Of course, you should also have a letter, which is the most important part of the formal resignation process, but it is good practice, as well as courteous, to tell your boss face-to-face.
Just be direct. Give them your resignation letter and tell them you're resigning and that your last day is in two weeks or whatever. It's been a great experience and thank them for the chance to work there, but it's time for you to move on.
Write a simple two sentence resignation letter addressed to your boss. In the first sentence, state that you are resigning your position. In the second sentence, state that your last day will be two weeks from the date of your letter. Print your letter on plain paper, sign it and copy it for your files.
Close and sign. Use proper formatting. Your letter should be written in a readable font with one-inch margins on all sides. Include the date and contact information. Include a salutation. State your intent to resign. Offer an explanation for why you are leaving. Offer your help. Express gratitude. Close and sign.
Many callers ask me whether it is true that they must give an employee two weeks' notice when they fire the employee. The answer often surprises these callers. There are absolutely no Illinois state laws or federal laws which require an employer to give any notice whatsoever to employees when they fire them.
Please consider this letter my official two weeks' notice of leave. I have enjoyed my time with the company but wish to pursue other opportunities for continued personal and professional growth. I thank you for the opportunities I was given here and wish you all continued success.
In most cases, it's appropriate to use both methods. For example, you could schedule a private conversation with your manager, hand them a printed letter, and follow up with a two weeks' notice email.
How to write a 2 weeks' notice letter. Date and recipient's address. List the date, the recipient's name, and the company address, whether you're handing them the letter via email or in person. Greeting. Resignation notice. Reason for resigning. Expression of gratitude. Offer of support. Signature.
Notice periods can range from one week up to a few months. However, you can determine the needed length of your notice period by considering variables like the state of your current projects, any contract you signed when starting work and the schedules of your coworkers.
Most companies may or may not want the two weeks, but it is good manners to give the two weeks. It helps you in your future jobs when they check your past performance, and they don't say you just left. If you just left there, why wouldn't you just leave your next job?