This article is the second article on the series resignation & two weeks notice letter.
It provides the main points to consider before writing the letter of resignation.
Refer also to – Two Weeks Notice Letter Examples.
How to Give Two weeks Notice for Resignation in a Letter
Here are our tips:
The purpose of this letter?
In general, this letter is a notice letter that is given by either the company to the employee or vice versa when one of the two parties wishes to end their professional relationship in a cordial manner.
The notice letter is quite important, because it basically designs out the way in which the employee can depart from the company in an easy and hassle free manner. This two weeks notice, or any other time period, based on contractual agreement or the company policy for termination, is also important because it lays out the final communication between the company and the employee.
It also informs the company of any job aspects that one is liable to if wishes to leave without any misinterpretations.
Express Regret:
An employee must always express regret that s/he is leaving the current position. Even if you have had some differences with your superiors or with the management, you should remember that the professional relationship with the company is now coming to an end and it is the right time for some good networking – therefore, don’t burn the bridges because you might need reference letters from your superiors.
Giving two weeks notice – The Time Frame:
One of the first aspects that you should look at is the timeframe that the two weeks notice letter provides. Generally, when a company wishes to lay off an individual, they offer two weeks to complete current assignments and also start looking for another job. Some companies may offer different time periods.
The same goes when you announce your resignation – you have to give two weeks notice, or more weeks – check the termination policy of your company and your employment contract.
Therefore, ensure that the time frame you will notice matches the right time frame and also cross check your state’s employment rights and laws for resignations and notice period.
Handover Requirements:
Another aspect that the employee should keep in mind is that s/he should take the responsibility of transferring the work that he leaves during the two weeks period.
You should ensure that whatever projects and assignments you are working will be completed, or handed over to the immediate superior in such a flawless manner that the company will not be hassled to complete these projects.
The letter of two weeks notice will therefore state your willingness to the handover sequence. A perfect and complete handover is very necessary if you wish to resign with dignity and with no bad feelings.
Once sending the two-week notice period letter, it will be wise for you to ensure making this job transition easier for the employer. The company can and may withhold the salary and final accounts, if you do not deliver your job duties as required. Therefore, make sure to ask about the pending assignments, equipment, documents and tools that the employer expect from you to handover before quitting.
More tips:
This resignation letter is no place for expressing emotions and giving specific reasons for leaving. Make sure to hand deliver the letter, in person and to your superior. If they ask, you may tell your employer the reasons, but do it verbally. However, do not start the discussion and be tactful when telling reasons. Moreover, try to avoid office gossips, talking with co-workers about your decision and your future plans. Remember that this letter is a document that can serve against you in court.
Writing the two weeks notice letter
Basically, the two weeks notice letter may contain 4 short paragraphs:
1. Your announcement of resignation.
2. The effective date of your resignation.
3. Positive statements of the good experience working for your current company.
4. You’re ready for a smooth transfer of your responsibilities and current projects.
5. Thank again.
Further reading: Examples of Two Weeks Notice Letter.
