To Send, Or Not To Send Your Two Week Notice (Ft. A Template!)

It’s the hot topic of 2023: tech layoffs. With industry giants like Google, Yahoo and Zoom making headlines by blindsiding their employees with a “sorry, but bye – you’re fired.” It seems like the era (and etiquette) of a two week notice is a thing of the past.

So the question is: should employees still be giving their employers a two week heads up before quitting? Because if there’s anything these tech layoffs have brought to light, it’s the fact that that energy will likely not be reciprocated …and you bet your fellow Gen Zs and millennials have noticed. To be, or not to be, an “instant quitter” – where do you fall?

First Off: Do You Owe Your Employers a Two Week Notice?

Now what you might not know is that it is actually not a legal requirement to give your employers a two week notice before quitting – it’s an act of courtesy more than anything. However, this differs if you are under a contract with the company. It’s important that you double check. You do not want that drama.

While the temptation to strike back at the tech industry’s treatment of (now) ex-employees is real – if you’re eligible for unemployment benefits, you’d like a shining reference from your boss or you’re planning on making a comeback – definitely don’t skip sending that email at least two weeks before your last day.

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So What Should Your Two Week Notice Include?

If you do decide to be the bigger person (Congrats! We’re proud of you) Parallel is here to guide you on your journey to ‘dipping’! Here’s our pointers to include:

1. The date in which your resignation will take effect. Which should be two weeks from the date of your letter (or even earlier – the more notice you give, the nicer your letter of recommendation will likely be).

2. A brief explanation of your reasons for leaving if you choose to share them. (Totally optional, but don’t defeat the purpose of this letter which is to leave on “good terms”).

3. For brownie points include a line of gratitude re. the opportunity to work at the company and any positive experiences you have had.

4. An offer to assist with the transition of your responsibilities to a new employee or team member – they’ll love you for this.

5. Your personal contact information for any further questions or follow-up.

Thank Us Later: Parallel’s Template For Your Two Week Notice

"Dear [Manager's Name],

I am writing to inform you that I have decided to resign from my position as [Role] at [Company]. My last day of work will be [Date: at least two weeks from today].

I greatly appreciate the opportunity to work at [Company] and have learned a lot during my time here. During my time here, I have learned how to [What you have learned] and acquired skills like [List the skills] However, I have decided to pursue other opportunities that align more closely with my career goals.

Thank you for your support and guidance during my time here. I am happy to assist with the transition of my responsibilities in any way that I can. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to help.

I can be reached at [Your Email] or [Your Phone Number] if you have any further questions or need to follow up.

Sincerely, [Your Name]"

But Remember,

Your employers can beat you to the chase and fire you upon receiving your two week notice. So make sure you’re sure – and have your next steps in play before sending. A lil’ bit lost here? We got you! We have a mini guide on what to do after leaving a job or getting laid off …and don’t forget where you are right now! You’re on Parallel – where we hosts amazing jobs for candidates like you! Find out who is hiring and enter your ‘leveling up’ era now you’re soon-to-be free!