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How to write a perfect 2-week notice letter [+ Templates]
So, first things first, congrats!
A resignation doesn’t have to be awkward, stiff, or stuffed with corporate fluff. In fact, a great 2-week notice letter can absolutely strike the perfect balance between professional and personal — kind of like sending a formal “it’s not you, it’s me” message with just enough heart to leave things on good terms.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything: what a 2-week notice letter actually is, when to give one (and when not to), how to write it like a pro. And yes, we’ve got templates for every vibe.
📝 Free download: Career Action Plan Tracker
Since you’re about to quit your job and all… you might find this free job application tracker handy! Our Career Action Plan helps you apply and analyze the efficacy of your application pitch. It has all the data fields you need, broken down into all the job stages, from pre-interview, to various interview rounds, to negotiation, and finally to a successful career transition.
What is a 2-week notice letter?
Also…do these things even matter anymore?
Short answer? Yes!
Let’s start with the basics. A 2-week notice letter is a formal way of saying, “Hey, I’m out, but I’m giving you a heads-up so we can part ways like adults.”
It’s a short, professional letter (or email — this isn’t 1997) that lets your employer know you’re resigning from your position and that your last day will be in two weeks. That’s it. That’s the whole deal. But despite its simplicity, it’s one of the most important career moves you can make.
Why? Because how you leave a job can be just as important as how you start one.
A well-written 2-week notice letter:
- Keeps your relationships intact (you never know when you’ll need a reference or even want to boomerang back).
- Shows professionalism, maturity, and respect.
- Gives your team time to plan, delegate, and maybe even throw you a goodbye bagel brunch. (fingers crossed!)
And while some folks might think a quick Slack message or vanishing act is enough, trust us, taking the time to write a proper 2-week notice letter still matters. It’s a small effort that leaves a lasting impression.
Think of it as the career equivalent of cleaning out your fridge before you move. You could just leave the mystery Tupperware behind, but it’s not the legacy you want.
When (and when not) to give your 2-weeks notice
So, you’re ready to peace out, but when’s the right time to drop your 2 week notice letter? Spoiler: not mid-meeting, not during your company’s biggest product launch, and definitely not scribbled on a sticky note left on your boss’s desk.
(Yes, that’s happened. No, we don’t recommend it.)
✅ When you should give a 2-week notice letter:
Give your two weeks notice when:
- You’ve accepted a new job. Congrats! Time to make your exit official.
- You’re switching industries, going back to school, or launching your side hustle. (Homemade candle-making empire? We love that for you.)
- You need a break for your mental health or personal reasons. Totally valid, and still worth giving notice if you can.
- You’re just…done. Burnout is real, and you don’t owe anyone an eternal career.
Even if your current role isn’t exactly giving you life, offering notice is still a classy move. It lets your team plan, shows integrity, and keeps your professional reputation intact, which is important because LinkedIn is basically high school, and people talk.
🚩 When you might not need to give two full weeks:
Some jobs and situations are the exception to the rule, including:
- Your workplace is toxic or unsafe. If your mental or physical health is on the line, you don’t need to stick around out of obligation. Your well-being > corporate etiquette.
- You’re a contractor or freelancer. Your contract might have different terms or none at all. (Still worth communicating clearly, though!)
- You’re at-will and have no obligation. Technically, many U.S. roles are “at-will,” which means you can leave at any time, but that doesn’t mean ghosting is the best look or the right professional move.
If you’re unsure, go with your gut (and your contract). But when in doubt, leaving with professionalism is almost never the wrong move.
How to write a 2-week notice letter
Thankfully, writing a 2-week notice letter isn’t like writing your college thesis. No one’s grading you, and you don’t need footnotes or fancy words. In fact, the best letters are short, simple, and sound like an actual human wrote them.
Follow this basic structure:
1. Greeting
Keep it straightforward: “Dear [Manager’s Name]” or just “Hi [Name]” if you’re on friendly terms. No need for “To whom it may concern.”
2. Your resignation statement
Example: “I’m writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Role] at [Company Name], with my last day being [Date, typically two weeks from the day you send it].”
That’s it! Clear, calm, and no dramatic pauses.
3. A thank you (even if it’s polite fiction)
You don’t have to go overboard here. A simple “Thank you for the opportunity to grow and learn over the past [X time]” gets the job done. If you genuinely loved the job? Say so. If not… keep it classy and vague.
4. Transition support
Offer to help make the handoff smooth. Something like: “I’m happy to help with the transition through the next two weeks and prepare for whomever takes over my responsibilities.” This makes you look thoughtful and buys you some goodwill for the exit.
5. Your closing line
Go with “Sincerely,” “Best,” or even “Warmly” — whatever fits your usual tone. Just maybe skip “Peace out” (unless that genuinely matches your company culture).
Here are a few pro tips:
- Keep it short. Aim for 1-2 paragraphs. You’re not writing a memoir; you’re just officially communicating your decision.
- Don’t vent. No matter how tempting it is to unload your boss’s worst micromanaging hits, save it for your group chat, an exit interview, or therapist.
- Match your tone to your relationship. If you’ve been formal, stay formal. If your Slack convos were mostly memes, it’s okay to be a little warmer or casual.
- Spellcheck. Nothing says, “I’ve mentally checked out” like a typo in your goodbye.
Your goal is to be honest, professional, and respectful, even if your inner voice is screaming, “I’M FREE!” This letter is your last impression. Make it a good one.
Two weeks notice letter template
Okay, now that you know what goes into a solid 2-week notice letter, let’s make your life even easier: just copy, paste, tweak, and hit send (after a quick proofread, of course).
Choose from the templates below:
🧑💼 The straight shooter
Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to formally resign from my role as [Your Position] at [Company Name], effective two weeks from today. My last working day will be [Date].
I appreciate the opportunities I’ve had to grow here and wish you and the team continued success.
Please let me know how I can support the transition process.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
🌈 The grateful quitter
Subject: Thank You + My Resignation
Hi [Manager’s Name],
This wasn’t an easy decision, but I’m officially submitting my 2 week notice. My last day will be [Date].
I’m incredibly grateful for the support, mentorship, and opportunities I’ve had during my time at [Company Name]. I’ve learned so much and truly enjoyed working with such a fantastic team.
I’ll do everything I can to make the transition as smooth as possible. Let me know how I can help.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
🧘 The burnt-out (but still polite) exit
Subject: 2-Week Notice Letter
Hey [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to formally submit my 2 week notice of resignation from my role at [Company Name], with my final day being [Date].
This decision comes after careful consideration and reflects my need to prioritize rest and reset after a demanding period. I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished and grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow here.
I’m committed to supporting the transition over the next two weeks and ensuring a smooth handoff of my responsibilities.
Thank you again for your leadership and support.
Thanks again,
[Your Name]
📱 The casual startup/ Slack culture exit
Subject: Stepping Away – [Your Name]
Hey [Manager’s First Name],
Just wanted to give you a heads-up that I’m officially putting in my 2-week notice. My last day will be [Date].
This role has taught me a lot, and I’ve genuinely enjoyed collaborating with you and the team. I’m excited about what’s next, but I’ll definitely miss our [inside joke/ Slack banter/ favorite snack drawer].
I’ll make sure everything is documented and ready to hand off before I go.
Cheers,
[Your Name]
🎤 The “peace out, but professionally” vibe
Subject: My Official 2-Week Notice Letter
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this letter as my formal 2-week notice. My last day with [Company Name] will be [Date].
I’ve accepted a new opportunity that aligns closely with my long-term career goals, and while I’m excited about this next chapter, I want to express my appreciation for the time I’ve spent here.
Thank you for everything. I’m committed to making this a smooth transition.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Each 2-week notice letter above gives you a solid starting point, but feel free to make it your own. You’re the one quitting, after all. You get to decide the tone.
What to do after you send your 2-week notice letter
You’ve sent the email… maybe your hands were a little sweaty. Maybe you stared at the “Send” button for a full minute before finally clicking it. Either way, it’s done! You’re officially in your two-week countdown.
Now what?
Here’s how to make the most of your final days and leave on a high note:
- Keep showing up: We know, mentally, you’ve already started your new gig (or vacation, or nap). But physically, you’re still on the team. Show up on time, stay engaged, and try not to start coasting the moment you hit “send.”
- Document your work: Your future self (and your coworkers) will thank you. Create a handoff doc with key projects, deadlines, login info (securely shared!), and any tips that might help the next person avoid chaos. Think of it as leaving behind a trail of breadcrumbs, minus the stress.
- Offer to train your replacement: If someone’s stepping into your role or just taking your responsibilities temporarily, offer to help with training or shadowing. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way, and it shows you’re leaving with integrity (and not going scorched-earth).
- Communicate your plan: Have a quick chat with your manager about how you’ll wrap things up. Set realistic expectations for what you can complete in two weeks and what you’ll hand off. Boundaries + transparency = a smoother goodbye for everyone.
- Say goodbye like a pro: Don’t just ghost your coworkers. Send a short farewell note, drop a message in Slack, or schedule a quick goodbye call. Whether you loved your team or merely tolerated their snack-stealing ways, it’s worth closing things out on a kind and professional note.
- Celebrate yourself: Resigning is a big step! It means you’re advocating for your growth, your goals, or your peace, and that deserves a little recognition. So, take a deep breath, grab your favorite treat, and start getting excited about what’s next.
Remember: A 2-week notice letter is just one part of your professional story. How you leave a job says a lot about you — and doing it with clarity, grace, and a little confidence sets you up for whatever’s coming next.
Cheers to the next chapter! 🎉
Offer letter template: Follow this format & best practices
This might seem like the easy part. After all, you’re giving someone good news! But the offer letter isn’t just a formality. It’s your first official handshake with your future employee — a document that sets expectations, outlines the basics, and (hopefully) answers some of the questions your candidate hasn’t even asked yet.
A solid offer letter format saves everyone time, builds trust, and helps avoid confusion later. Get it right, and you’re off to a great start. Miss the mark, and you might cause delays…or worse, second thoughts.
In this guide, we’ll break down what an offer letter is, what it should include, and exactly how to write one. We’ve even included a plug-and-play offer letter template you can copy, paste, and customize. Because your time is better spent onboarding top talent, not reinventing the wheel.
What is an offer letter (and why does it matter)
An offer letter is a written document you send to a candidate when you’re ready to hire them. It spells out the basics of the job — things like the role, pay, start date, and where to sign on the dotted line. It’s not as detailed (or legally binding) as an employment contract, but it’s still important.
Think of it as the formal bridge between “We want to hire you” and “Welcome aboard.”
A clear, well-written offer letter does a few things:
- It confirms the details both sides agree to.
- It sets expectations from day one.
- It helps avoid future miscommunications about the role, pay, or benefits.
It also gives your new hire a chance to say yes with confidence or ask the right questions before they commit. And if you’ve ever had to walk back a verbal agreement because something didn’t line up, you already know how helpful that can be.
Read this next: 12 things you need for a positive candidate experience
What to include in your offer letter format
Before you start writing, it helps to know what to actually include in an offer letter format. And no, this isn’t the time to get poetic. Think: specific, clear, and complete.
Here’s what to include, line by line:
1. Job title and start date: State the exact position being offered and when you expect them to start.
📌 Example: “We’re pleased to offer you the full-time role of Software Engineer, starting June 3, 2025.”
2. Compensation details: Include the salary (or hourly rate), how often it’s paid (weekly, biweekly, monthly), and if bonuses or commissions are part of the package.
📌 Example: “Your starting salary will be $95,000 per year, paid biweekly.”
3. Employment type and schedule: Is this full-time or part-time? Exempt or non-exempt? Hybrid, remote, or on-site? Be specific.
📌 Example: “This is a full-time, exempt position based in our New York office, with a hybrid work schedule (3 days in office, 2 remote).”
4. Reporting structure: Let them know who they’ll be reporting to and the person’s title.
📌 Example: “You’ll report to Jane Smith, Director of Engineering.”
5. Benefits overview: You don’t have to list every single perk, but hit the big ones — health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, etc.
📌 Example: “You’ll be eligible for our standard benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) with company match; and 15 paid vacation days per year.”
6. Contingencies: If the offer depends on things like background checks, reference checks, or proof of work eligibility, this is where to say it.
📌 Example: “This offer is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and verification of employment eligibility.”
7. At-will employment clause (if applicable): This covers the legal stuff. In many U.S. states, employment is “at will,” meaning either party can end the relationship at any time for (almost) any reason.
📌 Example: “This letter is not a contract. Your employment will be at-will, meaning either you or the company may terminate it at any time, with or without cause or notice.”
8. Offer expiration date: You don’t want your offer hanging out in the void. Set a deadline.
📌 Example: “Please sign and return this letter by Friday, April 11, 2025.”
9. Signature fields: Include a place for the candidate to sign and date the offer. Add one for your company representative, too. Paper trail = good idea.
Read this next: Building a stellar onboarding checklist
Offer letter template (copy + paste)
Below is a simple, customizable offer letter template you can use for most full-time roles. Just swap out the placeholders for your details, and you're good to go!
📎 Pro tip: Want your offer letter to look polished, too? We love Canva’s job offer templates to design a clean, professional-looking document — no design degree required.
Subject: Offer of Employment from [Company Name]
Hi [Candidate Name],
We’re excited to offer you the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. We’ve enjoyed getting to know you throughout the interview process, and we’re confident that you’ll bring great value to our team.
This is a [full-time/part-time], [exempt/non-exempt] position based in [location or “remote”], with a scheduled start date of [Start Date]. In this role, you’ll report to [Manager Name, Title].
Your starting salary will be [$XX,XXX] per year, paid [biweekly/monthly]. You’ll also be eligible for [bonuses, stock options, or “additional compensation,” if applicable].
As a member of our team, you’ll have access to a range of benefits, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) plan with company match
- [Number] paid vacation days per year
- [Any other relevant perks like wellness stipends, professional development budgets, etc.]
This offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a [background check/reference check/work eligibility verification, etc.]. Please note that your employment with [Company Name] is at-will, meaning either you or the company may terminate the relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice.
To accept this offer, please sign and return this letter by [Date]. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to [Contact Person’s Name + Email/Phone].
We’re looking forward to officially welcoming you to the team!
Warmly,
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Contact Info]
Read this next: New course on inclusive onboarding
Best practices for writing an offer letter
Writing a solid offer letter sets the tone for a new chapter for the candidate and your team, so make sure you take the time to proofread, customize, and craft a letter that feels genuine to your company. These best practices will help you strike the right balance between professional and human.
1️⃣ Be clear and specific
Skip the vague language. This isn’t the place for “competitive salary” or “some travel required.” If it’s truly negotiable, say that. If it’s fixed, be direct. You want the candidate to sign (or pass, potentially) with zero confusion about what’s being offered.
2️⃣ Get names and titles right
Double-check how your candidate spells their name. Get their job title right. You don’t want the first official document they receive to have a typo in it; that’s a fast track to second thoughts.
3️⃣ Match the tone to your company culture
If your company leans formal; use more polished language. If you’re on the casual side; keep the tone relaxed (but still clear). Think of the offer letter as the written version of your company handshake, i.e. make sure it feels like you and your company culture.
4️⃣ Avoid legal jargon unless you need it
Unless your legal team requires it, there’s no need to stuff the letter with clauses no one reads. Stick to plain English where possible. If something is legally required (like an at-will clause), include it clearly and simply.
5️⃣ Leave room for questions
Even the clearest letter might raise a few eyebrows. Give the candidate a point of contact they can reach out to with questions — preferably a human, not a generic inbox.
6. Add a personal touch
This doesn’t mean writing a novel. A short, thoughtful line like “We’re excited about the perspective you’ll bring” or “The team’s already looking forward to working with you” goes a long way.
7️⃣ Proofread. Then proofread again.
This one’s boring but important. A single mistake (especially around pay, start date, or title) can undermine your credibility. Run it through spell check. Then have a real person look it over.
Now that you understand what makes a great cover letter, we’ll bet you’re curious what doesn’t work. Let’s talk about the red flags and easy-to-miss mistakes in the next section.
Read this next: 18 new hire onboarding survey questions to improve retention
What not to do in an offer letter
An offer letter doesn’t need to be perfect, but there are a few landmines you’ll want to sidestep. Here’s what to avoid:
❌ Don’t get vague about pay
“We offer a competitive salary” sounds like code for “We’re still figuring it out.” Be direct. Say how much, how often, and when they’ll get paid. People notice the details, especially when those details impact their rent.
❌ Don’t forget the deadline
Leaving the offer open-ended can lead to ghosting, delays, or confusion. A simple “Please respond by [date]” creates structure and gives the candidate a clear timeline to follow.
❌ Don’t misspell the candidate’s name
It happens more often than you’d think. Nothing says “we don’t really care” quite like getting someone’s name wrong on the document that’s supposed to make them feel wanted.
❌ Don’t use language you can’t back up
Avoid phrases like “permanent position” or “guaranteed bonuses” unless your legal team signs off on it. If you’re not 100% sure something is set in stone, leave some wiggle room or explain the conditions.
❌ Don’t get too casual
Sure, you want to sound friendly, but don’t let it turn into a text message. “Hey! So stoked you’re joining us 🎉” is great for Slack. Not so much for a formal document outlining employment terms.
❌ Don’t skip the fine print
Even if it’s short, your letter should still include essentials like the job title, compensation, start date, and any contingencies. Forgetting those pieces can cause issues down the road…or at least a bunch of follow-up emails.
❌ Don’t use a one-size-fits-all template
You can start with a standard format (like the one we shared above), but always tailor it. A letter for a remote contractor will look different than one for an in-office executive. Context matters.
A little attention to detail goes a long way. Skip these mistakes, and your offer letter will do what it’s meant to do: help your future hire say “yes” with confidence.
The bottom line on offer letters
An offer letter might seem like a small step in the hiring process, but it carries weight. The right offer letter can set the tone, answer questions before they’re asked, and make your new hire feel like they’ve made the right call.
Keep it clear. Keep it human. Say what you mean, double-check the details, and don’t overcomplicate it.
Looking to improve more than just your offer letters? PowerToFly helps companies find top talent, streamline hiring, and build high-performing teams — from first outreach to final offer. Schedule your free demo today.
