How to Write a Professional Resignation Letter (With 2-Week Notice Templates)
Learn how to write a respectful and effective resignation letter that leaves a positive last impression, plus 2-week notice templates and examples.
How to Write a Professional Resignation Letter (With 2-Week Notice Templates)
Direct Answer: A resignation letter should clearly state your intent to leave, include your final working day, express gratitude, and offer transition help — all in a brief, professional tone. Giving two weeks’ notice helps maintain relationships, ensures workflow continuity, and protects your professional reputation.
Key Points
- Always include resignation statement, final day, gratitude, and transition offer.
- Keep it under one page — brevity signals clarity and professionalism.
- Use a respectful tone; avoid complaints or negative remarks.
- Giving proper notice benefits both you and your employer.
- Templates make it easier to write in a stressful moment.
Why This Matters
A resignation letter is more than a formality — it’s your final professional impression. Done well, it smooths the transition, preserves relationships, and strengthens your network for future opportunities.
“Leaving well is just as important as starting strong — your last impression can follow you for years.”
Framework: The 5 Elements of a Strong Resignation Letter
1. Clear Intent to Resign
State plainly that you are resigning from your role.
Example: “I’m writing to officially resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective two weeks from today.”
2. Final Working Day
Give the exact date of your last day.
Example: “My last day will be [Date], fulfilling the two-week notice period.”
3. Gratitude
Thank your employer for the opportunities, mentorship, or experiences you’ve gained.
Example: “I’m grateful for the professional growth and support I’ve received.”
4. Transition Assistance
Offer to help train your replacement or wrap up projects.
Example: “I’ll ensure all current projects are handed over smoothly before my departure.”
5. Professional Closing
End with respect and openness to future contact.
Example: “Thank you again for the opportunity. I hope our paths cross again.”
Step-by-Step: Writing Your Resignation Letter
- Open professionally — Address your manager by name.
- State your resignation — Be direct, no vague language.
- Add your final day — Keeps everyone aligned on timelines.
- Express gratitude — Mention specific positive experiences.
- Offer transition help — Suggest knowledge transfer or training.
- Close respectfully — Leave the door open for future contact.
Checklists
Do This
- Give at least two weeks’ notice.
- Keep the tone positive or neutral.
- Proofread for clarity and grammar.
Avoid This
- Criticizing the company or coworkers.
- Overexplaining why you’re leaving.
- Using casual or slang language.
Measure This
- One page or less.
- Includes all five key elements.
- Leaves employer clear on next steps.
Examples & Templates
Simple 2-Week Notice Template
FAQs
Can a 2-week notice letter be an email?
Yes. Email is acceptable in many workplaces, but follow your company's policy. Keep it professional: clear subject line, resignation statement, last working day, gratitude, and transition offer.
What not to say in a resignation letter?
Avoid negative feedback, personal grievances, too much detail about your next job, counteroffer requests, and unprofessional language.
What happens if I don't give two weeks' notice?
You risk damaging your reputation, straining your team, and losing pay or benefits. It may also make you ineligible for rehire.
Should I explain why I’m leaving?
It’s optional. Keep explanations brief and professional if you choose to include one.
How long should a resignation letter be?
One page or less. State your intent, last day, gratitude, and transition offer in concise language.
