What Goes in a Two-Week Notice?
- Since the point of a two-week notice is to inform your employer that you are quitting, the letter should contain the date you hand the letter to your boss at the top of the page. Include your resignation date in the body of the letter, which should be two weeks from the date at the top of the page. For instance, if the letter is dated for January 14, 20XX, then your date of resignation should be January 28, 20XX.
- Thank your employer and your direct boss for the opportunity to work at the company. Two-week notices are not only used to inform your employer you are leaving, but to keep from burning bridges as well. Show appreciation by using phrases like, "It has been a pleasure to work for (company name)" and "Thank you for the opportunity to work at (company name)." Do not bad-mouth, or severely criticize, the company or the recipient. The recipient should be your direct boss, who is often a regional manager, department head or corporate executive.
- Although you are leaving your current position, don't be a burden during your final days of employment. Let your employer know that you are more than willing to be cooperative with the company until your date of resignation. Offer your boss assistance in finding and training a replacement for your position. Use phrases like, "Please let me know what I can do to make my final time at (company name) a productive experience" or "Please let me know how I can make a smooth transition during my remaining time here."
- Although your current professional relationship with your company is coming to a close, leave a door open and include your contact information in the letter. Include your name, address, telephone number and email address so your employer can stay in contact with you if need be.
