How to tell your boss you're quitting

Updated November 9, 2026

Tell your boss first, privately, in two sentences: you're leaving, and here is your last day. Then thank them and offer to help with the handover. In the US, two weeks is the standard notice period; elsewhere, follow your contract and local rules.

What to do

1. Have the offer in writing first. Don't resign until you have a signed offer and a confirmed start date.
2. Book a short private meeting. Ask for 15 minutes, in person or on video. Your boss should hear it from you before anyone else at work.
3. Lead with the news. Say it in the first sentence. No long buildup, no list of complaints.
4. Send a short letter right after. Email your resignation: your last day and a thank you. Nothing else needs to be in writing.
5. Decide on a counteroffer in advance. If more money would make you stay, you should have asked earlier. If not, say kindly that your decision is made.
6. Plan the handover. Write a list of your projects, their status and key contacts. Be ready in case they ask you to leave sooner than planned.

What to say

In the meeting, you can say:

Thanks for making the time. I wanted you to hear it from me first: I've accepted another offer, and my last day will be [date]. I've learned a lot here, especially from you. I'll make the handover as smooth as I can, and you'll have a list of my projects by [day].

Avoid

• Telling coworkers before your boss.
• Listing every reason you're unhappy.
• Coasting through your notice period: people remember how you leave.

Questions