When you start working, you never expect to quit your job in a year or two. You’ll probably stay with the company until you’re old and gray. While this is a common assumption, the real world isn’t always that predictable. You sometimes need to end your employment with a company sooner than expected.
Perhaps you can no longer stand your boss, or maybe you weren’t happy at work for other reasons. Whatever the reason, there will come a time when it makes sense for you to terminate your contract and find new work elsewhere.
With that said, if circumstances change and you feel as if quitting your job needs to happen sooner rather than later, there are some things you need to know. That begins with how to write a two week notice. Let’s discuss how to get that done and leave your job effectively before moving on to another opportunity.
What is two weeks’ notice?
If you’re currently working, you’ve probably heard the phrase “two weeks’ notice.” In the world of work, this is the amount of time you need to give your employer before you decide to quit your job. While the phrase two weeks’ notice is standard, there are different amounts of time you may have to give your employer depending on your type of employment. This is because the amount of time you give your employer before quitting your job is referred to as the “notice period.”
Why should you give a two week notice?
You show that you’re responsible when you give your employer two weeks’ notice. You’re not simply quitting your job without any notice or warning. Instead, you’re giving your employer enough time to find a replacement and make other necessary adjustments so the business can continue operating. There are other reasons why you should give two weeks’ notice.
For example, giving two weeks’ notice can help your employer out by allowing you to train the person taking your role. This means that the transition process will be easier for everyone involved. Moreover, when you give two weeks’ notice and leave your job on good terms, you increase your chances of getting positive references from your previous employer. This can help you find new jobs more efficiently and more quickly once you decide to start looking.
How to give a two week notice
Now that you understand why you should give two weeks’ notice before leaving a company, let’s get into the how. While it might sound like a straightforward process, there are some techniques you can implement to make it smoother. Bearing these six tips in mind, you can professionally communicate your decision to leave in a way that is the least disruptive to you and your employer.
Be upfront and honest
There’s no point in getting to the end of your notice period and leaving a company in a state of limbo. Be upfront with your supervisor about your plans and explain any plans for your future employment. If there are any concerns that you have been addressing and those should be addressed, be open to the idea of discussing the future with your supervisor.
You should also receive information about your benefits, including stock options, extended medical coverage, or other benefits due at the end of your notice period.
You will likely be busy with your everyday work and preparing for your next move during your notice period. Being professional and realistic about how much work you can take on is essential. Keeping busy, but not too busy, will help to ease the stress of this period.
Communicate your decision well in advance
Communication is critical when it comes to leaving a company. Let your manager know early on when you will leave and let them understand how this impacts your work. Be transparent with your manager and be honest about any issues you might face during your remaining time on the job. Having this conversation can help you deal with any problems that may arise while you leave and could also benefit your replacement.
Break the news in person
Please don’t leave your manager guessing what is happening in your world. Scheduling an in-person meeting will go a long way and impact how things play out for the rest of your tenure with the company. Be direct and be open. Telling your direct leader face to face shows you have tremendous respect for them and appreciate that you were given a chance to be a part of their team.
Tell your boss before others
Don’t be afraid to let your boss know well in advance when you will be leaving. Although you may have made many friends on the job, your manager should not hear the news from them before they hear it from you. Explain why you are making a move and be as open as possible about any problems you may face. Managers want to see employees leave on good terms. They want to know if any obstacles in your performance or working environment may make it challenging to finish your contract. Communicating with your manager and company about your departure will make things easier for everyone involved.
Take time to wrap up your work
Don’t rush through any work that you have left to do. As much as you might want to leave on a high note, don’t leave any tasks uncompleted. If there are any projects that you have been working on, make sure to let your manager know what you have been doing. Also, let them know if there are any tasks or projects that you need help with while you are leaving.
Be respectful and show gratitude
Don’t rush through your final few weeks at the company with anger or resentment. You may want to leave on a sour note but don’t. Show gratitude towards your employer before you leave. Take the time to let everyone know how much you appreciate them, And, of course, make sure to finish up all of your tasks before you leave the office for the last time. This will ensure that your coworkers don’t have to pick up the slack when you’re gone, leaving them with a positive impression of you when you’re long gone.
How to write a two week notice
Your resignation letter is the official document that lets your employer know you are ready to move on.
First, be professional and polite. This is your last interaction with your employer, so you want to ensure that it’s positive.
Second, you must let your employer know when you will leave. Ensure that your two-week notice includes the date you plan to exit the company. This can be helpful if your company is large and has hiring processes that take a while. It also lets your employer know when they need to start looking for a replacement.
Third, you may also wish to explain why you’re leaving, especially if you’re leaving for negative reasons.
Finally, you want to thank your employer for everything they’ve done for you. Make sure to let them know you are grateful for the chance to work with them and that you wish them the best in the future. Doing so can help you maintain positive references and make you seem more positive.
Do you have to give two weeks’ notice?
This comes down to your type of employment. Full-time employees are generally expected to give two weeks’ notice. On the other hand, contract workers are not required to give any notice whatsoever.
You can ask your human resources department if you’re unsure whether you’re a full-time employee or a contract worker. Alternatively, you can ask your supervisor or your company’s management team.
Tips for writing a two weeks’ notice letter
If at all possible, you want to put your notice in writing. When you cannot perform a termination in person, via telephone, or video conference, you may send an email. Ensure the subject line of your email is clear, the body of your message is brief and positive, and your notice is attached. Here is a template to help you create your email:
Customize each of the templates listed below with the following details:
- Your name, address, contact information, and email
- Your employer’s contact information
- Greeting
- Statement and reason(s) for your resignation
- Thank you
- Last day of work
- Your signature
The importance of your final exit interview
Your final exit interview will be your last chance to leave a positive and lasting impression on your employer. You’ll have the opportunity to talk about why you chose to leave the company. This is your chance to be as truthful as possible and to leave the company in a good light. As such, you should use your exit interview as an opportunity to be as honest and positive as possible. If you have a good rapport with your supervisor, they might be willing to get you a reference before you leave.
Conclusion
Few things are more awkward than telling your boss that you are leaving. It can be incredibly uncomfortable when there is a relationship, or strong ties, between you and your boss. Make sure to break the news in person or advance, and let your boss know about any issues you may face. Be respectful and show gratitude towards your manager, and use these tips to break the news in the least disruptive way possible.
When you decide to quit your job, it is important to understand that you are not leaving your employer or colleagues without notice. You can make this an easy transition for everyone involved by providing two weeks’ notice; with this in mind when it comes time to write your resignation letter and provide two weeks’ notice, ensure that you are honest, positive, and professional. Of course, if you need help along your career search, we are here to help!
