leave on positive terms.
Your resignation letter doesn’t need to be long or overly detailed. In fact, simpler is often better. It should clearly state your intention to resign, specify your last day of employment, and offer to help with the transition. It is not the place to air grievances or explain in detail why you are leaving.
Here are several templates you can adapt for different situations. Choose the one that best fits your circumstances and relationship with your employer.
Template 1 The Standard and Professional
This is the most common and widely applicable template. It’s straightforward, respectful, and suitable for almost any professional situation.
Subject Resignation - [Your Name]
Body
Dear [Manager's Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of employment will be [Your Last Day], two weeks from today.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to have worked in this position for the past [Number of Years/Months]. I’ve greatly enjoyed my time here and I am grateful for the valuable experience I’ve gained.
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition during my final two weeks. Please let me know how I can be of assistance in handing over my responsibilities.
I wish you and [Company Name] all the best for the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Template 2 The More Personal and Heartfelt
If you have a particularly close relationship with your manager and team, you might want to use a slightly warmer tone. This template adds a bit more personal sentiment while still remaining professional.
Subject Moving On
Body
Dear [Manager's Name],
It is with mixed emotions that I am writing to announce my resignation from my role as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My final day will be [Your Last Day].
I cannot thank you enough for the incredible opportunity you gave me here. I am so proud of everything we’ve accomplished together, especially [mention a specific project or accomplishment]. I’ve learned so much from your mentorship and from working alongside such a talented team.
I will do everything I can to make my departure as smooth as possible over the next two weeks. I am more than happy to help train my replacement and document all of my current projects.
While I am excited about the next chapter in my career, I will truly miss working with you and the team. I hope we can stay in touch.
Wishing you and the company continued success.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Template 3 The "Leaving a Difficult Situation" Letter
If you’re leaving a job because of a negative or toxic environment, it’s still important to be professional in your resignation letter. This is not the time to vent your frustrations. Your letter is a permanent record, and you want it to reflect your professionalism, not your anger. Keep it brief, neutral, and to the point.
Subject Resignation - [Your Name]
Body
Dear [Manager's Name],
Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day will be [Your Last Day].
I would like to thank you for the opportunity. I am available to assist with the transition of my duties over the next two weeks.
I wish you and the company the best.
Regards,
[Your Name]
This template is intentionally short and neutral. It fulfills your professional obligation without opening the door to a potentially difficult conversation. Your reasons for leaving are best discussed in an exit interview with HR, if you choose to do so.
Template 4 If You Need to Give Less Than Two Weeks' Notice
Sometimes, circumstances require you to leave with shorter notice. While this is not ideal, you can still handle it professionally. In this case, it's helpful to provide a brief, professional reason.
Subject Resignation - [Your Name]
Body
Dear [Manager's Name],
Please accept this letter as notification that I will be resigning from my position as [Job Title]. Due to [a brief, professional reason, e.g., a family emergency, a time-sensitive opportunity], my last day of employment will be [Your Last Day].
I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this short notice may cause. I am committed to doing everything I can to ensure a smooth and efficient handover of my responsibilities before my departure.
Thank you for the opportunity to work at [Company Name]. I wish you all the best.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
No matter the circumstances, the goal of your resignation letter is to formally and professionally close this chapter of your career. By keeping your letter positive and forward-looking, you ensure that you leave on the best possible terms.
Internal Links for Further Reading
- How to Resign Professionally and Gracefully
- How to Leave a Job on Good Terms
- Signs You Should Quit Your Job
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I have to give a reason for leaving in my letter?
No, you are not obligated to state your reason for leaving in your resignation letter. Keeping it simple and positive is often the best approach.
Should I email the letter or give a printed copy?
In most modern workplaces, sending the letter via email to your manager (and CC'ing HR) immediately after your in-person or video call conversation is the standard practice.
What should my last day be?
Typically, your last day will be two full work weeks from the day you submit your resignation. For example, if you resign on a Monday, your last day would be the Friday of the following week.
