Starting a new job is often accompanied by a mix of excitement and nerves. However, sometimes, the reality of the job doesn’t match your expectations, or circumstances change, leading you to consider quitting. It’s important to approach this situation thoughtfully, understanding the potential impacts on your career and reputation.
We will guide you through the process of leaving a new job, highlighting both good and bad reasons for making such a decision and how to send a professional resignation letter to your supervisor.
Good reasons to quit a job you just started
- Misrepresented job role: If the job significantly differs from what was described during the interview, it’s reasonable to reconsider your position. Misalignment between expectations and the actual role can lead to dissatisfaction and underperformance.
- Toxic work environment: A hostile or unhealthy work environment is a valid reason to leave. If you experience or witness bullying, harassment, or unethical practices, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being.
- Unexpected life changes: Sometimes, personal circumstances, like a family emergency or health issues, necessitate a sudden career change. Employers generally understand these uncontrollable life events.
- Better opportunity: Occasionally, a more suitable opportunity arises shortly after starting a new job. If this unique opportunity aligns better with your long-term career goals, it may be worth considering.
- Lack of growth potential: If it becomes clear early on that there are limited opportunities for professional growth or advancement, looking for a job that offers better prospects is understandable.
Bad reasons to quit a job you just started
- Minor annoyances: It’s normal to face adjustments and challenges in a new role. Quitting due to minor inconveniences or a short adjustment period can poorly reflect your professional resilience.
- Impulse decisions: Quitting on a whim, without giving yourself time to adapt to the new role or environment, can be a hasty decision you might regret later.
- Peer influence: Decisions about your career should be based on your own experiences and goals, not influenced by friends or colleagues who may have different priorities.
- Perfectionism: No job is perfect. Leaving a role because it doesn’t meet unrealistically high expectations can lead to a pattern of job-hopping, which is often frowned upon by employers.
- Unwillingness to learn: New jobs often require learning and adaptation. Quitting because you’re reluctant to learn new skills or adapt to new processes can hinder your professional growth.
The importance of formally quitting a job you just began
Formally quitting a job you’ve just started is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it maintains your professional integrity and reputation. How you leave a job can leave a lasting impression on your employer and colleagues, impacting future job prospects and references. Secondly, a formal resignation offers precise and respectful communication of your intentions, allowing your employer to make necessary adjustments or begin finding a replacement.
Additionally, formally handling the resignation process helps maintain positive relationships within the industry, which could benefit networking and future career opportunities. It also ensures that you leave on good terms, allowing for the possibility of returning to the organization under different circumstances. Lastly, a formal resignation can provide closure for you and the employer, enabling a smooth transition and reducing potential misunderstandings or conflicts.
How to quit a job you just started
Reflect on your decision
Before making any moves, it’s essential to thoroughly evaluate your reasons for wanting to leave. Consider whether your reasons are due to short-term challenges that might improve over time or if they are fundamental issues with the job or company. It’s also important to think about the potential consequences quitting might have on your career trajectory and reputation.
Plan your resignation
Choose an appropriate time to resign, ideally avoiding critical business periods. Prepare a professional resignation letter clearly and respectfully communicating your decision to leave.
Communicate with your employer
Request a private meeting with your supervisor to discuss your resignation. In this meeting, be honest about your reasons for leaving, but do so in a respectful manner that avoids unnecessary criticism of the job, your colleagues, or the company.
Offer a transition period
Offer a reasonable notice period to help your employer adjust to your departure. During this time, assist in training your replacement or handing over your responsibilities to facilitate a smooth transition.
Handle the administrative details
Discuss and clarify any final paycheck details and how benefits will be handled. Return any company-owned property, such as laptops, badges, or important documents.
Maintain professionalism
Until your last day, continue to perform your duties responsibly and maintain a professional demeanor. Strive to leave on good terms by expressing gratitude for the opportunity and the experiences you’ve gained. This approach helps preserve valuable professional relationships and maintain a positive reputation in your industry.
What to include in an email about quitting a job you just started
When drafting an email to quit a job you’ve recently started, it’s crucial to convey your message clearly, professionally, and respectfully. Here are the key elements to include:
Subject line
Choose a clear and straightforward subject line, such as “Notice of Resignation – [Your Name].”
Greeting
Address the email to your direct supervisor or the appropriate person in charge of HR matters.
Statement of resignation
Start with a direct statement of your intention to resign, ideally mentioning the effective date of your resignation.
Reason for leaving
Briefly explain why you are leaving, focusing on the facts and keeping the tone positive and professional.
Expression of gratitude
Thank your employer for the opportunity, even if your time with the company was brief. Highlight any positive experiences or learnings.
Offer to assist with the transition
Indicate your willingness to help with the transition, whether training a replacement or completing specific tasks before you leave.
Closing remarks
End the email with a polite closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name.
What to omit in an email about quitting a job you just began
- Negative comments: Refrain from including negative comments about the company, your colleagues, or your experience. It’s important to keep the tone positive or neutral.
- Overly detailed reasons: While mentioning why you’re leaving is appropriate, avoid going into excessive detail, especially if it involves criticism or personal grievances.
- Emotional language: Keep the tone professional and avoid using emotionally charged language. This helps in keeping the focus on the facts rather than personal feelings.
Sample emails for quitting a job you just started
Example 1: Professional and direct
Subject: Notice of Resignation – [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to formally announce my resignation as [Your Position], effective [two weeks from today’s date].
This decision has been challenging and comes after carefully considering my career goals and personal circumstances. While my time with [Company Name] has been short, I have gained valuable insights and experiences for which I am truly grateful.
I assure you that my decision to leave does not reflect the company or the team. Instead, it’s a step toward aligning my career path with my long-term professional objectives.
I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am more than willing to assist in any way I can during my remaining time. Please let me know how I can help, whether training my replacement or wrapping up any current projects.
Thank you for the opportunity to work with [Company Name]. I plan to maintain a positive professional relationship moving forward.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Example 2: Brief and courteous
Subject: Resignation – Effective [Date]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position as [Your Position] with [Company Name], effective [two weeks from today’s date].
Though brief, I have appreciated the opportunities for professional development and growth during my time here. However, after much consideration, I have decided to pursue a different direction in my career that aligns more closely with my long-term goals.
I am committed to making my departure as smooth as possible and am available to assist in the transition process in any way needed.
Thank you for understanding and for the opportunity to join the [Company Name] team.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]