Remember that iconic scene in Mad Men where Peggy handed in her two weeks’ notice to Don Draper? She was so done with the place that no amount of money or privileges could’ve made her stay. Yet, even in her frustration, she put in her notice—because it was the right thing to do.
Leaving a job is a regular part of almost every career journey. The reasons can vary from chasing a new opportunity, seeking a better work-life balance, or simply being ready for something new—how you leave matters. Burning bridges? Not a great idea. Professionalism and maintaining positive relationships? Always in style.
And part of that professionalism is making a graceful exit. So, let’s dive into how to submit your two weeks’ notice the right way.
Key takeaways
- Submit your two weeks’ notice only after securing your next job and ideally a written offer.
- A resignation letter should include your final working day, a clear resignation statement, and a short thank-you note.
- Inform your manager in person or via a meeting (remote workers) before following up with a formal letter or email.
- Work diligently during your notice period, avoid burning bridges, and offer help with the transition.
- You’re not required to give a reason for leaving, but a brief, positive explanation can help maintain goodwill if you choose to share one.
What is a Two Weeks’ Notice?
A two weeks’ notice is an official resignation document that informs your employer of your intention to leave your position. It’s a professional courtesy that signals you’re wrapping up your time with the company while giving them enough warning to prepare for your departure.
Why the two weeks? This timeline is important because it balances your needs with those of the company. It provides your employer with a reasonable period to find a replacement, delegate your responsibilities, or plan a smooth transition. More importantly, leaving on good terms maintains your reputation and preserves future opportunities.
When to submit your two weeks notice
The best time to submit your resignation is once you’re absolutely certain about your next step. This means having your new job secured—and ideally, a written offer in hand.
Verbal agreements or ongoing negotiations aren’t enough, as circumstances can change unexpectedly. A written offer ensures you have concrete plans before making your move.
Once you’re ready, aim to submit your notice at the start or end of the workday to minimize disruption. If possible, share the news with your manager in person—it’s the most professional approach—and follow up with an email to document everything. If you’re working remotely, schedule a quick one-on-one meeting over video or phone, then send a written confirmation afterward.
PRO TIP
If the timing happens to fall during a busy or stressful period, don’t let that stop you. Workplaces can be chaotic, and sometimes that’s exactly why you’re leaving. The key is to stay professional and focus on making your departure as smooth as possible. Offer to help with the transition, tie up loose ends, or leave clear instructions for whoever takes over. That way, you guarantee leaving on a positive note, regardless of the circumstances.
How to Submit Your Two Weeks’ Notice
In case you’ve definitely decided you’re quitting, let’s craft a handy five-step plan for your departure.
Steps for a smooth departure
- Step 1: Prepare beforehand
Make sure you’ve secured new employment or financial stability before resigning. Review company policies on notice periods, final pay, and benefits to avoid surprises, and understand any protocols for returning company property. - Step 2: Write a clear and concise letter
Your notice should include a greeting, a clear resignation statement with your final workday, and a note of appreciation. Maintain a positive tone, express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had, and offer to assist with the transition. - Step 3: Schedule a meeting with your manager
Arrange a private meeting to inform your manager of your decision professionally. Be prepared for any reaction, whether it’s acceptance, counteroffers, or even pushback, and keep the conversation respectful and focused on your decision. - Step 4: Follow up in writing
If you resigned in person, send a follow-up email to document everything. Attach your resignation letter as a formal record and provide any details you’ve discussed to ensure clarity. - Step 5: Finish strong during your notice period
Work diligently through your remaining time to leave a positive impression. Avoid burning bridges, even if you’re leaving under less-than-ideal circumstances, as professionalism can preserve valuable relationships for the future.
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What to Put in a Two Weeks’ Notice
A two weeks’ notice should be simple and to the point, letting your employer know you’re leaving while keeping things professional. Here’s what to do (and what to avoid) to make it clear and respectful.
Key elements of a two weeks’ notice
What to include:
- Date and recipient’s name: Ensure the document is dated and addressed to the appropriate person, typically your manager.
- Explicit resignation statement: Clearly state your intention to resign, leaving no room for ambiguity.
- Final working day: Specify your last day of employment, which should be two weeks from the date of the notice.
- A short thank-you note: Express appreciation for the opportunities and experiences you’ve had in the role.
- Offer to assist with the transition (optional): Mention your willingness to help train your replacement or assist with handing over responsibilities.
- Your contact information: Provide a way for your employer to reach you after your departure, if needed.
What not to include:
- Detailed reasons for leaving: You don’t need to go into specifics unless it’s relevant and necessary.
- Complaints or grievances: Avoid including negative feedback about the job, team, or company, as this can harm your professional reputation and put a strain on your remaining workdays.
Two Weeks Notice Template
Here are two sample two weeks’ notice documents you can use to submit your resignation, whether you prefer a formal printed letter or a professional email. These examples can be adjusted to suit your specific situation while ensuring your resignation remains clear and professional.
Formal printed letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Working Day, two weeks from today].
I want to express my gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had during my time at [Company Name]. I truly appreciate the support and guidance from you and my colleagues, which have contributed significantly to my professional growth.
To ensure a smooth transition, I am happy to assist with training my replacement or handing over my responsibilities. Please let me know how I can help during this period.
Thank you again for everything, and I hope to stay in touch. You can reach me at [Your Email Address] or [Your Phone Number].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Casual but professional email
Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to let you know that I am resigning from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last working day will be [Last Working Day, two weeks from today].
I want to thank you for the opportunity to work with such a fantastic team. My time here has been incredibly valuable, and I’ve learned so much from my role and colleagues.
I’m happy to help with the transition, whether it’s training my replacement or organizing my current projects. Please let me know how I can assist.
Thanks again for your support, and I wish [Company Name] continued success. You can reach me at [Your Email Address] if needed.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Do you need to give a reason for quitting?
You’re not obligated to explain why you’re leaving in your two weeks’ notice. A simple and professional statement of resignation is often enough.
However, if you feel comfortable or think it would be beneficial to share your reasons, detail a brief, positive explanation to provide context.
Here are two examples of how you could tactfully include a reason:
Resignation with gratitude:
"My decision to leave was not an easy one, as I truly value the opportunities I’ve had at [Company Name]. However, I believe it’s the right time for me to pursue new challenges and growth."
Resignation due to a better opportunity:
"I am excited to share that I have accepted another opportunity that aligns with my career goals. This decision is not a reflection on my experience here, as I am immensely grateful for the guidance and growth I’ve gained during my time at [Company Name]."
Resignation for personal reasons:
"After much consideration, I’ve decided to step away from my role at [Company Name] due to personal reasons. I deeply value the opportunities I’ve had here and appreciate the support from my colleagues and leadership during my time in this position."
If you prefer to keep things simple, it’s perfectly acceptable to leave out the reason altogether. Focus on expressing appreciation and keeping the tone professional to leave on good terms.
PRO TIP
You’re not the only one. It’s normal to feel a combination of relief, guilt, or nostalgia during this time—acknowledge these feelings and focus on the next step in your professional journey. Consider staying connected with your ex-team members–through LinkedIn or other channels. For all you know, your paths might meet again in the future.
FAQs About Giving Your Two Weeks’ Notice
Here are answers to some common questions about giving your two weeks’ notice to help you navigate the process with confidence.
What if my employer asks me to leave immediately?
While most companies honor the two weeks, some may ask you to leave immediately, especially in C-level or executive positions. Be prepared for this possibility by ensuring you’ve secured your next steps and wrapping up your responsibilities as soon as possible.
Can I rescind a two weeks’ notice?
It’s possible to take back a notice, but it depends on your employer’s willingness. If you decide to stay, approach the conversation respectfully and acknowledge that the decision is ultimately up to them.
Is it okay to send a resignation email instead of a printed letter?
Yes, an email is perfectly acceptable, especially in remote or modern workplaces. Just make sure it’s professional, clear, and includes all the key elements of a resignation letter.
What if I’m quitting without another offer?
If you’re leaving without a job lined up, ensure you have a financial safety net and a plan for what’s next. Communicate your resignation professionally and avoid feeling obligated to explain your reasons in detail.
Conclusion
Submitting your two weeks’ notice is an essential step in leaving a job professionally and respectfully. By following the tips we outlined in this guide, you can maintain relationships, uphold your reputation, and set the stage for future career opportunities.
Make one that's truly you.
