Giving One Week Notice Instead Of Two: When and How To Do It

If you’re leaving your current position, you’ve probably already thought about how much notice you should give your employer. While two weeks has been the standard length of notice for many years, today’s employees often decide on giving a one week notice instead of two. 

A recent survey done by Clever Real Estate found that 49% of the 1,000 people surveyed only gave a one week’s notice or less when they left their jobs during the Great Resignation movement. This doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for you.

Knowing how and when a one week notice is acceptable will help you keep your professional relationships in good standing.

1 Week Notice Meaning

Giving a one-week notice means that you’re letting your current employer know in writing that you are planning to leave your job in seven days. 

While you have the right to legally leave your position at any time, giving your boss notice is a professional courtesy. It provides your employer with enough time to find someone new to take over your responsibilities. The length of your notice can be determined by many factors.

Is It OK to Only Give One Week Notice?

There are a few exceptions as to when a one-week notice will do. 

If you have a contract that specifies how much notice you have to give before leaving, you have to abide by it. If you don’t do as the contract states, there could be penalties. This could be something like a loss of pay for your sick days, personal days, or vacation time. 

Regardless of how much notice you give, no employer can legally refuse to pay you for the time you have already worked. If you’re a public employee, you risk losing your license or certification if you don’t give long enough notice. 

Leaving without notice in these situations is also considered a contract violation.

How Can I Shorten My Notice Period?

There are specific situations where your employer will understand the need for a one-week notice.

Illness or Emergencies

When you have a family or personal illness or emergency, give your employer as much notice as possible. They’ll understand that these are unexpected situations and that it’s not possible to give a full two weeks’ notice.

Unsafe Working Conditions

If you feel like your job is unsafe or you feel uncomfortable at work, discuss the situation with your employer. If your employer doesn’t address your concerns, one week’s notice is more than acceptable.

Starting a New Job Immediately

You could find yourself in a situation where you’ve found your dream job, but they need someone who can start immediately. When this happens, try your best to negotiate with the prospective employer for at least one week in order to give your current boss sufficient notice. They may commend your commitment to an employer.

Leaving an Easy-to-Fill Position

Unskilled jobs often only need a one-week notice. These jobs are easier to fill. Use your best judgment according to your area’s employment rate.

Read More: How To Survive Two Weeks Notice: 4 Tips To Get You Through  

When a One Week’s Notice Won’t Do

You’ll find a few jobs where a one-week notice isn’t suitable.

Management Positions

Two weeks, or even a full month, should be given for any management position. Finding a replacement takes longer when the position requires experience and expertise or has educational requirements. 

A longer notice gives your employer more time to find a suitable replacement, and you’ll be leaving on friendly terms.

When Building a Professional Network

If building a professional network is crucial to your career, always give 2-week notice. Otherwise, your employer may see giving less notice as unprofessional. This can hurt your chances when it comes to future job opportunities. 

By giving a full two-week notice, you’ll be able to leave on a positive note and know you can count on your previous employer as a good reference.

When You Know in Advance That You’re Leaving

If you’ll be leaving your position due to an upcoming event such as college or retirement, notify your boss as soon as possible. They know that these types of decisions aren’t made in one week. Even two weeks can make them feel like you are keeping this information from them.

How to Give a One Week Notice

When giving a one week notice instead of two, the first thing you need to do is decide exactly which day will be your last. You then need to write a one week notice resignation email or letter.

Address it to your immediate supervisor. Be direct when explaining why you’re leaving and include the date of your last day. Keep it brief and professional, and be sure to thank them for your training and the time you spent with them.

Provide them with the reason why you are leaving. Phrase it in a way that makes it sound like a positive opportunity for your future rather than a negative attitude towards your employer and co-workers. Sign and date your letter.

Unless an illness prevents it, avoid a 1 week notice email if possible. It’s always best to deliver a letter of resignation by hand. When you turn it in, be ready to discuss your situation. Your supervisor should always be the first to know about your plans. Tell your co-workers after you’ve formally given your one-week notice.

Offer to help with finding a replacement or training someone. You’ll also want to promise to finish any projects you’re in the middle of.

Most importantly, don’t forget to thank them, especially if you’ve received any training that you’ll benefit from.

1 Week Notice Email Examples

Example 1: One week notice due to illness

Example 2: One week notice due to unsafe working conditions

Example 3: One week notice due to starting a new job immediately

7 Days Notice Resignation Letter

Here is an example of a short notice resignation letter for personal reason:

Conclusion

Giving a one week notice instead of two will be perfectly acceptable if you follow this advice. You don’t want to burn any bridges as you leave your current position. Stay positive, thankful, and helpful, and your one-week notice will be a success.