How to write a resignation letter with two weeks' notice

There may be many reasons why you want to leave your job. Whatever the reason may be, it's important to leave on a good note. Saying goodbye the right way is important. When people leave their jobs, they usually give at least two weeks' notice, but in Singapore, the notice period is a little more nuanced. 

Giving two weeks' notice is like giving a heads-up to your team. It helps them plan and make adjustments so that work can continue smoothly even after you're gone. Writing a letter to let your employer know you're leaving is part of this process. In this guide, we'll talk about how to write a polite and professional letter when you're leaving your job. Here's what we'll cover in this guide:  

• What is a two-week notice letter? 
• When to give two weeks' notice 
• Tips for writing a resignation letter with two weeks' notice 
• Two weeks' notice letter example 
• Two weeks' notice best practices 
• Conclusion 
• FAQs 

What is a two-week notice letter? 

A two-week notice letter is a formal document you give to your employer when you decide to leave your job. It's a way of letting them know about your decision in advance, typically two weeks before your last workday. One of the main reasons for giving a two-week notice is to keep things on a positive note with your boss and co-workers. This letter is an important part of the resignation process and is a standard practice across industries. 

When to give two weeks' notice 

It's polite to tell your employer ahead of time that you're leaving your job. It gives them enough time to find someone new or make changes. Giving proper notice lets you leave on good terms. This can help you get good references and make connections in the future. 

Timing your resignation letters 

When you choose to quit your job, it's common practice to tell your employer the date you plan to leave. Usually, your employment contract specifies the minimum notice period. If your employment contract doesn't specify the notice period, the notice period will depend on your length of service. According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), here's the notice period you need to give: 

Length of service	Notice period
Less than 26 weeks	1 day
26 weeks to less than 2 years	1 week
2 years to less than 5 years	2 weeks
5 years or more	4 weeks

Why give a two-week notice? 

There are several reasons why giving a two-week notice is a standard and respectful practice: 

• Creates a smooth transition: Offering this amount of time allows your employer to cover your absence. This ensures a seamless handover for everyone involved. 
• Gives time to hire: It gives your employer time to find a replacement or reassign your tasks to other employees. This minimises disruptions to the workflow. 
• Shows professionalism and respect: Giving formal notification is a professional and respectful thing to do. It leaves a good impression on your company and co-workers even as you leave. 

What if you can't give the required notice period? 

Sometimes, your circumstances may not allow a longer notice period. In such cases, consider the following options: 

• Negotiate a shorter notice period: Discuss with your employer if it's possible to negotiate a shorter notice period based on the circumstances. Share your reasons honestly and work together to find a reasonable solution. 
• Offer additional support: Even if you can't provide the full notice period, express your willingness to assist during the transition. Offer to train your replacement, document your tasks, or provide any necessary information to facilitate the handover. 
• Stay flexible: Be flexible with your departure date if possible. Consider staying a bit longer than you initially planned if it helps your employer manage the transition more effectively. 
• Provide remote support: If feasible, offer to provide remote support after your separation. This can be particularly helpful in roles where ongoing assistance may be necessary. 
• Refer to a temporary replacement: If time is tight, you can propose that you find a temporary replacement or help locate interim support. This can fill the gap until the company finds a permanent solution. 

Considering alternative solutions during challenging times can contribute to a more positive and professional departure from your current job. 

Tips for writing a resignation letter with two weeks' notice 

When crafting your formal resignation letter with a two-week notice, consider the following tips to ensure professional and positive communication: 

• Include the essentials: When you write a resignation letter with a two-week notice, be clear. Address the resignation letter to the person you're giving it to (mentioning their name and position), clearly say you're quitting, and mention the date you're leaving. 
• Maintain positivity: Keep your resignation letter positive and thankful by talking about the good parts of your experience at the company. Avoid saying anything negative or critical. 
• Express gratitude: Thank the company for the chances and experiences you had, and mention that you're ready to help with the transition as you leave. 
• Keep it brief: Your resignation letter will be more effective if it's concise and to the point. Keep it brief and focused without lengthy explanations so it's readable and understandable. 
• Proofread: Before finalising your resignation letter, proofread it thoroughly to ensure there are no grammatical errors or typos. A well-written and error-free resignation letter reflects professionalism. 
• Use a formal closing: Conclude your resignation letter by using a closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards." Sign the letter by hand if you're submitting a hard copy, or use a digital signature if you're sending it electronically. 

By following these tips, you can create a resignation letter that conveys your decision with clarity, gratitude, and professionalism. This can help you make a positive and respectful move from your current position. 

Two weeks' notice letter example 

Here's a two-week resignation notice template to help get you started: 

[Your Name] 

[Your Home Address] 

[Your Email Address] 

[Date] 

[Recipient's Name] 

[Company Name] 

[Company Address] 

Dear [Recipient's Name], 

Please accept this letter of resignation from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], effective two weeks from today, [Last Working Day]. 
I am writing to inform you that I have decided to pursue further education to advance my career in [Field/Area]. 

I have greatly appreciated the opportunities for personal and professional growth during my time at [Company Name]. I am thankful for the support and mentorship that you and the entire team have provided. 

I am committed to ensuring a streamlined transition during my separation. I am more than willing to assist in training a replacement or document any necessary processes to facilitate the handover of my responsibilities. 

I am grateful for the positive experiences and valuable instruction during my tenure at [Company Name]. I have enjoyed working with the team and am proud of the accomplishments we have achieved together. 

Thank you for understanding. I wish the company continued success, and I hope our paths cross again. 

Sincerely, 

[Your Name] 

[Your Signature if submitting a hard copy] 

Feel free to customise this resignation letter template to fit your specific situation. Ensure that you include the relevant details in your resignation letter, such as your name, the date of resignation, and the specific reasons for your departure. 

Two weeks' notice best practices 

When preparing and delivering your formal notice, adhere to the following best practices for a smooth and professional transition: 

Select an appropriate delivery method 

If you can, tell your boss that you're quitting before you deliver your printed letter. You can do it face-to-face, on a video call, or over the phone. Talking directly with them shows respect. 

Thoroughly review your resignation letter 

Before you finish your resignation letter, go through it carefully to find and fix any grammar mistakes or typos. A resignation letter without mistakes shows that you pay attention to details. 

Choose an optimal time 

Select a good time to talk to your boss about quitting. Avoid busy or stressful times, and try to find a quiet and private place so they can listen better. 

Express appreciation 

Thank your company for the chances and experiences you had. Talk about the good parts of your time there to show how much you appreciate it. 

Extend a helping hand during the transition 

Show your commitment to making the switch easy by helping during the transition. This might include training the person replacing you, writing down how to do things, or giving important information. Your proactivity will ensure the responsibilities move smoothly to the next person. 

Specify your last working day 

Indicate the date of your last workday in your resignation letter to facilitate your employer's planning and minimise potential disruptions. 

Adhere to company protocols 

Follow the resignation procedures in your company's policies or employee handbook. Formally notify your manager and comply with established protocols. 

Anticipate responses and prepare  

Prepare for potential reactions from your employer. Approach the conversation with professionalism, openness, and a willingness to discuss your decision. 

Respect confidentiality guidelines 

If your resignation is confidential, maintain discretion in your communication. Inform your manager first and follow your company's confidentiality guidelines.  

By embracing these best practices, you can navigate the formal resignation process with professionalism and consideration for both your current employer and colleagues. 

Conclusion 

When you decide to leave your job, find out the notice period you need to give. Write a resignation letter and keep it professional, short, and positive. Think about how your workplace operates before deciding how to quit and tell your boss with respect and gratitude. To leave on good terms, consider speaking directly to your boss or offering assistance after you've resigned. Remember, a well-written professional resignation letter shows you're respectful and can help you get positive references later. 

Transitioning from one job to another is a natural part of your career. By approaching it thoughtfully and incorporating the tips in this guide, you contribute to a smoother process for everyone involved. For a helpful starting point, refer to resignation letter templates, including the one above.  

FAQs 

Here are answers to common questions about writing a resignation letter: 

1. Can I give less than two weeks' notice when resigning? 
   ⁠You can if you've worked at the company for less than two years. There may be situations where you can't provide the necessary notice period. It's advisable to communicate your circumstances to your employer and give as much notice as possible to facilitate a smooth transition process. 
2. Does a two-week notice have to be in writing? 
   ⁠Yes. According to the MOM, any notice of termination, either by you or your employer, must be in writing.  
3. How do you write a two-week notice for a job you hate? 
   ⁠Despite the circumstances, focus on maintaining professionalism in your resignation letter. Highlight positive aspects of your experience, convey appreciation, and keep the resignation letter brief. Avoid mentioning negative feelings or criticisms to leave on a constructive note. 
4. Should I include a reason for my departure in my resignation letter with two weeks' notice? 
   ⁠While it's not mandatory, providing a brief and positive reason for your departure can be beneficial. If the reason is sensitive or personal, you can choose to keep it private and simply demonstrate thankfulness for your time at the company. 
5. How should I close my resignation letter with two weeks' notice? 
   ⁠Close your resignation letter professionally with a formal closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards." If submitting a hard copy, sign it by hand. If sending it electronically, you can use a digital signature. Keep the closing respectful and maintain a positive tone.